Should I See an Eye Specialist or Another Doctor for My Vision Issues?

Q: Should I See an Eye Specialist or Another Doctor for My Vision Issues?

Dear Ms. <br>J： <br>In your letter, you mentioned that you see black objects floating in your vision, and that you have already consulted a doctor, undergone a dilated eye exam, and even had an MRI. <br>I am curious about which specialties you have seen. <br>Such symptoms could p

Should I see an ophthalmologist or another specialist?

Hello Doctor, since mid-January of this year, I have occasionally experienced a darkened area in my visual field, as if something is floating and obstructing my line of sight.
Sometimes, I also feel like I see stars or bright spots flashing, similar to the sensation of standing up quickly after squatting for a long time, but this occurs only near the corner of my eye rather than throughout my entire visual field.
At times, I can still see this area even with my eyes closed, and it seems to be moving.
My eyes also feel uncomfortable, but after resting for about a minute, the symptoms tend to subside.
Recently, this has been happening more frequently, usually in my left eye, but occasionally in both eyes.
I have undergone several dilated eye examinations previously, and no issues were found, except for optic disc edema noted in late March in my right eye.
An MRI in April did not reveal any lesions, and the doctor advised regular follow-up for that issue.
I would like to know which specialty I should consult—should I see an ophthalmologist or another specialist? Thank you.

Miss J, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/06/14

Dr. Chen Bozhang reply Family Medicine

Dear Ms.
J:
In your letter, you mentioned that you see black objects floating in your vision, and that you have already consulted a doctor, undergone a dilated eye exam, and even had an MRI.
I am curious about which specialties you have seen.
Such symptoms could potentially indicate issues with the vitreous, retina, or optic nerve, so it is essential to first consult an ophthalmologist for a thorough examination.
If the ophthalmologist cannot provide a clear answer, then seeking the expertise of a neurologist would be advisable.
I hope this information is helpful.
Dr.
Chen Po-Chang, Department of Family Medicine, Keelung Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare

Reply Date: 2018/06/14

More Info

Based on the symptoms you've described, it is advisable to see an eye specialist, specifically an ophthalmologist, for a thorough evaluation of your vision issues. Your symptoms, including the occasional dark spots in your visual field, the sensation of something obstructing your view, and the appearance of bright spots or "stars," could be indicative of several underlying conditions that require professional assessment.

The fact that you have experienced these symptoms since January and that they have been increasing in frequency is concerning. The presence of visual disturbances, particularly in one eye, can be associated with various ocular conditions, including retinal issues, optic nerve problems, or even neurological concerns. Given your history of optic disc edema (swelling of the optic nerve head) and the MRI results that did not show any lesions, it is crucial to continue monitoring your eye health closely.

Here are some key points to consider when deciding to see an eye specialist:
1. Specialized Knowledge: Ophthalmologists are trained to diagnose and treat a wide range of eye conditions. They can perform comprehensive eye exams, including visual field tests, retinal imaging, and other diagnostic procedures that can help identify any underlying issues.

2. Follow-Up on Previous Findings: Since you have a history of optic disc edema, it is essential to follow up on this finding. The swelling of the optic nerve can lead to vision problems and may require ongoing monitoring to prevent further complications.

3. Symptoms of Concern: The symptoms you describe, such as seeing moving objects in your peripheral vision and experiencing discomfort, warrant immediate attention. These could be signs of retinal detachment, vitreous hemorrhage, or other serious conditions that need prompt intervention.

4. Referral to Other Specialists: If the ophthalmologist finds that your symptoms may be related to neurological issues, they can refer you to a neurologist for further evaluation. This collaborative approach ensures that all potential causes of your symptoms are explored.

5. Regular Monitoring: Given your previous MRI results and the need for regular follow-ups, it is crucial to maintain a schedule for eye exams. This will help track any changes in your condition and allow for timely intervention if necessary.

In summary, you should definitely see an ophthalmologist to address your vision issues. They can provide a comprehensive evaluation and determine if further tests or referrals to other specialists are needed. It is important to communicate all your symptoms clearly during your appointment, including the frequency and nature of your visual disturbances, to ensure that the ophthalmologist has a complete understanding of your condition. Regular monitoring and prompt attention to any changes in your vision are key to maintaining your eye health.

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