Flashes and Floaters

[lams333]

My Mom was in her car (parked) and was reaching for something behind her far away in the back seat. She said she was straining to reach it and was really straining her eyes to one side (i.e looking drastically right) to see it.  When she came back to sit up right , she complained of some really bad bright flashes that continued for some time. Bad enough that she was concerned about it that night. I think this was also immediately followed by floaters as well. She says its better, but its not totally gone (mainly referring to the floaters).

She's thinking they will go away with some time, good sleep , and vitamins. Those are nice , but I think its wired enough that I would like her to go in to get it checked out. What tests does she need to request, what should she say?

What likely happened and whats going on?

Thanks !

[lams333]

Thanks for feedback , this helps.

[Flavius G Pernoud III, MD]

Your mom is probably suffering from posterior vitreous detachment, a common aging phenomenon in which the vitreous gel is shrinking. At some point usually between age 55 and 70, the gel suddenly pulls away from the retina causing the flashes and floaters. Most are benign but this can be the start of a retinal tear and subsequent retinal detachment. Your mom needs a dilated retinal exam by an ophthalmologist, and Eye MD soon. I would call tomorrow before the weekend.