Atypical causes of "flashers"?

[t2oo5]

Im a 22yo male, slightly near sighted (I think my glasses prescription is on the order of 1.50), who has been experiencing "flashes" of light for the past 2-3 yrs. Optometrist failed to find any pathology, but recently, my opthamologist found something unusual: a small tear in my right retina that is far in the periphery and "stable". He wants to see me in three weeks to decide whether or not to do laser therapy.

Here is my issue: I am questioning whether or not my symptoms are arising from this tear because my experience of "flashes" have been different than what "typical symptoms" seem to be.

My flashes appear like this: If I were to enter a dim room, and stare at a wall, I would see relatively small dots illuminate and then go away. The best way I can describe them is this: if one were to look at a very bright light, then look away and blink...you know how you can still see the light? Well, that's what my "flashes" look like. They're small, well defined, and look like these "sun" spots. They appear for about 15seconds then go away. I have a few of them that seem to stay in the same visual location and they come and go very frequently (but mainly noticeable in dim lighting). Moreover, I can still see them if I close my eyes, so I can't tell what eye they are coming from. Finally, one day, I had one episode that persisted throughout the whole day and went away the next day.

My opthamologist told me that typically, flashes associated with retinal tears are more like lightening bolts.

So, what are some atypical causes of flashes that would be worth looking into? Or, do you think my flashes can be explained by this small retinal tear.

Also, I don't know if this is relevant at all, but I have a lot of floaters that developed slowly over time. My opthamologist said that they are "atypical" but nothing to worry about. He said my vitreous is not liquefying, but it was unusual to have so many floaters at a young age.

Thanks so much in advance for your advice!

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

If something changes or something new develops return to your Eye MD promptly for a reevaluation

JCH MD

[t2oo5]

Dr. Hagan,
   Thanks for the prompt reply. Does this type of condition warrant any type of followup?

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

You description suggests an entopic phenomena know as "phosphene" that can be generated by the pressure of blinking or rapid movement of eye or head

JCH MD