Visual Disturbances: Why Do Your Eyes Feel Shaky? - Ophthalmology

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Hello! Thank you for reaching out with your concerns regarding the visual disturbances you are experiencing. Based on your description, it seems that you are encountering a phenomenon often referred to as visual oscillopsia or visual distortion, which can be particularly pronounced when looking at densely packed images or patterns, such as those found in photographs of waterfalls.

There are several potential explanations for the sensations you are experiencing, especially considering your background as someone who spends a significant amount of time in front of a computer screen. Here are some factors that could contribute to your symptoms:
1. Visual Fatigue: Prolonged screen time can lead to digital eye strain, which manifests as discomfort, blurred vision, and visual disturbances. This condition is often exacerbated by inadequate lighting, improper screen distance, or glare from the screen. The fatigue can cause your eyes to struggle to maintain focus, leading to the perception of shaking or wavering images.

2. Eye Conditions: Although you mentioned that an OCT scan showed no issues with your macula, other conditions could still be at play. For example, high myopia (nearsightedness) can lead to changes in the vitreous gel in the eye, which may cause visual disturbances. Additionally, if you have floaters or other vitreous changes, these could contribute to the sensation of movement or distortion in your vision.

3. Neurological Factors: Sometimes, visual disturbances can be linked to neurological issues, particularly if they are accompanied by other symptoms such as headaches or changes in cognitive function. Stress and anxiety can also exacerbate visual disturbances, leading to a heightened perception of motion or instability in your visual field.

4. Visual Processing: The brain's ability to process visual information can be affected by fatigue or stress. If your brain is overwhelmed by visual stimuli, it may struggle to create a stable image, resulting in the perception of motion or distortion.

5. Environmental Factors: Changes in your environment, such as lighting conditions or the quality of your screen, can also impact how your eyes perceive images. For instance, flickering screens or poor resolution can lead to visual disturbances.

Given that your symptoms have intensified over the past few months, it would be prudent to consult with an eye care professional for a comprehensive evaluation. They may recommend additional tests to rule out any underlying conditions that could be contributing to your symptoms.
In the meantime, here are some strategies that may help alleviate your discomfort:
- Take Regular Breaks: Follow the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break to look at something 20 feet away. This can help reduce eye strain.

- Adjust Your Workspace: Ensure that your screen is at eye level and that you have adequate lighting to minimize glare.

- Use Artificial Tears: If you experience dryness, lubricating eye drops can help keep your eyes moist and comfortable.

- Practice Relaxation Techniques: Stress management techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga can help reduce overall tension, which may alleviate visual disturbances.

In conclusion, while your symptoms may be related to visual fatigue or other factors, a thorough examination by an eye care professional is essential for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate management. Please take care, and I hope you find relief from your symptoms soon!