[39F] With sudden increase in eye floaters and sharp eye pain post-injury

Patient Description

A 39-year-old female has experienced a sudden increase in small dot-like floaters in her vision, accompanied by an inability to see out of the affected eye. These symptoms began following a recent eye injury. The patient reports sharp pains above the eye and temple, with a pain severity of 7 out of 10. The headaches associated with the eye pain come and go without any identifiable triggers. The patient denies experiencing flashes of light or a shadow/curtain effect in her vision. There are no recent changes in overall health or new medical conditions reported. The patient is advised to seek immediate medical attention due to the sudden onset and severity of symptoms, especially considering the recent eye trauma.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, there are a few possibilities to consider:

  1. Retinal Detachment: Given your history of retinal detachment surgery, the sudden increase in floaters, eye pain, and loss of vision in the affected eye are concerning for a possible retinal detachment. This is a serious condition where the retina pulls away from its normal position, and it requires immediate medical attention to prevent permanent vision loss.

  2. Posterior Vitreous Detachment (PVD): This occurs when the gel-like substance in the eye shrinks and pulls away from the retina. While PVD itself is not usually serious, it can sometimes lead to retinal tears or detachment, especially if you have a history of retinal issues.

  3. Migraine with Aura: Although less likely given your symptoms, migraines can sometimes cause visual disturbances and eye pain. However, the loss of vision in one eye is more concerning for a retinal issue.

It's crucial to seek immediate medical attention from an eye specialist to determine the exact cause and receive appropriate treatment.

What you can do

  1. Seek Immediate Medical Attention: Contact an eye specialist or go to the emergency room as soon as possible. Retinal detachment is a medical emergency, and prompt treatment is essential to prevent permanent vision loss.

  2. Avoid Strenuous Activities: Until you receive medical evaluation, try to avoid activities that could potentially worsen your symptoms, such as heavy lifting or vigorous exercise.

  3. Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of any changes in your symptoms, such as an increase in floaters, flashes of light, or further loss of vision, and report these to your healthcare provider.

  4. Stay Calm: While it's natural to feel anxious, try to stay calm and focus on getting the medical care you need.

Remember, only a healthcare professional can provide a formal diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Please prioritize seeking care immediately.

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1 mo ago

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People Also Ask


What are floaters in the eye and why do they occur?

Floaters are small, shadowy shapes that appear in your field of vision. They are caused by tiny clumps of gel or cells inside the vitreous, the clear gel-like substance that fills the inside of your eye. As we age, the vitreous can shrink and form clumps, casting shadows on the retina.


What is retinal detachment and why is it considered an emergency?

Retinal detachment occurs when the retina, a thin layer of tissue at the back of the eye, pulls away from its normal position. It is considered an emergency because it can lead to permanent vision loss if not treated promptly. Symptoms include a sudden increase in floaters, flashes of light, or a shadow over the field of vision.


Can an eye injury lead to serious conditions like retinal detachment?

Yes, an eye injury can lead to serious conditions like retinal detachment, especially if there is a history of retinal issues. Trauma can cause the retina to tear or detach, which requires immediate medical attention to prevent vision loss.


What should I do if I experience sudden vision changes or eye pain?

If you experience sudden vision changes or eye pain, it is crucial to seek immediate medical attention from an eye specialist. These symptoms could indicate a serious condition like retinal detachment, which requires prompt treatment to prevent permanent damage.


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