Retinal and Lens Issues After Laser Treatment: A Patient's Journey

Q: Retinal and Lens Issues After Laser Treatment: A Patient's Journey

Hello Momo：<br>1. <br>When the retina is unstable, it can be pulled by the vitreous, which may lead to a tear. <br>It is important to avoid any head movements to prevent the retina from being torn. <br>Since you have already undergone laser treatment, you should wait for it to he

Retinal and lens issues & changes after laser treatment?

Hello, Dr.
Gao! Around June, I started experiencing a flashing sensation when moving my eyes.
I went to a nearby ophthalmologist for a dilated eye exam and discovered a hole in my left eye, which was immediately treated with laser therapy.
A few days later, I noticed something unusual: a ring-shaped floaters in my left eye.
During my follow-up appointment, I asked the doctor if there were any new developments in my condition, but he advised me to rest more, mentioning that the wound felt bad and that if it worsened, I could risk detachment and potential blindness.
After hearing about the possibility of blindness, I became very anxious and went to another more reputable ophthalmology clinic for an examination, where I found out that there were also many holes in the periphery of my right eye, and I had missed one in my left eye.
I underwent three additional retinal laser treatments.

Currently, my situation is that at night, after a few minutes of lying down, both of my eyes start to flicker, resembling fireflies blinking on and off.
Sometimes, I see many wavy patterns in my vitreous, which feels like it is rapidly degenerating.
Recently, I noticed a dark cloud appearing below my left eye, which gradually fades away but reappears when I move my eyes or close and reopen them.
When I close my eyes, the area where the dark cloud is appears white.

Dr.
Gao, I have a few questions:
1.
Is it normal for my eyes to flicker like fireflies? Will it get better? I’m still very anxious despite having had laser treatment, fearing a tear.
2.
The recent appearance of the dark cloud—could it be related to vitreous degeneration or damage to the retina? Can resting improve this condition?
3.
Due to my work, I have to use screens extensively.
If I take a 10-minute break after 50 minutes of screen time, will this long-term usage worsen my eye condition? I’m not even 30 years old yet, and I’m worried about going blind as I age.

I have read many articles and sincerely seek your guidance.
Thank you!

Momo, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/08/23

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology

Hello Momo:
1.
When the retina is unstable, it can be pulled by the vitreous, which may lead to a tear.
It is important to avoid any head movements to prevent the retina from being torn.
Since you have already undergone laser treatment, you should wait for it to heal before the retina becomes less prone to detachment.
2.
The dark cloud you are experiencing may be due to a more opaque part of the vitreous, likely related to degeneration.
Resting your eyes may not improve the situation, but it won't hurt either.
3.
When using a computer, you can follow the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes of screen time, look away from the screen for 20 seconds and focus on something 20 feet (6 meters) away.
If you can blink 20 times during this break, that would be even better.
Make sure to rest your eyes; if there are no underlying conditions, your vision should not deteriorate.
Taiwan E-Hospital, Puzi Hospital, Ophthalmology Department:
Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday: 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Wednesday: 2:00 PM - 4:30 PM
Please note that online responses are for reference only.
If necessary, you should visit a medical facility for treatment.
I hope to have the opportunity to serve you.
Dr.
Gao Pilin

Reply Date: 2020/08/23

More Info

Hello! Thank you for reaching out with your concerns regarding your eye health after laser treatment. It sounds like you've been through quite a journey, and I understand how distressing these symptoms can be. Let’s address your questions one by one.

1. Flashing Lights in Your Vision: The phenomenon of seeing flashes of light, often described as "fireflies," can be associated with various conditions, including retinal tears or detachment, especially after undergoing laser treatment for retinal holes. While it’s common to experience some visual disturbances after such procedures, persistent flashes should not be ignored. They can indicate ongoing issues with the retina. It’s crucial to follow up with your ophthalmologist regularly to monitor these symptoms. If the flashes persist or worsen, further evaluation may be necessary to ensure that no new retinal tears or detachments have occurred.

2. Black Cloud in Vision: The appearance of a "black cloud" in your vision can be concerning. This symptom may be related to changes in the vitreous gel (the clear gel that fills the space between the lens and the retina) or could indicate a more serious issue such as retinal detachment. The fact that it fades and reappears with eye movement or blinking suggests that it may be related to the vitreous pulling away from the retina, which is a common occurrence as we age. However, given your history of retinal issues, it’s essential to have this symptom evaluated promptly. Resting your eyes may help alleviate some discomfort, but it is not a substitute for medical evaluation.

3. Impact of Screen Time on Eye Health: Working long hours on a computer can lead to digital eye strain, which may exacerbate any existing eye conditions. The 50 minutes of screen time followed by a 10-minute break is a good practice to reduce eye fatigue. However, if you are experiencing significant symptoms, it may be beneficial to adjust your work habits further. Consider using artificial tears to keep your eyes moist, ensuring proper lighting, and possibly adjusting your screen settings to reduce glare. If your symptoms worsen with screen use, it may be worth discussing with your eye care provider about potential adjustments to your work environment or the need for specialized eyewear.

In summary, while some visual disturbances can be normal after laser treatment, persistent symptoms like flashes of light and black spots should be evaluated by an eye care professional. Regular follow-ups are essential to monitor your condition and prevent potential complications. Additionally, managing your screen time and ensuring proper eye care can help maintain your eye health. If you have any further questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider. Your vision is important, and taking proactive steps is key to preserving it.

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