Blurred Vision and Wrinkles in the White of the Eye: Causes and Solutions

Blurred vision in the corner of the right eye with wrinkling of the sclera?

Hello Doctor: Two days ago, when I took off my glasses at noon, I suddenly experienced blurred vision in the corner of my right eye, as if there was a thin film over it.
After 2-3 minutes, my vision returned to normal, but I noticed a fold in the sclera of my right eye.
The part of the sclera near the corner appeared darker and grayer than the rest, and I felt itching in the corner of my eye, along with a sensation of swelling and discomfort in focus.
Today, the symptoms have improved, but the fold remains unchanged.
Previously, a doctor mentioned that the retina in my right eye is thinning and there is a possibility of a tear.
Although the risk of a tear is low, I underwent preventive laser treatment at Veterans General Hospital on January 26.
During a follow-up visit on February 17, the doctor said that aside from the thinning retina in both eyes, there were no significant issues.
My vision status includes floaters in both eyes, with the right eye being more severe.
After dilation, the results were: Right eye: Myopia: -7.25, Astigmatism: -2.00, Astigmatism axis: 176; Left eye: Myopia: -7.25, Astigmatism: -1.50, Astigmatism axis: 174.
Could you please explain why this situation is occurring? Thank you.

xy, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/02/24

Dr. Cai Wenyuan reply Ophthalmology

Hello, the situation you described is not related to the retina.
It is suspected to be conjunctivitis causing conjunctival edema.
It is recommended to seek medical treatment.
Wishing you safety and health.
Sincerely, Dr.
Tsai Wen-Yuan, Chief of Ophthalmology, Taoyuan General Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2017/02/24

More Info

The symptoms you are experiencing, including blurred vision, a feeling of a film over your right eye, and the appearance of a wrinkle in the white part of your eye (sclera), can be concerning. Based on your description, it seems that you have a combination of issues that may be related to your existing eye conditions, including myopia (nearsightedness), astigmatism, and possibly changes in the vitreous humor or retina.

Possible Causes
1. Vitreous Detachment: Given your history of myopia and the fact that you have experienced floaters, it is possible that you are experiencing a vitreous detachment. This occurs when the vitreous gel that fills the eye begins to pull away from the retina. This can lead to temporary visual disturbances, such as blurred vision or the sensation of a film over the eye. In some cases, this can also cause the appearance of wrinkles or folds in the sclera due to changes in pressure or tension.

2. Retinal Changes: You mentioned that your retina has been noted to be thinner, which can increase the risk of retinal tears or detachment. The presence of a wrinkle in the sclera could be a sign of underlying changes in the eye structure, possibly related to the tension from the vitreous or even from the thinning of the retina itself.
3. Inflammation or Allergic Reaction: The itching and swelling you described could indicate an allergic reaction or inflammation. This could be due to environmental factors, such as dust or pollen, or even a reaction to contact lenses or eye drops. Inflammation can cause changes in the appearance of the eye and may contribute to discomfort.

4. Corneal Issues: Sometimes, corneal edema or other corneal conditions can lead to blurred vision and discomfort. If the cornea is swollen or has irregularities, it can affect how light enters the eye, leading to visual disturbances.

Recommendations
1. Follow-Up with an Eye Specialist: Since you have a history of retinal thinning and have undergone preventive laser treatment, it is crucial to have regular follow-ups with your ophthalmologist. They can perform detailed examinations, including optical coherence tomography (OCT) and visual field tests, to assess the health of your retina and vitreous.

2. Monitor Symptoms: Keep a close watch on your symptoms. If you experience any sudden changes in vision, such as flashes of light, an increase in floaters, or a curtain-like shadow over your vision, seek immediate medical attention. These could be signs of a retinal tear or detachment.

3. Manage Eye Fatigue: Given your high degree of myopia and astigmatism, ensure that you are using the correct prescription glasses or contact lenses. Additionally, take regular breaks when using screens or reading to reduce eye strain.

4. Consider Allergies: If the itching and swelling persist, consider consulting with an allergist or your eye doctor to determine if allergies are contributing to your symptoms. They may recommend antihistamines or other treatments to alleviate discomfort.

5. Stay Informed: Educate yourself about your eye conditions. Understanding the implications of myopia, astigmatism, and potential retinal issues can help you make informed decisions about your eye health.

Conclusion
The symptoms you are experiencing could be multifactorial, involving changes in the vitreous, retinal health, or even allergic reactions. It is essential to maintain open communication with your eye care provider and to report any new or worsening symptoms promptly. Regular eye examinations and monitoring are key to managing your eye health effectively.

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