Retinal hole

[Gremlin55]

I began seeing light flashes out of the outer corner of my right eye 1 week ago when I am in a dark or low lit room. I have also noticed more floaters, and web looking things during the day. I saw my ophthalmologist 4 days ago. After dilating and examining, he said I have a retinal hole and referred me to a retinal specialist. He said there is no emergency, it is not a detachment, and the specialist may not even repair it. I do not see this specialist for 2 more weeks. Is this normal. Everything I have read on the internet seems like more prompt attention should be given?    

[Ray T Oyakawa, MD]

The flashes are not related to retinal holes.  They do not need to be treated.   Flashes of light are not related to retinal holes.  They are related to acute horseshoes tears which needs to be treated ASAP.

Dr. O.

[BostonSue]

Are you in an area that has a number of retina specialists? Can you be seen more quickly by someone else?
Did you get the specialist to call you back and assure you that the hole will not tear or detach  and that you can afford to wait the two weeks or did you just talk with the receptionist?
I would be be kind of nervous about waiting the two weeks.
sometimes it pays to be a bit of a pain in the butt when it comes to your health and esp your vision.
I had the flashes of light for some time before I developed two tears. I put off seeing anyone. I am quite sure a little judicious lasering might have prevented the tears and the subsequent scleral buckle, vitrectomy, and pneumatic retinopexy that I just had. I wish I had seen a specialist if only to be told ' don't worry", then I would not feel like 'if only'.
You are your own best advocate.
Boston Sue

[AppleBr]

Any new facts, call your doctor soon

[AppleBr]

Since your ophtalmo said is not urgent, (if you trust him) relax a little bit but not too much. Better go to the retinal specialist and hear that from him - its always expensive but good sleep nights have no price, as well as your vision. Luck!