Sudden Vision Distortions: Seeking Answers and Treatment

Q: Sudden Vision Distortions: Seeking Answers and Treatment

Hello： I suggest you visit the ophthalmology department at a medical center for an examination. <br>Some types of strabismus require special tests for easier detection. <br>(PS. <br>I currently do not have outpatient services at Yang Ming/Chung Shan Medical University.)

Sudden changes in vision. Seeking clarification and medical solutions?

Hello Dr.
Wang,
About a week ago, I suddenly noticed that there were lines appearing in the parallel lines of the TV cabinet and ceiling in my living room.
There was a line below that tilted to the right.
The square tiles also had lines that slanted down to the right.
The center line of the road outside also showed overlapping phenomena, and each line of the crosswalk slanted down to the right.
Sometimes it would return to normal in about a second, and other times it took 3 to 5 seconds to recover.
This was quite alarming.
I immediately went to a nearby ophthalmology clinic.
The doctor initially suggested that it might be macular degeneration, but was not certain.
I needed to use eye drops to dilate my pupils for a clearer examination, which I complied with.
The examination results indicated that there were no issues with my eyes, possibly due to aging.
However, it would take 6 hours for my vision to return to normal.
The problem was not resolved, and my symptoms persisted.
My eyes still felt very uncomfortable, and there was significant pressure.
I needed assistance to walk safely, which left me feeling very anxious and troubled.
The next day, I visited the Far Eastern Clinic in Taipei for further examination.
After a careful look, the doctor also said there were no issues with my eyes! However, he mentioned that my optic nerve might be weaker and suggested taking vitamin B complex supplements, asking me to return for a follow-up in three weeks.
I am very troubled by why, despite having no eye problems, I still see slanted, overlapping, and unbalanced visual distortions that are very uncomfortable.

Could you please tell me if my symptoms are related to the optic nerve? Should I see a neurologist? I do not feel that I have any issues in that regard.
Additionally, can taking vitamin B complex really help treat my eye symptoms? Both doctors only prescribed a bottle of eye drops to relieve fatigue, but my symptoms and concerns remain unaddressed.
It feels like seeing them was pointless, which is very frustrating and disheartening.
I am at a loss as to how to help myself.

I appreciate the dedication and medical expertise of your institution and hope you can provide some guidance.
Thank you in advance for your help!
April 28, 2016
P.S.
Is Dr.
Wang still practicing at Yang Ming Hospital or Taipei Veterans General Hospital?

Lai Weng, 70~79 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/04/29

Dr. Wang Zhishun reply Ophthalmology

Hello: I suggest you visit the ophthalmology department at a medical center for an examination.
Some types of strabismus require special tests for easier detection.
(PS.
I currently do not have outpatient services at Yang Ming/Chung Shan Medical University.)

Reply Date: 2016/04/29

More Info

Dear Patient,
Thank you for sharing your concerns regarding the sudden vision distortions you have been experiencing. Your symptoms, including the appearance of slanted lines and overlapping images, can indeed be distressing and warrant a thorough evaluation.

Based on your description, it seems you are experiencing visual distortions that could be related to several underlying issues. The fact that these distortions appear intermittently and can last from one to several seconds suggests that they may not be solely related to a structural problem in the eye, especially since your initial examinations did not reveal any significant ocular pathology.
One possible explanation for your symptoms could be related to a condition known as metamorphopsia, which is characterized by visual distortions, such as straight lines appearing wavy or slanted. This condition is often associated with macular issues, including age-related macular degeneration or macular edema. However, since your eye examinations have not indicated any significant problems with the retina or macula, it may be prudent to consider other factors.

Another potential cause could be related to neurological issues. The brain plays a crucial role in processing visual information, and disturbances in this processing can lead to visual distortions. Conditions such as visual migraines or transient ischemic attacks (TIAs) can cause temporary visual disturbances, although these are typically accompanied by other symptoms. Given that your symptoms have persisted despite normal eye examinations, it may be beneficial to consult a neurologist for further evaluation. They can conduct tests to rule out any neurological conditions that might be contributing to your visual symptoms.

Regarding the suggestion to take vitamin B supplements, while B vitamins are essential for overall health and can support nerve function, there is limited evidence to suggest that they would directly alleviate your specific visual symptoms. However, if you have been experiencing fatigue or other symptoms that could be related to a deficiency, it may be worth discussing with your healthcare provider.

In the meantime, here are some strategies that may help manage your symptoms:
1. Visual Rest: Ensure you take regular breaks from screens and reading to reduce eye strain. The 20-20-20 rule is a good guideline: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds.

2. Hydration and Nutrition: Staying hydrated and maintaining a balanced diet rich in antioxidants (such as leafy greens, fruits, and omega-3 fatty acids) can support eye health.

3. Eye Exercises: Simple eye exercises can help reduce strain. For example, focusing on a distant object for a few seconds can help relax the eye muscles.

4. Follow-Up: Since your symptoms have not improved, it is essential to follow up with your healthcare providers. If you feel that your concerns are not being adequately addressed, seeking a second opinion from a specialist in neuro-ophthalmology may provide further insights.

5. Monitor Symptoms: Keep a detailed log of your symptoms, noting when they occur, their duration, and any accompanying factors (such as fatigue or stress). This information can be invaluable for your healthcare provider in diagnosing the issue.

In conclusion, while your eye examinations have not revealed any significant issues, the persistence of your symptoms suggests that further investigation may be warranted. Consulting with a neurologist could provide additional insights into the potential neurological aspects of your condition. Remember, it is essential to advocate for your health and seek the care that you feel is necessary.

Best wishes for your health and well-being. Please do not hesitate to reach out if you have further questions or concerns.

Sincerely,
Doctor Q&A Teams

Similar Q&A

Understanding Sudden Visual Disturbances: Causes and Solutions

Hello Doctor: Recently, I have experienced sudden episodes of blurred vision around my eyes, which clear up on their own within ten minutes. The "blurred" sensation I refer to is not a white fog, but rather a transparent ripple effect, as if I am seeing through water, m...

Dr. He Jianxian reply Ophthalmology
Hello, Miss: Thank you for your inquiry. I would like to address your question and provide the following advice: Your symptoms appear to resemble a type of migraine (not all migraines necessarily present with headache), characterized by visual disturbances in the eye, which can r...

Understanding Blurry Vision and Visual Disturbances: Possible Causes and Solutions

Hello, doctor. My work environment primarily involves using a computer, monitoring screens, and wearing safety glasses. Due to the pandemic over the past two years, plastic sheets have been installed in the office and break room, which are not very transparent and create a narrow...

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology
Hello: Based on your description, it may be related to the eye's accommodative ability, which could indicate early symptoms of presbyopia. If there is a difference in the prescription between your two eyes, one eye may be more affected than the other. I recommend that you se...

Understanding Visual Disturbances: Causes and Potential Treatments

Hello, Director Yeh: Recently, I have noticed a sensation of movement when looking at things, particularly evident with the following: 1. The text and images on my computer screen (the higher the contrast, the more pronounced it is); 2. Static electronic billboards with scrollin...

Dr. Ye Boshou reply Neurology
Hello: That is poor coordination; do not focus your gaze for too long. Look at distant objects more often. If there are any issues, consult a neurologist.

Understanding Visual Disturbances After Waking: Causes and Solutions

Dr. Gao: Hello! I have some vision problems, and I would like your advice. I am sixty-one years old. I have had amblyopia in my left eye since childhood, and now I have hyperopia and presbyopia in my right eye. Twenty years ago, I experienced severe hypertension that led to retin...

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology
Hello: Based on your situation, it is possible that there is an issue with the macula. I recommend that you visit an ophthalmologist for a detailed examination as soon as possible. Only after reviewing the results of the examination can we determine the appropriate treatment dire...