Questions about fllash

[nygrl]

Hi, i had laser to repair a small retinal tear on tues. I have been so careful not to lift or bend a lot. I even walk carefully because I am terrified of causing an issue. last night I was playing a board game and looking back and forth between the game the the spinner and I saw kind of a flash, I think it was in the eye that was fixed, and it seemed to stay there for a minute and I blinked a little and it was gone.  I have no loss of vision, new floaters, etc. I have flashes periodically but this one scared me a little. Maybe I just noticed it more because I am so paranoid. I am literally a basket case..afraid to look around or do anything.  I'm afraid that I am never goign to be able to do anythign for the rest of my life. Anyway, should I be concerned and call my dr on a saturday or just not worry? My syptoms that brought me to the dr initally were some new floaters, not flashes. Any advice from the Dr's? Mine acted like the tear was no big deal and siad he didn't expect any complications. He didn't limit me from much, he said no crazy stuff like trying to flip mattresses or anything. Thanks.

[nygrl]

Thanks Dr O. I know you don't usually answer follow-ups but how does one tell the diference between a "normal" flash and one to be concerned about?

Thanks.

[Ray T Oyakawa, MD]

Flashes can occur for some time.  It should be ok.

Dr. O.