Why Do Patterns Appear to Vibrate? Visual Disturbances

Seeing certain things can make you feel like they are vibrating?

Hello, Doctor.
In the past few days, I've noticed that the black and white checkered pattern on my bedsheet seems to be vibrating.
I visited the hospital for an examination, where my vision was measured at 250 in the left eye and 275 in the right eye, with astigmatism in the left eye ranging from 25 to 50.
My intraocular pressure was 23 and 24.
Three years ago, I had a corneal ulcer in my right eye, and at that time, my eye pressure was around 21.
This time, I hoped to have a fundus examination, but the doctor firmly refused, stating that they only used a machine with a light to examine my eyelids and concluded that there were no issues, thus no need for a fundus exam.
When I mentioned my higher eye pressure, she suggested it might be due to my thicker cornea.
Regarding the vibrating sensation I experience with certain objects, she said this could be a possible visual effect and advised me not to look at such things.
I would like to ask if I should go to another hospital to request a fundus examination.
I tend to get anxious, and my menstrual period just started, which made me quite nervous during the examination today.
I'm unsure if my eye pressure could be affected by this, but I really don't know what to do about the vibrating sensation with the black and white checkered pattern.
I would appreciate your response.
Thank you.

Mei, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/08/30

Dr. Cai Wenyuan reply Ophthalmology

Observe the symptoms, and if they persist, seek medical evaluation.

Reply Date: 2022/08/30

More Info

Visual disturbances, such as the perception of patterns vibrating or shimmering, can be a perplexing experience. These disturbances can arise from various underlying causes, and understanding them is crucial for addressing any potential concerns.

The phenomenon you described—seeing black and white checkered patterns appear to vibrate—can be attributed to several factors. One common explanation is related to the way our visual system processes contrasting patterns. When viewing high-contrast patterns, such as black and white stripes, the brain may misinterpret the signals from the retina, leading to the perception of movement or vibration. This is often referred to as the "Munker-White effect," where the interaction of colors and patterns can create an illusion of motion.

Another potential cause of visual disturbances is related to the health of the eyes themselves. Given your history of corneal ulceration and elevated intraocular pressure (IOP), it is essential to consider how these factors might influence your visual perception. Elevated IOP can be a risk factor for glaucoma, which can lead to visual field loss and other disturbances if left untreated. While your eye pressure readings of 23 and 24 mmHg are slightly above the normal range (typically considered to be 10-21 mmHg), it is essential to monitor these levels, especially in the context of your previous corneal issues.

The fact that your doctor did not perform a fundus examination may be concerning, especially given your symptoms and history. A thorough eye examination, including a dilated fundus exam, is crucial for assessing the health of the retina and optic nerve. This examination can help rule out conditions such as retinal detachment, macular degeneration, or other retinal pathologies that could contribute to visual disturbances.

Your anxiety during the examination could also play a role in your perception of visual disturbances. Stress and anxiety can heighten awareness of bodily sensations, including visual symptoms. It is not uncommon for individuals to experience increased sensitivity to visual stimuli when they are anxious or stressed.

Given your concerns and the complexity of your symptoms, it would be prudent to seek a second opinion from another ophthalmologist. Requesting a comprehensive eye examination, including a fundus examination, would provide a clearer picture of your eye health. It is essential to advocate for your health, especially when experiencing unusual visual symptoms.

In the meantime, consider implementing some strategies to reduce eye strain, especially if you spend extended periods looking at screens or patterns. The 20-20-20 rule can be beneficial: every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break to look at something 20 feet away. Additionally, ensure that your lighting is adequate when viewing patterns or screens to minimize glare and strain.

In summary, while the perception of vibrating patterns can be a benign visual phenomenon, it is essential to rule out any underlying ocular conditions, especially given your medical history. Seeking a second opinion and undergoing a comprehensive eye examination will help ensure that your eyes are healthy and that any potential issues are addressed promptly.

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