the White Fog Phenomenon in Eye Health Issues - Ophthalmology

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White mist phenomenon


Doctor, for a year now, my left eye has completely turned "cloudy." A friend of mine described it as "cataract." Have you heard of this condition?

Julie, 50~59 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/08/22

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology


Hello Julie: The cornea has completely become "milky," which may indicate corneal opacification or mature cataracts.
As for "cloudy round," I have not heard of that term.

Reply Date: 2021/08/22

More Info


The phenomenon you are describing, often referred to as "white fog" or "clouding" in the eye, can be indicative of several underlying conditions, particularly involving the cornea or lens of the eye. In your case, the term "白霧化" (white fogging) suggests that there may be a significant change in the clarity of your eye's structures, which could be due to a number of factors.

One common cause of a white or cloudy appearance in the eye is cataracts. Cataracts occur when the lens of the eye becomes cloudy, leading to blurred vision, difficulty seeing at night, and sensitivity to light. While cataracts are more commonly associated with aging, they can also develop due to other factors such as prolonged exposure to UV light, diabetes, smoking, and certain medications.

Another potential cause could be corneal opacities or scarring. The cornea is the clear front surface of the eye, and any damage or disease affecting it can lead to cloudiness. Conditions such as keratitis (inflammation of the cornea), corneal dystrophies (genetic disorders affecting the cornea), or previous injuries can result in a cloudy appearance.

In your case, since you mentioned that your left eye has been completely "white fogged" for about a year, it is crucial to seek a thorough examination from an ophthalmologist. They can perform a detailed assessment, including visual acuity tests, slit-lamp examination, and possibly imaging studies to determine the exact cause of your symptoms.

It is also important to consider the impact of other health conditions. For instance, systemic diseases like diabetes can lead to changes in the eye, including cataracts and diabetic retinopathy, which can also contribute to visual disturbances. If you have a history of eye issues or systemic health problems, these factors should be discussed with your healthcare provider.

In terms of management, the treatment will depend on the underlying cause of the white fogging. If cataracts are diagnosed, surgical intervention may be necessary to restore clarity to your vision. For corneal issues, treatments may range from medications to manage inflammation to surgical options like corneal transplantation in severe cases.

In addition to medical treatment, maintaining good eye health is essential. This includes regular eye exams, protecting your eyes from UV light by wearing sunglasses, managing systemic health conditions, and avoiding smoking. If you experience any sudden changes in vision, pain, or discomfort, it is crucial to seek immediate medical attention.

In summary, the "white fog" phenomenon in your eye could be indicative of cataracts, corneal opacities, or other ocular conditions. A comprehensive evaluation by an eye care professional is essential to determine the exact cause and appropriate treatment. Regular monitoring and proactive eye care can help maintain your vision and overall eye health.

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