Visual Disturbances: Cross Shapes and High Myopia Concerns - Ophthalmology

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Hello,
Thank you for your detailed description of your visual disturbances. It sounds like you are experiencing a complex set of symptoms that may be related to your high myopia and the presence of floaters. Let's break down your concerns and explore the potential connections to your eye health.

Firstly, the phenomenon of seeing cross shapes or other patterns superimposed on your visual field, especially when looking at a patterned background like a square graphic, could be attributed to a few factors. One possibility is related to the way your brain processes visual information. High myopia can lead to changes in the structure of the eye, including the retina and the vitreous humor. These changes can sometimes cause visual distortions or anomalies, such as seeing patterns or shapes that aren't actually present in the external environment.

The presence of floaters, which you mentioned, is common in individuals with high myopia. Floaters are tiny clumps of gel or cells that form in the vitreous humor, the clear gel that fills the eye. As the vitreous shrinks or changes with age or due to myopia, these floaters can become more noticeable, especially against a bright or patterned background. The fact that you are experiencing an increase in floaters could be related to the vitreous changes associated with high myopia.

You also mentioned that your eye doctor noted thinning of the retina during your last examination. This is a significant finding, as retinal thinning can increase the risk of retinal detachment, especially in individuals with high myopia. The thinning of the retina may contribute to the visual disturbances you are experiencing, as it can affect how light is processed by the retina and subsequently interpreted by the brain.

In terms of the specific visual disturbances you are describing—seeing cross shapes or other patterns—this could also be a form of visual distortion known as metamorphopsia. Metamorphopsia is often associated with conditions affecting the retina, such as macular degeneration or retinal tears. However, in your case, it may be more closely related to the structural changes in your eye due to high myopia and the associated retinal thinning.

Given your symptoms and the findings from your eye examinations, it is crucial to maintain regular follow-ups with your eye care provider. They can monitor the health of your retina and vitreous humor, ensuring that any changes are addressed promptly. If you notice any sudden changes in your vision, such as an increase in the number of floaters, flashes of light, or a shadow in your peripheral vision, you should seek immediate medical attention, as these could be signs of a retinal detachment.

In summary, the visual disturbances you are experiencing, including the perception of cross shapes over patterned backgrounds, may be linked to your high myopia and the associated changes in your vitreous and retinal structure. Regular monitoring and communication with your eye care provider are essential to managing your eye health effectively.
Take care, and I hope this information helps clarify your concerns.