Seeing Black Spots After Using Phone: Is It Eye Health Concern? - Ophthalmology

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After using the phone, there are black spots when looking up?


Hello doctor, after using my phone, when I look up at a white surface, I see a ring that is black on the outside and filled with white dots that gather towards the center, but it disappears quickly.
I already have floaters, so I'm not sure if this is a worsening of my condition or if it's something else.

Niming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/02/10

Dr. Cai Wenyuan reply Ophthalmology


Hello, it is likely still a phenomenon of floaters, which appears more pronounced against a white background.
Wishing you safety and health.
Sincerely, Dr.
Tsai Wen-Yuan, Director of the Ophthalmology Department, Taoyuan General Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2017/02/10

More Info


Seeing black spots after using your phone can indeed be concerning, especially if you have a pre-existing condition like floaters (known as "myodesopsia" in medical terms). Based on the information provided, it seems that what you are experiencing may be related to your existing floaters rather than a new or worsening condition. Floaters are tiny clumps of gel or cells that form in the vitreous humor of the eye, casting shadows on the retina and causing the perception of spots or threads in your vision.
When you look at a bright, uniform surface, such as a white wall or a blank screen, these floaters can become more noticeable. The phenomenon you described—seeing a ring of black around white dots that then converge and disappear—could be a visual artifact caused by the contrast of the bright background against the floaters. This is not uncommon and is generally not a cause for alarm, especially if it resolves quickly and does not recur frequently.

However, it is important to be vigilant about changes in your vision. If you notice an increase in the number of floaters, flashes of light, or any sudden changes in your vision, it is crucial to seek an eye examination promptly. These symptoms can sometimes indicate more serious conditions, such as retinal tears or detachment, which require immediate medical attention.

In addition to floaters, prolonged use of digital devices like smartphones can lead to digital eye strain, also known as computer vision syndrome. Symptoms of digital eye strain include blurred vision, dry eyes, headaches, and discomfort. This is often exacerbated by factors such as poor lighting, glare from screens, and prolonged focus on close-up tasks. To mitigate these effects, consider the following strategies:
1. Follow the 20-20-20 Rule: Every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break to look at something 20 feet away. This helps reduce eye strain from prolonged screen time.

2. Adjust Your Screen Settings: Ensure that your screen brightness is comfortable and that you have good contrast between text and background. Consider using blue light filters or glasses if you use screens for extended periods.

3. Maintain Proper Distance: Keep your phone or computer screen at a comfortable distance (about arm's length) and at eye level to reduce strain on your neck and eyes.

4. Stay Hydrated and Blink Regularly: Blinking helps keep your eyes moist. When focusing on screens, people tend to blink less, leading to dry eyes. Make a conscious effort to blink more often.

5. Regular Eye Check-ups: If you have pre-existing conditions like floaters or dry eye syndrome, regular visits to an eye care professional are essential to monitor your eye health and adjust any necessary treatments.

In summary, while the black spots you see after using your phone may be related to your existing floaters, it is essential to remain observant of any changes in your vision. If you experience any new symptoms or if your current symptoms worsen, do not hesitate to consult with an eye care professional for a comprehensive evaluation. Your eye health is paramount, and early detection of any potential issues can lead to better outcomes.

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