Eye Symptoms: From Floaters to Dry Eye Concerns

Feeling exhausted from living?

Hello doctor, I have been experiencing floaters for over two years.
Recently, I've noticed some unusual symptoms in my eyes, such as seeing dots, straight lines, or zebra-like patterns.
After staring for a moment, I often see overlapping light shadows next to these patterns.
For example, when looking at zebra stripes, I see a black shadow beside them, which only goes away after I blink.
When I focus on a dot, I sometimes see a circular light shadow next to it, and occasionally I see colors like blue, yellow, and pink.
Sometimes, when I stare at my textbook, I notice a blue light over the text, almost like it has been highlighted with a fluorescent marker! Additionally, when I look at very bright lights, it takes a moment for my eyes to stop seeing the glare.
Sometimes my eyes feel dry and painful, especially at the corners, which makes me wonder if I might have dry eye syndrome.
I would like to ask the doctor what might be causing these symptoms.
I am very scared and hesitant to visit an ophthalmologist, and I worry that they might not understand me.
😭😭😭 I hope the doctor can provide some answers.
Thank you so much; I am really afraid of losing my vision, and I am only 18 years old...

Abba, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/10/25

Dr. He Jianxian reply Ophthalmology

1.
Symptoms that can be alleviated by blinking or resting are likely not a major concern.
2.
Many of your questions cannot be clearly addressed, so I recommend that you visit an ophthalmologist in person for a more appropriate evaluation.

Reply Date: 2018/10/25

More Info

It's understandable to feel anxious about your eye health, especially with the symptoms you've described. Let's break down your concerns regarding floaters, dry eye symptoms, and the visual disturbances you're experiencing.

Floaters and Visual Disturbances
Floaters are common, especially in individuals with myopia (nearsightedness). They occur when tiny clumps of gel or cells form in the vitreous, the gel-like substance that fills the eye. While floaters can be annoying, they are usually harmless. However, the new symptoms you're describing, such as seeing overlapping shadows or colored halos around objects, warrant further investigation. These could be signs of changes in the vitreous or even retinal issues, especially if they are new or have changed in nature.

The phenomenon of seeing colors or halos, particularly when looking at bright lights, can sometimes be associated with conditions like migraines or visual disturbances related to the retina. Given your history of floaters and high myopia, it's crucial to have a comprehensive eye exam to rule out any serious conditions, such as retinal tears or detachments.

Dry Eye Symptoms
You mentioned experiencing dryness, pain, and itching in your eyes. These symptoms are consistent with dry eye syndrome, which can occur for various reasons, including prolonged screen time, environmental factors, or underlying health conditions. Dry eyes can lead to discomfort and may exacerbate other visual symptoms, making it feel like your vision is affected.

To manage dry eye symptoms, consider the following:
1. Artificial Tears: Over-the-counter lubricating eye drops can provide relief. Look for preservative-free options if you need to use them frequently.

2. Screen Time Management: Follow the 20-20-20 rule—every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break and look at something 20 feet away. This helps reduce eye strain.

3. Humidifiers: Using a humidifier in your living space can help maintain moisture in the air, which may alleviate dry eye symptoms.

4. Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to help maintain overall hydration, which can benefit your eyes.

5. Consult an Eye Care Professional: If your symptoms persist, it’s essential to consult an eye care professional who can provide tailored advice and treatment options.

Anxiety and Seeking Help
It's completely normal to feel apprehensive about visiting an eye doctor, especially if you're worried about being misunderstood. However, eye care professionals are trained to address patient concerns with empathy and understanding. Bringing a list of your symptoms and any specific worries can help facilitate the conversation. Remember, early detection and treatment of any potential issues are crucial for maintaining your vision.

Conclusion
In summary, while floaters and dry eye symptoms can be common, the new visual disturbances you're experiencing should be evaluated by an eye care professional. Don't let fear prevent you from seeking the help you need. Your vision is vital, and addressing these symptoms early can lead to better outcomes. Remember, you're not alone in this, and there are professionals who can help you navigate your concerns and ensure your eyes remain healthy.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Eye Issues: Floaters and Dry Eye Symptoms Explained

Hello, Doctor. I originally did not have any symptoms of floaters, but last week I woke up one day with very dry eyes (I could clearly feel the dryness) and they were sore and painful. It was manageable when looking at regular things, but when I looked at the computer or TV, my e...

Dr. He Jianxian reply Ophthalmology
Hello: Regarding floaters, this is a phenomenon of vitreous degeneration, which is more likely to occur in patients with high myopia. Typically, these images are more noticeable against a relatively simple background, such as a white wall or blue sky. Generally, they only cause i...

Understanding Dry Eye Syndrome: Symptoms and Solutions for Eye Health

Hello, Doctor. I have floaters and recently developed dry eye syndrome. I already wear glasses, but a few weeks ago, I started feeling like my glasses were dirty, as if there were water droplets or smudges on them. Even after cleaning my glasses, the sensation persisted. When I t...

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology
Hello, Xu: Sometimes, floaters can present in this manner. If you have been examined and found no issues, please continue to monitor the situation. If it worsens or if there are changes in the shape of what you see, please seek medical attention immediately. The ophthalmology dep...

Understanding Your Eye Discomfort: Symptoms and Possible Causes

Hello Doctor, I have the following symptoms: my eyes feel hot, itchy, and dry; sometimes I feel like there is a white film over my eyes, which makes me want to blink frequently (or I feel like my vision is blurry). At times, I find that everything appears too bright and glaring, ...

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology
Hello, regarding your symptoms: dry and itchy eyes with a white layer may indicate dryness or could be caused by an infection or inflammation. The presence of floaters could be due to vitreous degeneration, commonly known as floaters syndrome. The causes of double vision are more...

Understanding Dry Eyes: Symptoms, Causes, and Care Tips

Excuse me, doctor. I have floaters in my vision, and when I wake up in the morning, my eyes often feel sore and blurry. Recently, when my eyes are exposed to sunlight in the morning, they become very dry, and this has been happening for several weeks. My eyes easily feel sore and...

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology
Hello: Your symptoms may be related to dry eye syndrome, but it is essential for a physician to make a diagnosis. Dry eye syndrome is a common eye condition often accompanied by sensations of dryness, irritation, fatigue, and possibly blurred vision. It cannot be detected through...