Mysterious Transparent Objects in Your Vision - Ophthalmology

Share to:

There is a transparent object in the line of sight?


This week, I suddenly noticed a transparent object (it looks like a water droplet) in my left eye's field of vision.
It moves with my gaze and appears to float.
I went to an ophthalmologist for a dilated eye exam, and the doctor said they did not see any signs of floaters or any other issues.
The doctor could not explain the cause of this transparent object and did not know how to address it.
However, this transparent object has not disappeared.
I would like to know what this issue might be and whether further examination is necessary.
Thank you, doctor!

JOAN, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/11/20

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology


Hello Joan: Most cases of floaters are not visible during a doctor's examination; only the patient can see them.
Floaters themselves are harmless, and a dilated eye exam is performed to check for any retinal abnormalities.
If the examination shows no issues, you should be reassured.

Reply Date: 2021/11/20

More Info


The phenomenon you're experiencing, where a transparent object appears in your vision and moves with your gaze, can be quite perplexing. Based on your description, it sounds like you might be encountering a visual anomaly that could be related to several factors, including but not limited to visual disturbances, ocular health, or neurological conditions.

Firstly, it's important to understand that our visual system is complex and involves not just the eyes but also the brain's processing of visual information. The eyes capture light and images, which are then transmitted to the brain for interpretation. When you mention a transparent object that resembles a water droplet and moves with your gaze, it could be a type of visual phenomenon known as a "visual floaters" or "entoptic phenomena." However, since your eye doctor did not find any signs of floaters or other issues during the dilated eye exam, we need to consider other possibilities.

One potential explanation for the transparent object could be related to the vitreous humor, the gel-like substance that fills the eye. As we age, the vitreous can undergo changes, leading to the formation of floaters. However, if your doctor did not observe any floaters, this may not be the case for you. Another possibility is that what you're seeing could be a form of visual aura, which is often associated with migraines but can occur without a headache. These auras can manifest as various visual disturbances, including shimmering lights or transparent shapes.

Additionally, the brain's interpretation of visual stimuli can sometimes lead to the perception of objects that aren't physically present. This can occur due to various factors, including fatigue, stress, or even certain medications. If you're experiencing any other symptoms, such as headaches, changes in vision, or other neurological signs, it would be crucial to discuss these with your healthcare provider.

Given that the transparent object has persisted and your initial examination did not yield any conclusive results, it may be wise to seek further evaluation. This could include a more comprehensive eye examination with a specialist, such as a neuro-ophthalmologist, who can assess for any underlying neurological issues that might be contributing to your visual experience. Additionally, if you have a history of migraines or other neurological conditions, mentioning these to your doctor could provide valuable context for your symptoms.

In summary, while the transparent object you're seeing may not be immediately identifiable, it is essential to continue monitoring the situation and seek further evaluation if necessary. Keeping a record of any changes in your vision or accompanying symptoms can be helpful for your healthcare provider in determining the best course of action. Remember, your vision is vital, and any persistent changes warrant attention to ensure your ocular and overall health are maintained.

Similar Q&A

Seeing Grid Patterns Upon Waking: What Could It Mean?

Hello, doctor. For the past two days, when I wake up and open my eyes, I see a small image resembling a grid (like a tic-tac-toe board) on the ceiling, which disappears after a while. What could be the reason for this?


Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology
Hello: It's difficult to determine the cause. It could be an afterimage from the eyes; pay attention to see if there are objects in your home with similar shapes. It may also be a phenomenon known as floaters. If it continues to occur, it would be advisable to get it checked...

[Read More] Seeing Grid Patterns Upon Waking: What Could It Mean?


Understanding Floaters: What They Mean for Your Eye Health

Hello, doctor. When I look at the blue sky, I see objects that resemble floaters (worm-like, transparent like microorganisms under a microscope), but this phenomenon does not occur when I look at a white wall. I would like to ask if this situation could possibly be related to flo...


Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology
Hello: Based on your description, the appearance of worm-like, transparent floaters in your vision may be a symptom of vitreous floaters. Vitreous floaters are a common visual phenomenon, usually caused by the degeneration or liquefaction of the vitreous body, which can lead to t...

[Read More] Understanding Floaters: What They Mean for Your Eye Health


Understanding Visual Disturbances: Foggy Vision and Shadowy Edges

Hello Doctor, I have experienced traumatic hyphema in both eyes. Recently, I noticed that sometimes when I daydream, I have a foggy sensation in my vision, but it disappears as soon as I snap back to reality. What could this be? Additionally, I sometimes perform visual field test...


Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology
Hello, Xiao Han: It is possible that you are experiencing vitreous degeneration, commonly known as floaters, which may occur earlier due to a previous eye injury. You should get it checked; if the examination shows no issues, you can be reassured. Photopsia, in simple terms, is a...

[Read More] Understanding Visual Disturbances: Foggy Vision and Shadowy Edges


Understanding Visual Disturbances: A Neurological Perspective on Eye Symptoms

Hello doctor, I have autonomic nervous system dysfunction. Since February of this year, whenever I focus on an object for a prolonged period, that object appears to vibrate back and forth, although my eyes themselves do not shake. This sensation sometimes correlates with my heart...


Dr. Gao Chunde reply Neurology
These symptoms can often occur in healthy individuals and fall within the range of physiological responses, so there is no need for excessive concern. It seems that you have a keen sense of observation and are noticing subtle physiological changes in your nervous system. As long ...

[Read More] Understanding Visual Disturbances: A Neurological Perspective on Eye Symptoms


Related FAQ

Foreign Body Sensation In The Eye

(Ophthalmology)

Floaters

(Ophthalmology)

Eye Shadows

(Ophthalmology)

Foggy Vision

(Ophthalmology)

Visual Disturbance

(Ophthalmology)

Vision Discrepancy

(Ophthalmology)

Color Blindness

(Ophthalmology)

Visual Afterimages

(Ophthalmology)

Transient Monocular Blindness

(Ophthalmology)

Parallax

(Ophthalmology)