High Myopia: Risks, Symptoms, and Eye Care Tips

Q: High Myopia: Risks, Symptoms, and Eye Care Tips

Hello, Mr. <br>Shuangji： <br>1. <br>Although 800 degrees indicates high myopia, if there is no significant degeneration upon examination and no pathological changes are present, the risk of blindness should be low. <br>As long as you have regular check-ups and maintain healthy ey

Various Issues Related to the Eyes

Dear Dr.
Gao,
I previously visited a clinic for a fundus examination due to the appearance of floaters in my eyes.
After a thorough examination, the doctor calmly stated that there were no significant issues with my retina, but due to my high myopia, there is some degeneration of the retina and optic nerve, and I have experienced some vitreous opacities.
Hearing that I have high myopia, along with numerous media reports indicating that it can lead to various complications and even the risk of blindness, has made me quite worried, especially since my work involves extensive eye use.
Therefore, I have several questions I would like to ask you in this situation:
1.
Is it true, as the media suggests, that high myopia (~800 diopters) is incurable and can lead to blindness? Or can it be managed with good eye care habits? Additionally, will the retinal degeneration and vitreous opacities mentioned by the doctor continue to worsen, or is there a chance for them to stabilize or even improve?
2.
I have noticed several changes:
a.
When I sleep or close my eyes, it does not go completely dark; instead, I see geometric shapes of white light, halos, or noise.
b.
In dim light or when looking down, I seem to see a faint white mist that disappears on its own.
c.
Sometimes, objects appear to have a fluid-like quality, and I notice wave-like patterns at the edges of my vision.
d.
When looking at streetlights, I notice a white halo around the bulb (it's difficult to describe, but I can only refer to it this way).
Is this related to the vitreous opacities? Do I need to undergo further examinations?
3.
A rather silly question: if I experience an eye emergency on a weekend when the ophthalmology clinic is closed, can the emergency department of a general hospital handle it, or would I have to wait until the clinic opens the next day?
I have many questions, and I apologize if they seem foolish.
I sincerely hope you can clarify these concerns for me.
Thank you!

Shuang Ji, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/10/09

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology

Hello, Mr.
Shuangji:
1.
Although 800 degrees indicates high myopia, if there is no significant degeneration upon examination and no pathological changes are present, the risk of blindness should be low.
As long as you have regular check-ups and maintain healthy eye habits without overexertion, there is no need for concern.
2.
This is likely caused by the vitreous body, along with photopsia, which is a normal physiological phenomenon.
3.
Any hospital above the level of a general regional hospital with an ophthalmology emergency department can provide prompt examination and treatment.
In emergency situations, delays can sometimes be detrimental.

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 can only serve as a reference; it is necessary to seek medical attention at a healthcare facility when needed.
I hope to have the opportunity to serve you.

Gao Pilin

Reply Date: 2020/10/09

More Info

High myopia, often defined as a refractive error greater than -6.00 diopters, poses significant risks to eye health, including complications that can lead to vision loss. Your concerns about the potential for blindness and the implications of your symptoms are valid, especially given the media reports highlighting the dangers associated with high myopia. Let’s address your questions systematically.

1. Is high myopia truly incurable and does it lead to blindness?
High myopia is indeed associated with a higher risk of serious eye conditions, including retinal detachment, macular degeneration, and glaucoma. However, it is not entirely "incurable." While the structural changes in the eye due to high myopia can lead to complications, maintaining good eye care practices can significantly mitigate these risks. Regular eye examinations, proper management of any existing conditions, and protective measures (like wearing appropriate eyewear) can help preserve vision. The retinal degeneration and vitreous opacities you mentioned can stabilize, and in some cases, with proper treatment and care, improvements can be seen.
2. Regarding the changes you’ve noticed:
a. The geometric shapes and white light you see when your eyes are closed could be related to the vitreous gel's changes as it becomes more liquefied and can lead to floaters or flashes of light.
b. The white mist you observe in low light may also be associated with vitreous changes or even early signs of cataracts, which can develop in high myopia patients.

c. The fluid sensation and water-like patterns you see could be due to the same vitreous changes or possibly related to the way light refracts through the eye.

d. The halos around lights, especially at night, are common in individuals with high myopia and can be exacerbated by changes in the vitreous or corneal irregularities.

Given these symptoms, it would be prudent to have a follow-up examination. An optical coherence tomography (OCT) scan could provide detailed images of the retina and vitreous, helping to assess any potential issues more accurately.

3. Emergency care for eye issues:
In the event of an eye emergency when your ophthalmologist's office is closed, you should seek care at the nearest hospital emergency department. While they may not have the specialized equipment or expertise of an ophthalmologist, they can provide initial assessment and treatment for acute conditions. If the situation is serious, they can refer you to an eye specialist for further care.

In summary, while high myopia does carry risks, proactive management and regular check-ups can help maintain your vision and eye health. It’s essential to stay vigilant about any changes in your vision and to seek medical advice promptly when needed. Your symptoms warrant further investigation, and it’s always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to eye health.

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