I'm seeing a permanent brightness - almost like I've been staring at a bright light

[James_32]

I've been experiencing a very strange problem with my vision. The best way I can describe it is this - it's as if I've looked at a bright light, then looked away but I haven't, and it's pretty much there all the time. Some times it's more noticeable than others. When I close my eyes it's also brighter than it was before. I've had to turn down the brightness on my pc screen and Kindle. Also when I blink repeatedly, it's like flashing lights are in my eyes.

I went to A&E, got referred to an eye specialist and they said there's absolutely no problem with my eyes and that it might be an issue with the central nervous system behind the eyes. I can't seem to find anything on the net with others complaining of this problem.

Has anyone experienced anything similar? Maybe it's just a very long type of migraine that won't go away. I'm hoping it will just fade in time.

[CBCT]

Hi James,
What type of eye specialist did you see and what type of tests were conducted?  The suggestion that it may be an issue with the central nervous system behind the eyes is quite vague.  Can you get a referral to a Medical Doctor retinal specialist?  They use diagnostic testing like OCT, and perform specialized retinal examinations.  Best wishes.

[JohnHaganMD]

I would suggest you try and get to see a special type of ophthalmologist called a neuro-ophthalmologist. You likely need some tests including Amsler grid, color testing, visual field,  and macular OCT.  A migraine will not persist for a week or more.

[James_32]

Thanks for the replies. I think it was a regular ophthalmologist. He diluted my pupils and I looked into a very bright light as he looked a the back of my eye and told me my eyes were fine, and that he wasn't familiar with my symptoms. He suggested I go to my doctors to get referred to a neurologist as it was more an issue with the brain. Curiously it looks like they do have neuro-opthalmogists at that hospital though - would a referral have to come from my doctor? Do these come under neurologists?

[JohnHaganMD]

I have no idea how your insurance and your health system works for referrals. Most times neuro-ophthalmologists are in the department of ophthalmology not neurology. It's possible the "regular ophthalmologist" might be willing to refer you especially if you're no better or worse.