Floaters and Eye Coordination Issues: A Guide for Patients

The central point in the eye appears as a translucent, floating spot?

Hello, doctor.
I have a disparity in my vision, with my left eye at -2.75 and my right eye at -1.50.
Over the past two weeks, I have been experiencing an increased awareness of floaters, which I have had before but have recently become more pronounced.
I feel some lack of coordination between my eyes, and when looking at screens with my right eye, I sometimes see translucent, blob-like shapes that move as I shift my gaze.
Since I am currently abroad, I visited an optometrist yesterday.
The optometrist used a horizontal ruler, with blue on the left and yellow on the right.
When looking at the larger ruler, the number I saw was 2, and when looking at the smaller ruler, the number was 9.
The optometrist mentioned that my eyes are too fatigued and that the disparity in vision might be causing the lack of coordination between my eyes, which has suddenly developed in the past two weeks.
I have had my myopia stable since elementary school, with my left eye at -2.75 and my right eye at -1.50 for at least five years, so I do not believe that an increase in prescription is causing the lack of coordination.
I would like to inquire about the possible causes of the translucent, foggy blobs and the lack of coordination between my eyes.
Thank you, doctor.

Jane, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/02/27

Dr. He Jianxian reply Ophthalmology

The vitreous body is indeed what is referred to as floaters, which are caused by the degeneration of the vitreous humor within the eye.
As for your sense of disorientation, I cannot determine the primary cause.
I recommend visiting a clinic for further evaluation by a physician.

Reply Date: 2020/02/27

More Info

Hello! Thank you for sharing your concerns regarding your vision issues, particularly the floaters and the coordination problems between your eyes. It sounds like you are experiencing a combination of symptoms that can be quite distressing, especially when they affect your daily activities and comfort.

Understanding Floaters
Floaters are small specks or strands that drift through your field of vision. They are caused by tiny pieces of gel or cells inside the vitreous, the clear gel-like substance that fills the eye. As we age, the vitreous can become more liquid and shrink, leading to the formation of these floaters. While floaters are common and usually harmless, a sudden increase in their number or changes in their appearance can indicate a more serious condition, such as a retinal tear or detachment. Given that you have noticed an increase in floaters recently, it is essential to monitor this symptom closely and consult with an eye care professional if it worsens.

Eye Coordination Issues
The sensation of your eyes not working together effectively can be attributed to several factors. In your case, the difference in prescription between your two eyes (left eye -2.75, right eye -1.50) may contribute to the perception of visual disparity. This condition is known as anisometropia, where the two eyes have significantly different refractive power. When the brain receives conflicting visual signals from each eye, it can lead to discomfort, double vision, or a feeling of disorientation.

The fact that you are experiencing this coordination issue more acutely in the past two weeks could be related to eye fatigue, especially if you have been using digital devices more frequently. Prolonged screen time can strain the eyes, leading to symptoms such as dryness, fatigue, and difficulty focusing. It’s important to take regular breaks using the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds.

Possible Causes of Your Symptoms
1. Visual Fatigue: As mentioned, extended use of screens can lead to visual fatigue, which may exacerbate the feeling of uncoordinated vision. This fatigue can cause your brain to struggle to merge the images from both eyes effectively.

2. Changes in the Vitreous: The presence of floaters, especially if they are new or changing, can be a sign of changes in the vitreous gel. This can sometimes lead to visual disturbances, including the perception of shadows or semi-transparent shapes.

3. Anisometropia: The difference in your prescription may lead to a lack of visual clarity and coordination. Your brain may find it challenging to fuse the images from both eyes, especially if one eye is significantly stronger than the other.

4. Stress and Anxiety: Being in a foreign environment and dealing with health concerns can also contribute to stress, which may manifest as visual disturbances. Stress can affect how your eyes function and how your brain processes visual information.

Recommendations
1. Regular Eye Exams: Continue to have regular check-ups with an optometrist or ophthalmologist. They can monitor your eye health and make necessary adjustments to your prescription.

2. Visual Rest: Ensure you are taking adequate breaks from screens and engaging in activities that do not strain your eyes. Consider using artificial tears if you experience dryness.

3. Eye Exercises: Simple eye exercises can help improve coordination. For example, focusing on a distant object and then a nearby one can help your eyes adjust and work together more effectively.

4. Consult a Specialist: If your symptoms persist or worsen, consider seeing a specialist who can conduct a thorough examination, including a dilated fundus exam, to rule out any serious conditions.

5. Stay Informed: Educate yourself about your condition and stay proactive about your eye health. Understanding your symptoms can help you manage them better.

In conclusion, while floaters and coordination issues can be concerning, they are often manageable with the right approach. Keep monitoring your symptoms, and don’t hesitate to seek professional advice if needed. Your eye health is crucial, and taking proactive steps can help ensure you maintain good vision.

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