Visual Disturbances: Why Do Images Appear to Shake? - Ophthalmology

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Visual disturbances, such as the sensation that images appear to shake or move, can be quite distressing, especially when they occur frequently. Based on your description, there are several potential causes for these symptoms, particularly considering your history of high myopia (nearsightedness) and the presence of floaters (known as "myodesopsia").
1. High Myopia: Individuals with high myopia often experience changes in the structure of the eye, particularly in the vitreous gel that fills the eye. As people age or as the eye elongates due to myopia, the vitreous can become more liquefied and may pull away from the retina, leading to visual disturbances. This can manifest as a sensation of movement or distortion, especially when viewing dense images or patterns.

2. Vitreous Detachment: In some cases, the vitreous gel can detach from the retina, which is a common occurrence in individuals with high myopia. This detachment can lead to visual phenomena such as flashes of light or the perception of movement in images. While this is often benign, it is essential to monitor for any changes, as it can sometimes lead to more serious conditions like retinal tears or detachments.

3. Retinal Health: Although your recent examinations indicated that the macula is normal, the mention of a thinner retina could be significant. A thinner retina may be more susceptible to changes and could contribute to visual disturbances. Regular monitoring by an eye care professional is crucial to ensure that no new issues develop.

4. Visual Fatigue: Given that you spend considerable time focusing on screens or detailed work, visual fatigue could also play a role in your symptoms. Prolonged periods of concentration can lead to a temporary decrease in visual acuity and can exacerbate the perception of movement or distortion in images. Taking regular breaks and practicing the 20-20-20 rule (every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds) can help alleviate some of this strain.

5. Psychological Factors: Anxiety and stress can amplify the perception of visual disturbances. If you are feeling anxious about your symptoms, this could lead to a heightened awareness of them, creating a feedback loop that makes the sensations feel more intense. It may be beneficial to discuss these feelings with a healthcare provider, as addressing anxiety can sometimes alleviate physical symptoms.

6. Other Conditions: While less common, other neurological or systemic conditions could also lead to visual disturbances. If your symptoms persist or worsen, further evaluation by a neurologist or a comprehensive eye examination may be warranted to rule out other underlying issues.


Recommendations:
- Regular Eye Exams: Continue to have regular check-ups with your ophthalmologist to monitor your retinal health, especially given your history of high myopia and the presence of floaters.

- Visual Hygiene: Implement good visual hygiene practices, such as taking breaks from screens, ensuring proper lighting, and using appropriate corrective lenses.

- Monitor Symptoms: Keep a log of when these disturbances occur, their duration, and any associated activities. This information can be helpful for your eye care provider.

- Seek Support: If anxiety about your symptoms is affecting your quality of life, consider speaking with a mental health professional who can provide strategies to manage these feelings.

In summary, while your symptoms may be related to your myopia and vitreous changes, it is essential to maintain open communication with your eye care provider and to seek further evaluation if your symptoms continue to escalate. Your proactive approach to understanding and addressing these visual disturbances is commendable, and with the right care, you can work towards finding relief.