Are symptoms related to tears in my retinas?

Mom of 5 asked...

I have been told that I have small tears in my retinas and this is what is causing the flashes of light that I see. I also have noticed that when I cover one eye and look intently at the wall or ceiling, my vision seems to go dark grey. The second that I move my looking eye, it's back to normal again it doesn't seem to happen when I am in a well lit area, like outside. I am trying to figure out if these symptoms are connected with the other ones or if this is a new concern. I also have underactive thyroid.

Expert Answer

Lylas Mogk, M.D. is an ophthalmologist and director of the Henry Ford Visual Rehabilitation and Research Center in Grosse Pointe and Livonia, Michigan, and the author of Macular Degeneration: The Complete Guide to Saving and Maximizing Your Sight.

You should see your ophthalmologist immediately if there is any possibility that you have a tear or tears in your retina, of any size. Occasional flashes can be caused by traction on the retina, which is not harmful if it does not produce a tear, but if there is a tear it needs to be treated.