Why did my heart beat make the numbers on the screen look like ripples in water?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on a phenomenon where an individual experiences visual distortions, specifically seeing numbers on an LED display appear to ripple in sync with their heartbeat. This effect occurred twice while the individual was at a coffee shop, prompting concerns about its cause. Responses indicate that this visual distortion may be linked to eye movement and the flicker of LED lights, which can create unusual visual perceptions. It is emphasized that such experiences are not uncommon and typically do not indicate serious health issues unless they recur frequently.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of visual perception and optical illusions
  • Basic knowledge of human physiology, particularly the cardiovascular system
  • Familiarity with LED technology and its characteristics
  • Awareness of common neurological phenomena related to vision
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  • Research the effects of eye movement on visual perception
  • Explore the science behind LED flicker and its impact on vision
  • Investigate common neurological conditions that cause visual distortions
  • Learn about the relationship between heart rate and visual perception
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This discussion is beneficial for individuals experiencing unusual visual phenomena, psychologists, neurologists, and anyone interested in the intersection of physiology and perception.

rigganator
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Hey guys,

That's my first post here, and I couldn't find any other place online where I can ask something like that and get rational scientific explanation. Here's what happened to me today and I have no idea what would cause it.

I went to a coffee shop in afternoon to take a break from work. While I was standing in line I started to look at the electronic LED display on cashier's machine where shows how much you need to pay. Out of nowhere I start feeling my heart beat and the numbers on the screen start looking like a drop hitting a still water with each heart beat. It happened 2 times in a row. Then I shook my head off, then I looked at it again, it happened one more time and it stopped. I don't have any weird sicknesses, mental illness, and I don't do any drugs. Just went through a cold about a week ago.

Honestly it does not make any sense to me, and it freaks the crap out of me. I hope it will never happen again, but still I'm trying to find any reasonable explanation to something like that.

Any good feedback would be greatly appreciated,
Thanks!
 
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Were you taking any sort of cold medicine or remedies?

Any other symptoms before or after this event occurred?

Did you have a true migraine later that day?
 
It may have been an effect of eye movement. Despite what your brain makes you think, your eyes are never still; they jitter about constantly. Occasionally this can produce some strange effects, especially in conjunction with certain types of lights that have their own flicker.

Long and short of it: it's not uncommon. I would not fret about it, unless it starts recurring on a regular basis.
 

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