Posterior Vitreous Detachment (PVD) |
As the vitreous humor liquefies with age, it can pull away from the retina, causing flashes (photopsia) and floaters.
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- Sudden onset of floaters (gray or black spots, cobwebs)
- Flashes of light, especially in peripheral vision
- Often painless and affects one eye initially
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- Observation if no retinal tear is present
- Regular follow-up with an ophthalmologist
- Retinal examination to rule out retinal detachment
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Retinal Detachment |
Separation of the retina from the underlying retinal pigment epithelium, often following PVD or trauma.
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- Flashes of light (photopsia)
- Floaters
- Shadow or curtain effect over part of the visual field
- Sudden vision loss in the affected area
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- Immediate referral to an ophthalmologist
- Surgical intervention (e.g., pneumatic retinopexy, scleral buckle, or vitrectomy)
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Ocular Migraines |
Vasospasm in the retinal or occipital blood vessels causes visual disturbances, including flashes or zigzag patterns.
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- Transient visual disturbances (aura)
- Flashes of light (scintillations), zigzag lines
- Often followed by a headache (in migraine with aura)
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- Rest and hydration
- Abortive medications (e.g., triptans for migraine)
- Preventive medications in recurrent cases
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Vitreous Hemorrhage |
Bleeding into the vitreous humor, often caused by trauma, diabetic retinopathy, or retinal tear.
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- Sudden onset of floaters (often dark or red spots)
- Blurred vision
- May present with flashes
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- Immediate ophthalmologic evaluation
- Bed rest with the head elevated
- Vitrectomy in severe cases
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Retinal Tear or Break |
A full-thickness break in the retina, often following PVD, which may lead to retinal detachment if untreated.
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- Flashes of light
- New floaters
- May progress to retinal detachment if not treated
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- Laser photocoagulation or cryotherapy to seal the tear
- Close follow-up to monitor for detachment
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Uveitis |
Inflammation of the uveal tract (iris, ciliary body, choroid) that can lead to floaters or flashes if the retina is involved.
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- Blurred vision
- Photophobia (light sensitivity)
- Floaters
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- Topical or systemic corticosteroids
- Treat underlying cause (e.g., infection, autoimmune condition)
- Mydriatic drops to prevent synechiae
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Trauma (Blunt or Penetrating) |
Trauma to the eye can cause vitreous hemorrhage, retinal tears, or detachment, leading to flashes and floaters.
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- Flashes or floaters after injury
- Reduced vision
- Pain and redness depending on severity
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- Immediate ophthalmologic evaluation
- Surgical repair if there is retinal damage
- Observation for progression of symptoms
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