If I don't have a retinal tear/detachment or PVD, what is the reason I have these flashes and floaters from an eye poke?
APR 12, 2015
Question:
I got poked in the eye playing basketball and noticed peripheral flashes and floaters (small grey shadow) in the evening. I went to see an ophthalmologist and retina specialist the next day. Both said I do not have retinal tear/detachment or posterior vitreous detachment (or PVD, when the gel in the middle of the eye shrinks and separates from the back of the eye). My question is if I don't have a retinal tear/detachment or PVD, what is the reason I have these flashes and floaters from an eye poke? My second question, will it go away?
Answer:
You are correct that the greatest concern when one notes flashes and floaters after being poked in the eye would be a retinal tear/detachment or a PVD. In their absence, you may just be experiencing vitreous traction on the peripheral retina, or what could be called an impending PVD. If the symptoms are persisting, I encourage a repeat examination. Flashes of light will usually resolve and floaters will often diminish, but some floaters may now be permanent.