Retinal issues - seeing black spots when blinking?
Hello, Doctor.
I have a prescription of -7.00 diopters for my myopia.
Recently, I noticed that when I blink, I see a small black dot in my right eye, slightly smaller than a sesame seed.
After conducting several tests, I found that when I cover my right eye and then uncover it to look at a wall, this black dot (or dark spot) appears and then disappears immediately.
This means that the phenomenon of the black dot is always present, but I cannot see it when my eyes are open.
I only see it when I transition from a black screen to a lighter gray background; I cannot see the black dot against a completely bright background (like the sky).
If this were to be classified as floaters, other types of floaters are visible in bright environments, but I have not experienced this fleeting black dot that disappears when moving from dark to light.
I truly do not understand why this is happening.
Could you please clarify this for me? Thank you.
Hua, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/11/01
Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology
Hello, Hua: If the fixed black spot is stationary, it may be a lesion on the retina.
Please visit an ophthalmologist to see if further examination is necessary.
The ophthalmology department at Puzi Hospital in Taiwan is open Monday to Friday from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM and Wednesday afternoons from 1:00 PM to 4:30 PM.
Online responses can only serve as a reference; it is essential to seek medical attention at a healthcare facility if needed.
I hope to have the opportunity to assist you.
Gao Pilin
Reply Date: 2016/11/01
More Info
Hello! Thank you for your detailed question regarding the black spots you are experiencing in your vision, particularly when blinking or transitioning between different backgrounds. Your situation raises several important points about visual perception and potential underlying eye conditions.
Firstly, the phenomenon you describe—seeing small black dots or spots when blinking or transitioning from a dark to a lighter background—could be related to a few different factors. One possibility is that you are experiencing a form of "visual floaters," which are often referred to as "floaters" or "muscae volitantes." These are tiny clumps of gel or cells inside the vitreous humor of the eye that can cast shadows on the retina, leading to the perception of spots or lines in your vision. Floaters are typically more noticeable against bright backgrounds, which might explain why you see them when transitioning from a dark to a lighter surface.
However, your description of the black dot appearing only in specific conditions—such as when you cover your right eye and then uncover it—suggests that this could also be related to the way your visual system processes information. When you cover one eye, the brain may momentarily adjust to the absence of input from that eye, and upon uncovering it, the sudden influx of visual information could lead to transient visual disturbances, including the perception of black spots.
Additionally, the fact that you have high myopia (700 degrees) is significant. Individuals with high myopia are at an increased risk for various ocular conditions, including retinal detachment, macular degeneration, and other vitreous changes. It's essential to monitor any new visual symptoms closely, especially if they are persistent or worsening.
Another aspect to consider is the possibility of "visual fatigue" or "visual stress." This can occur when the eyes are strained, particularly in individuals with high refractive errors like myopia. If you are spending long periods focusing on screens or reading, your eyes may become fatigued, leading to temporary visual disturbances.
Given your symptoms, it is crucial to consult with an eye care professional for a comprehensive eye examination. They can perform tests to evaluate the health of your retina and vitreous, assess for any signs of retinal detachment or other conditions, and provide you with a more accurate diagnosis. Regular eye exams are especially important for individuals with high myopia, as early detection of potential issues can lead to better outcomes.
In summary, while your experience of seeing black spots in specific visual contexts may be related to floaters or visual processing phenomena, it is essential to have a thorough examination to rule out any serious underlying conditions. Please make an appointment with your eye doctor to discuss your symptoms in detail and receive appropriate care. Your eye health is vital, and addressing any concerns early can help maintain your vision in the long term. Thank you for reaching out, and I hope you find this information helpful!
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