Retinal issues
Hello doctor, about three months ago I visited a physician due to persistent black floaters in my vision.
I underwent dilation and OCT examinations, and the doctor said there were no issues.
However, this morning I suddenly noticed a different shape of floater, which is thin and elongated, whereas I previously saw curved or round shapes.
Additionally, I also noticed light flashes, which I experienced occasionally before but not as frequently.
Should I be concerned about this, or is this considered normal?
Yue, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/12/13
Dr. Liang Ce reply Ophthalmology
I recommend that you discuss the above situation further with your attending physician, focusing on symptom management or determining if further examinations are necessary.
Thank you, and wishing you good health!
Reply Date: 2022/12/13
More Info
When it comes to floaters in the eye, particularly for individuals with high myopia, it is essential to understand the nature of these visual disturbances and when they might indicate a more serious issue. Floaters are tiny specks or strands that drift through your field of vision, often appearing as black or gray shapes. They are typically caused by changes in the vitreous humor, the gel-like substance that fills the eye. As we age or due to certain conditions like high myopia, the vitreous can become more liquid, leading to the formation of floaters.
In your case, you mentioned that you have been experiencing floaters for an extended period, and you recently noticed a change in their shape and frequency. This change can be concerning, especially if you are seeing new types of floaters or if they are accompanied by flashes of light. While many floaters are harmless, a sudden increase in their number or a change in their appearance can sometimes indicate a more serious condition, such as a retinal tear or detachment.
Given your history of high myopia, it is important to be vigilant. High myopia is associated with a higher risk of retinal complications, including retinal tears and detachments, which can lead to vision loss if not treated promptly. The presence of new floaters, especially if they are accompanied by flashes of light or a shadow in your peripheral vision, warrants immediate attention from an eye care professional.
You mentioned that you had an eye examination three months ago, during which your doctor performed dilation and OCT (Optical Coherence Tomography) scans, and everything appeared normal. However, since you are now experiencing changes in your floaters, it would be prudent to schedule another appointment with your eye doctor. They may want to perform a thorough examination to rule out any potential issues, especially given your high myopia.
In terms of what you can do in the meantime, here are some recommendations:
1. Monitor Your Symptoms: Keep a close eye on any changes in your vision. If you notice an increase in floaters, new flashes of light, or any shadowing in your peripheral vision, seek medical attention immediately.
2. Regular Eye Exams: Given your history of high myopia and floaters, regular eye examinations are crucial. Your eye doctor can monitor the health of your retina and vitreous humor over time.
3. Protect Your Eyes: While it may not be possible to prevent floaters entirely, protecting your eyes from injury and managing your overall eye health can be beneficial. This includes wearing sunglasses to protect against UV light, maintaining a healthy diet rich in antioxidants, and managing any underlying health conditions.
4. Avoid Eye Strain: If you spend a lot of time on screens or reading, take regular breaks to reduce eye strain. The 20-20-20 rule is a good guideline: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds.
5. Stay Informed: Educate yourself about the signs and symptoms of retinal issues. Knowing what to look for can help you seek timely medical attention if necessary.
In conclusion, while floaters are often benign, changes in their appearance or an increase in their number should not be ignored, especially in individuals with high myopia. Regular check-ups and being proactive about your eye health are key to maintaining your vision and addressing any potential issues early on. If you have any concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out to your eye care provider for further evaluation.
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