Why Do Letters on Screens Look Different? Visual Changes

Q: Why Do Letters on Screens Look Different? Visual Changes

Hello： The most common issue associated with shape changes is related to the macula. <br>Of course, there are also some refractive problems that could contribute to this. <br>If the current examination shows no issues, it may indicate that the condition is still mild, and continu

Changes in the shape of letters as seen by the eyes?

Hello Doctor: Recently, while looking at my computer or phone screen, I noticed that the text on the computer appeared wide and flat, and sometimes I felt that the screen looked slightly tilted (though I'm not sure if this is just an illusion).
After a preliminary examination at the clinic, the doctor indicated that there was no major issue.
After using artificial tears and eye drops for about a week, I suddenly noticed that the text on the screen looked different from the previous week; it appeared relatively longer and thinner.
I then went to a larger hospital for further examinations, including OCT and dilation tests, and the doctor also stated that aside from mild exotropia, there were no significant problems, and no signs of fluid accumulation or lesions were observed.
However, I am puzzled as to why this is happening.
Therefore, I would like to consult with you, thank you!

Howard, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/12/06

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology

Hello: The most common issue associated with shape changes is related to the macula.
Of course, there are also some refractive problems that could contribute to this.
If the current examination shows no issues, it may indicate that the condition is still mild, and continuous monitoring should suffice.

Reply Date: 2022/12/06

More Info

When you notice that letters on screens appear different, such as looking wider or distorted, it can be attributed to several factors related to visual perception and eye health. Your experience of seeing letters as "stretched" or "squished" can be influenced by a variety of conditions, including refractive errors, eye strain, and even the effects of screen settings.

Firstly, it’s essential to understand that our visual system is complex and can be affected by how our eyes focus on objects. If you have any refractive errors, such as myopia (nearsightedness) or hyperopia (farsightedness), this can lead to distortions in how you perceive shapes and letters. For instance, if one eye has a different prescription than the other, it can create a disparity in how images are processed, leading to visual distortions. This could explain why you sometimes perceive letters as being wider or narrower.

Another factor to consider is eye strain, which is common among individuals who spend extended periods looking at screens. Symptoms of digital eye strain can include blurred vision, dry eyes, and difficulty focusing. The use of artificial tears, as you mentioned, can help alleviate dryness, but if the strain persists, it may be beneficial to take regular breaks using the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds. This practice can help reduce fatigue and improve your overall visual comfort.

The phenomenon of seeing letters differently after using eye drops could also be related to changes in your tear film. Artificial tears can temporarily improve the clarity of your vision by providing a smoother surface on the cornea, which may make letters appear sharper or differently shaped. However, if the effect is inconsistent, it might indicate that your eyes are still adjusting to the changes in moisture levels or that there are underlying issues that need to be addressed.

You mentioned that you underwent various eye examinations, including Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) and dilation tests, which ruled out significant pathologies. This is reassuring, but it’s also important to consider that subtle changes in the retina or the macula can sometimes lead to visual distortions. For example, conditions like macular degeneration or retinal thinning can cause changes in how you perceive shapes and letters, although these would typically present with more persistent symptoms.

Additionally, the perception of letters appearing distorted or misaligned could also be a result of visual illusions or the way your brain interprets visual information. Sometimes, the arrangement of letters or the background can create an optical illusion, making them appear differently than they are. This is particularly true with certain fonts or when viewing screens at an angle.

In conclusion, while your eye examinations have not revealed any significant issues, the changes in how you perceive letters on screens can stem from a combination of refractive errors, eye strain, and possibly even the effects of your environment or screen settings. If these symptoms persist or worsen, it would be wise to consult with an eye care professional who can provide a more comprehensive evaluation and possibly suggest corrective measures, such as updated prescriptions or specific exercises to help alleviate visual discomfort. Regular follow-ups are also essential to monitor any changes in your vision over time.

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