Common Eye Concerns: Retinal Detachment, Visual Afterimages, and Floaters

Q: Common Eye Concerns: Retinal Detachment, Visual Afterimages, and Floaters

Hello： 1. <br>There is basically no way to prevent it, but you can try to minimize head movements and eye impacts, and have regular check-ups. <br>If there is a tear, timely laser treatment is necessary. <br>Symptoms may include an increase in floaters, flashes of light, and shad

Some personal questions?

Hello, Doctor.
I have some personal questions I would like to ask:
1.
I have high myopia and am concerned about the risk of retinal detachment and tears.
What can I do to prevent these issues? If they occur, what symptoms should I look out for?
2.
I also experience visual persistence when looking at slightly brighter images.
Is this normal, or could there be a specific reason why this happens so easily?
3.
I have floaters and have been checked with no issues, but today I noticed some very small and transparent dots that appeared briefly and then disappeared.
I asked some online friends, and they mentioned that these could just be white blood cells and not to worry.
Is this true?
Thank you!

Star, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/05/04

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology

Hello: 1.
There is basically no way to prevent it, but you can try to minimize head movements and eye impacts, and have regular check-ups.
If there is a tear, timely laser treatment is necessary.
Symptoms may include an increase in floaters, flashes of light, and shadows.
2.
This is normal.
3.
It could be white blood cells; please refer to: https://bit.ly/2BGsbAO.
Department of Ophthalmology, Puzi Hospital, Taiwan: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM; Wednesday from 2:00 PM to 4:30 PM.
Online responses can only serve as a reference; it is essential to seek medical attention at a healthcare facility if needed.
I hope to have the opportunity to serve you.
Gao Pi-Lin.

Reply Date: 2021/05/04

More Info

Dear Patient,
Thank you for your inquiry regarding common eye concerns, particularly focusing on retinal detachment, visual afterimages, and floaters. Your concerns are valid, especially considering your history of high myopia, which can increase the risk of various eye conditions. Let’s address your questions one by one.

1. Preventing Retinal Detachment and Symptoms: High myopia is indeed a significant risk factor for retinal detachment. To help prevent this condition, it is crucial to have regular eye examinations, especially if you notice any changes in your vision. Symptoms of retinal detachment can include sudden flashes of light, an increase in floaters, a shadow or curtain effect over your vision, or a sudden decrease in vision. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is imperative to seek immediate medical attention. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including managing systemic conditions like diabetes and hypertension, can also contribute to eye health.

2. Visual Afterimages: Experiencing visual afterimages, especially when viewing bright screens or images, can be a normal phenomenon. This occurs due to the way our photoreceptors (rods and cones) in the retina respond to light. When exposed to bright light, these cells can become temporarily overstimulated, leading to afterimages. However, if you find that this is happening frequently or is accompanied by other symptoms like headaches or visual disturbances, it would be wise to consult with an eye care professional to rule out any underlying issues.

3. Floaters and New Visual Phenomena: Floaters are common, especially in individuals with high myopia. They are typically harmless and result from changes in the vitreous gel that fills the eye. The appearance of very small, transparent dots that disappear quickly could be related to the normal aging process of the vitreous or could be a transient phenomenon. While some people may speculate that these could be related to white blood cells, it is more likely that they are simply part of the normal floaters you experience. However, if you notice a sudden increase in floaters or any new visual disturbances, it is essential to have a thorough examination to ensure there are no serious underlying conditions.

In summary, while your concerns are understandable given your high myopia, regular eye check-ups and being aware of the symptoms of serious conditions like retinal detachment are key to maintaining your eye health. If you experience any sudden changes in your vision, do not hesitate to seek immediate medical attention.
It is also beneficial to practice good eye hygiene, such as taking breaks during prolonged screen time, ensuring proper lighting while reading or working, and wearing sunglasses to protect your eyes from UV light. Staying hydrated and maintaining a balanced diet rich in vitamins A, C, and E, as well as omega-3 fatty acids, can also support overall eye health.

Thank you for reaching out with your questions, and I hope this information provides clarity and reassurance regarding your eye health. Please feel free to ask if you have any further questions or concerns.

Best regards,
Doctor Q&A Teams

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