Retinal Changes in High Myopia: Symptoms and Prevention - Ophthalmology

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High myopia, defined as a refractive error greater than -6.00 diopters, is associated with various ocular complications, particularly retinal changes. As you mentioned, your recent eye examination revealed retinal thinning, which is a common finding in individuals with high myopia. This thinning can predispose the retina to several issues, including retinal detachment, macular degeneration, and other degenerative changes.

Symptoms of Retinal Changes in High Myopia
1. Visual Disturbances: The symptoms you describe, such as seeing flashes of light (photopsia) and experiencing visual disturbances when you wake up, can be related to vitreous changes. In high myopia, the vitreous gel can undergo liquefaction and posterior vitreous detachment, which may tug on the retina and cause these sensations. Flashes of light are often a sign that the vitreous is pulling on the retina, which can be benign but should be monitored closely.

2. Floaters: Many individuals with high myopia report seeing floaters, which are small specks or strands that drift through your field of vision. These are typically harmless but can be more pronounced if there are changes in the vitreous.

3. Blurred Vision: As the retina thins, it may not function optimally, leading to blurred vision, especially in low-light conditions. This could explain why you notice more disturbances at night or in dimly lit environments.

4. Night Vision Issues: Difficulty seeing in low light or experiencing halos around lights can also be associated with retinal changes and the overall structure of the eye in high myopia.


Prevention and Monitoring
Given your situation, it is crucial to maintain regular follow-ups with your ophthalmologist. Here are some preventive measures and considerations:
1. Regular Eye Exams: Frequent monitoring of your retinal health is essential. Your eye doctor will likely recommend regular dilated fundus examinations and possibly optical coherence tomography (OCT) to assess the retina's condition over time.

2. Laser Treatment: The decision to undergo preventive laser treatment, such as laser photocoagulation, is typically based on the presence of specific risk factors, such as retinal tears or significant thinning. Since your doctor noted that there are no holes or tears, immediate laser treatment may not be necessary. However, if your symptoms worsen or if new findings arise, this may be reconsidered.

3. Lifestyle Adjustments: While there is no definitive way to prevent retinal thinning, maintaining a healthy lifestyle can support overall eye health. This includes protecting your eyes from UV light, managing systemic health conditions (like diabetes and hypertension), and avoiding smoking.

4. Education on Symptoms: Be vigilant about any new symptoms, such as an increase in the number of floaters, sudden flashes of light, or a shadow or curtain effect in your vision. These could indicate a retinal tear or detachment, which is a medical emergency.


Conclusion
In summary, while the symptoms you are experiencing can be concerning, they do not necessarily indicate an imminent threat to your vision, especially since there are no current signs of retinal tears. However, given the nature of high myopia and its associated risks, it is essential to stay proactive about your eye health. Regular check-ups and open communication with your eye care provider will help ensure that any changes in your condition are addressed promptly. If you have any further concerns or if your symptoms change, do not hesitate to reach out to your ophthalmologist for guidance.