Eye Floaters: Causes and Concerns for Your Vision - Ophthalmology

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Hello! It's great that you're seeking to understand more about your eye health, particularly regarding floaters and the visual disturbances you're experiencing. Floaters, or "myodesopsia," are common and often harmless visual phenomena that many people encounter, especially as they age. They appear as small spots, threads, or cobweb-like shapes that drift across your field of vision, and they are typically caused by changes in the vitreous humor—the gel-like substance that fills the eye.

In your case, the presence of two rotating black spots that appear outdoors and last for about 20 minutes before disappearing could be attributed to several factors. First, it's important to note that floaters can become more noticeable in bright light conditions, such as when you're outside. This is because the contrast between the bright background and the floaters makes them more apparent. The fact that they disappear after a short duration suggests that they may be related to temporary changes in the vitreous or even the way your eyes are responding to light.

Another possibility is that what you're experiencing could be related to a phenomenon known as "visual snow" or "entoptic phenomena," where you perceive visual disturbances that are not caused by external stimuli. This can sometimes occur in bright environments or after prolonged exposure to screens, leading to temporary visual disturbances.

Since you've mentioned that you've had your retina checked and there are no signs of detachment, that is reassuring. Retinal detachment is a serious condition that can lead to permanent vision loss, and it's good to know that your eye care professional has ruled that out. However, if you continue to experience these symptoms or if they worsen, it would be wise to follow up with your eye doctor for further evaluation. They may recommend additional tests, such as a more detailed optical coherence tomography (OCT) scan, to assess the vitreous and retina more closely.

It's also worth considering that anxiety about your vision can exacerbate the perception of floaters or other visual disturbances. If you find yourself worrying excessively about your symptoms, it might be helpful to discuss these feelings with your healthcare provider, as they can offer strategies to manage anxiety and help you feel more at ease regarding your eye health.

In summary, while floaters are typically benign, the specific symptoms you're experiencing—especially the transient nature of the black spots—warrant monitoring. If they persist or change in nature, don't hesitate to seek further medical advice. Maintaining regular eye exams is crucial, especially if you have a history of floaters or other visual disturbances. Remember to protect your eyes from excessive strain and bright light, and consider taking breaks during prolonged visual tasks. Your eye health is important, and staying informed is a key part of maintaining it.