the Progression of Floaters in Myopia: Key Insights - Ophthalmology

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Hello! Thank you for your detailed questions regarding your eye health, particularly concerning floaters and myopia. It’s great that you’re seeking to understand these symptoms better, especially given your history of high myopia and floaters. Let’s address your questions one by one.

1. Anti-Blue Light Glasses and Screen Protectors: If you are already wearing anti-blue light glasses, using a screen protector is not strictly necessary, but it can still be beneficial. Screen protectors can reduce glare and reflections, which may help reduce eye strain, especially during prolonged computer use. However, the most important factor is taking regular breaks and practicing the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds.

2. Progression of Floaters: With high myopia, it is common to experience changes in floaters, including the appearance of new ones or changes in existing ones. The fact that you have noticed a thickening and elongation of the black strands, along with the presence of semi-transparent floaters, can indicate changes in the vitreous gel within your eyes. While this can be concerning, it does not necessarily mean your eye condition is worsening, especially since your retina has been checked and found to be intact. Floaters can become more noticeable under bright light conditions, which is consistent with your observations.

3. Changes in Floaters' Appearance: The elongation and increased mobility of your floaters can be a normal part of the aging process of the vitreous body, particularly in individuals with high myopia. As the vitreous gel liquefies and shrinks, it can lead to more pronounced floaters. The movement of floaters can also be influenced by eye movements, which may explain why you see them more frequently in certain positions. If your retina is healthy, these changes are generally not a cause for alarm.

4. Afterimages and Floaters: Seeing a line of text or any residual image after using the computer can be related to visual fatigue or afterimages, which are not uncommon after prolonged screen time. This phenomenon can occur due to the way our eyes and brain process visual information. While it may feel similar to floaters, it is typically a temporary effect and should resolve with rest.

5. Perception of Floaters with Closed Eyes: Experiencing the sensation of floaters or seeing them when your eyes are closed, especially upon waking, can be attributed to the way your brain processes visual information. Floaters are often more noticeable when the eyes are relaxed or in low-light conditions. This is a common experience among individuals with floaters and does not necessarily indicate a worsening condition.

In summary, while the presence of floaters can be concerning, especially in the context of high myopia, many changes are normal and can be attributed to the natural aging of the vitreous body. Regular check-ups with your eye care professional are essential to monitor your eye health, especially given your history. If you notice any sudden changes in your vision, such as an increase in floaters, flashes of light, or any loss of vision, it is crucial to seek immediate medical attention.

I hope this information helps clarify your concerns. Please continue to monitor your symptoms and maintain regular eye examinations. Wishing you all the best for your eye health!