Sound Phosphenes

[stevie_wonder]

I have Long QT Syndrome Type 2. It has arrythmias induced by stress, rest and loud or sudden noises. I have noticed for the past three years or so that sometimes when I am falling asleep and hear a sudden noise, I will see a patterned flash of light. It only happens when my eyes are closed and I am in the dark. The flash is very short-lived and is patterened almost like a zebra. My 18 year old daughter has also has the same thing for the past few years as well. Is this something related to the eyes or could it be an electrical impulse sending the light and is more connected to the Long QT Syndrome? I am from rural Canada and our doctor consults doctors from out of the country regarding our LQTS. He said that he will try to find out answers for us.
Thank you

[John C Hagan III, MD, FACS, FAAO]

I suspect your problem is not MS nor related to long QT and is a form of entopic phenomenon related to sudden movement of the head or eyes with a highly senstive retina because of dark adaptation.  Remember that the dark adapted retina is 1000X more sensitive to generating impulses from light OR PRESSURE than in the light adapted state.

In one form or another your complaint/observation is repeatedly asked in these two AAO eye care forums.

JCH III MD

[stevie_wonder]

Yes, MS has been mentioned to me. But the one related to MS is usually accompanied by Optic Neuritis (sp?) and the phosphenes are usually star-like shapes and last only a few months. Mine and my daughters have been happening for years. But thanks for mentioning it. It is always in the back of mind that maybe we do have MS and I have also recently been having muscle cramps, but this is thought to be due to my electrolyte levels.... but it does make one wonder.

[jeffrey70]

not meaning to alarm you, but have you read anything about MS? that is one of the distinguishing features