Retinal Issues: Myopia, Eye Fatigue, and Floaters Explained

Q: Retinal Issues: Myopia, Eye Fatigue, and Floaters Explained

Hello Nick： 1. Properly adjusting your glasses can reduce eye strain. Sometimes, multifocal glasses can alleviate fatigue. When fatigued, your vision may become blurry, but it typically recovers after resting. 2. The incidence of retinal detachment in indivi

Retinal issues

Hello Doctor:
1.
I have been wearing glasses since childhood and I am also a high myopia patient.
Sometimes my eyes become particularly fatigued, and things appear somewhat blurry, but I can still see them, just not clearly.
Is this normal?
2.
What is the likelihood of retinal detachment in individuals with high myopia?
3.
Is there a significant relationship between the number of floaters and vitreous degeneration?
4.
Due to my job, I spend more time on the computer than the average person.
Does this increase the risk of retinal detachment? The doctor did not inform me about my health status during the examination.

Thank you for your response, and I apologize for any inconvenience.

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

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology

Hello Nick:
1.
Properly adjusting your glasses can reduce eye strain.
Sometimes, multifocal glasses can alleviate fatigue.
When fatigued, your vision may become blurry, but it typically recovers after resting.
2.
The incidence of retinal detachment in individuals with high myopia is approximately ten times that of the general population, with an estimated risk of about 0.1%.
3.
The number of floaters is related to the degeneration of the vitreous body.
However, as long as the retina is normal, there is no need for concern.
4.
There is no direct correlation between computer use and the risk of retinal detachment.
However, prolonged computer use can lead to eye fatigue.
Taiwan E-Hospital Puzi Hospital Ophthalmology: Monday to Friday from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM and Wednesday from 1:00 PM to 4:30 PM.
Online responses should only be used as a reference; it is necessary to seek medical attention at a healthcare facility when needed.
I hope to have the opportunity to serve you.
Dr.
Gao Pilin

Reply Date: 2017/10/02

More Info

Dear Patient,
Thank you for your inquiry regarding your eye health, particularly concerning myopia, eye fatigue, and floaters. These are common concerns, especially among individuals with a history of high myopia. Let’s address your questions one by one.

1. Eye Fatigue and Blurriness: It is not uncommon for individuals with high myopia to experience eye fatigue and temporary blurriness, especially after prolonged periods of focusing on tasks such as reading or using a computer. This phenomenon can be attributed to a condition known as "digital eye strain" or "computer vision syndrome," which is characterized by symptoms like eye fatigue, dryness, and blurred vision. The muscles around the eyes can become fatigued from constant accommodation (focusing), leading to temporary blurriness. It is essential to take regular breaks using the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds. This practice can help alleviate some of the strain on your eyes.

2. Risk of Retinal Detachment: Individuals with high myopia are at a higher risk for retinal detachment compared to those with normal vision. The risk increases because the eyeball is often elongated in myopic individuals, which can lead to thinning of the retina and increased susceptibility to tears or detachments. While the exact probability can vary based on individual factors, it is crucial to have regular eye examinations, especially if you notice any sudden changes in your vision, such as flashes of light or an increase in floaters.

3. Floaters and Vitreous Degeneration: Floaters are often associated with the natural aging process of the eye, particularly vitreous degeneration, where the gel-like substance in the eye becomes more liquid and can pull away from the retina. In high myopia, the risk of floaters can be increased due to the structural changes in the eye. While floaters are usually harmless, a sudden increase in their number or the appearance of flashes of light should prompt an immediate consultation with an eye care professional, as these can be signs of more serious conditions, including retinal detachment.

4. Computer Use and Retinal Detachment Risk: While extensive computer use does not directly cause retinal detachment, it can contribute to eye strain and fatigue, which may exacerbate existing conditions. The primary concern with prolonged computer use is the potential for digital eye strain rather than an increased risk of retinal detachment. However, maintaining good ergonomic practices, ensuring proper lighting, and taking regular breaks can help mitigate the effects of prolonged screen time.

In conclusion, while your symptoms of eye fatigue and occasional blurriness can be common among those with high myopia, it is essential to remain vigilant about your eye health. Regular check-ups with your eye care provider are crucial, especially given your history of high myopia. They can monitor your retinal health and provide personalized recommendations based on your specific situation.

If you experience any sudden changes in your vision or have concerns about your eye health, do not hesitate to seek medical attention promptly. Your vision is invaluable, and proactive care is key to maintaining it.

Best regards,
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