Visual Disturbances: Symptoms and Solutions for Eye Issues

Q: Visual Disturbances: Symptoms and Solutions for Eye Issues

Hello, Student Yang： 1. This is caused by astigmatism. During the day, the pupils are smaller, so it is less noticeable. 2. This is the prism effect, and there is no need to worry. Regardless of whether you have experienced this phenomenon before, it is a no

Diplopia and issues with colored lights?

Hello, Doctor.
I have several issues with my eyes that I would like to consult you about:
1.
At night, when I look at bright lights, such as lamps or LED displays, I notice a layer that seems to float above them.
For instance, with an LED display, it appears as if a line of white text is floating above it.
This effect is particularly noticeable when looking at white text on a black background, such as on my phone; sometimes, the white text seems to float upward, and the edges of the floating shadow have colorful fringes.
However, this phenomenon does not occur every time; it is almost always present when looking at lights at night.
During the day, this situation is not as pronounced, but occasionally, some objects, especially white ones, will float slightly upward.
2.
Additionally, when I wear my glasses, I do not look through the center of the lenses but rather at the edges.
When I do this, I see red and yellow colors appearing at the edges of objects, while the opposite side shows blue and cyan.
If I switch to looking through the other edge of the lenses, the colors will switch sides (for example, if I look at an object through the left edge of the lens, the right edge will show red and yellow, while the left edge will show blue and cyan.
When I switch to the right edge, the right side will show blue and cyan, and the left side will show red and yellow).
A previous doctor mentioned this might be a prism effect, but my glasses did not exhibit this issue initially; it developed after wearing them for some time.
3.
When I do not wear my glasses, I notice reflections, such as metallic reflections or bright lights, and the periphery of the light has a colorful gradient.
I have visited many ophthalmologists, and opinions vary; some say it is eye strain, others mention higher-order aberrations, and some suggest keratitis (though they also said it has resolved, yet my symptoms persist).
I previously underwent a scan that I believe is called OCT? I'm not entirely sure.
The doctor said my eyes are normal and not to worry too much unless there is a serious issue, but I fear that by the time I notice a significant problem with my vision, it may be too late.
I am very concerned because each doctor provides different explanations, and there is no definitive cause or solution, leaving me unsure of what to do.
My right eye has a myopia of -5.75, and my left eye is -6.25, with floaters and astigmatism of about 0.50 to 1.00 diopters, along with mild dry eye.
I am very worried about the current unclear situation, do not know the exact cause, and am unsure of what to do.
Thank you for your assistance, Doctor.

Yang Tongxue, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/04/24

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology

Hello, Student Yang:
1.
This is caused by astigmatism.
During the day, the pupils are smaller, so it is less noticeable.
2.
This is the prism effect, and there is no need to worry.
Regardless of whether you have experienced this phenomenon before, it is a normal prism effect based on basic optical principles and is not an issue with your eyes.
3.
This is also due to not wearing glasses, which prevents the image from focusing clearly, resulting in this phenomenon, and it is normal.
Your symptoms should all be considered normal, and there is no need for concern.
They will not lead to any vision problems.
Taiwan E-Hospital Puzi Hospital Ophthalmology:
Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday: 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Wednesday: 2:00 PM - 4:30 PM
Online responses are for reference only; if necessary, you should visit a medical institution for treatment.
I hope to have the opportunity to serve you.
Gao Pilin

Reply Date: 2020/04/24

More Info

Hello! Thank you for sharing your concerns about your eye health. It sounds like you are experiencing a variety of visual disturbances, and I understand how distressing this can be. Let’s break down your symptoms and explore potential explanations and solutions.

1. Visual Disturbances at Night: You mentioned seeing a layer or halo effect around bright lights, especially at night. This phenomenon can be attributed to several factors, including glare sensitivity, which is common in individuals with refractive errors or dry eyes. The presence of halos or auras around lights can also indicate issues related to the cornea, such as corneal irregularities or even early signs of cataracts. The fact that this is more pronounced at night could suggest that your pupils dilate in low light, making any optical imperfections more noticeable.

2. Color Distortion with Glasses: The color fringes you observe when looking through the edges of your glasses could be related to the lens design or prescription. This is often referred to as "chromatic aberration," where different wavelengths of light are refracted by different amounts, leading to color separation. If your glasses have a high prescription or if they are not properly fitted, this effect can become more pronounced. The prism effect mentioned by your doctor could also be a factor, especially if the lenses are not aligned correctly with your visual axis.

3. Reflections and Color Gradients: The colorful gradients you see around reflective surfaces could be a result of high-order aberrations in your vision. These are imperfections in the eye's optical system that can cause distortions, especially in bright light. While some degree of high-order aberration is normal, excessive amounts can lead to visual discomfort and distortion. This can be exacerbated by dry eyes, which you mentioned experiencing.

Given your history of myopia (nearsightedness) and astigmatism, along with the presence of floaters, it is essential to monitor these symptoms closely. Floaters can be benign, but if you notice a sudden increase in them or flashes of light, it is crucial to seek immediate medical attention, as these could indicate retinal issues.

Recommendations:
1. Follow-Up with an Eye Specialist: Since you have seen multiple eye doctors and received varying opinions, it may be beneficial to consult a specialist who focuses on complex refractive issues or a retinal specialist. They can perform comprehensive tests, including Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT), to assess the health of your retina and optic nerve in detail.

2. Consider a New Prescription: If your current glasses are causing visual distortions, it may be time for a new prescription. Ensure that the lenses are made with high-quality materials and are properly fitted to your face. Discuss with your optometrist about the possibility of using anti-reflective coatings, which can help reduce glare and improve visual clarity.

3. Manage Dry Eye Symptoms: Since you mentioned mild dry eyes, consider using lubricating eye drops or artificial tears to alleviate discomfort. Staying hydrated and taking regular breaks from screens can also help reduce eye strain.

4. Monitor Your Symptoms: Keep a journal of your symptoms, noting when they occur and any potential triggers. This information can be valuable for your eye care provider in determining the underlying cause of your visual disturbances.

5. Stay Informed and Advocate for Yourself: If you feel that your concerns are not being adequately addressed, do not hesitate to seek a second opinion. Your eye health is paramount, and it’s essential to find a healthcare provider who listens to your concerns and provides clear explanations.

In conclusion, while your symptoms may be concerning, many visual disturbances can be managed effectively with the right approach. Regular follow-ups and open communication with your eye care provider will be key to ensuring your visual health remains stable. Take care, and I hope you find relief soon!

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