Peripheral Blurriness and Physiological Blind Spots in Vision - Ophthalmology

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Hello! Thank you for your detailed inquiry regarding your visual symptoms. It sounds like you are experiencing a complex set of visual phenomena, and I will do my best to address your questions based on the information provided.

1. Size of the Blind Spot: The physiological blind spot is a normal part of human vision, located where the optic nerve exits the eye. Typically, this blind spot is about the size of a dime or a small coin, not the size of a fist. If you perceive your blind spot to be as large as your fist when extending your arm, this may warrant further investigation, as it could indicate an abnormality.

2. Differences Between Eyes: It is not uncommon for individuals to have slight variations in the size of their blind spots between their two eyes. However, significant differences should be evaluated by an eye care professional, as they could indicate underlying issues.

3. Perception of Blind Spot Size: If you feel that your blind spot has increased in size or that you are more aware of it now than before, it could be due to heightened sensitivity or changes in your visual processing. The brain typically compensates for the blind spot, so if you are noticing it more, it might be worth discussing with your doctor. An enlarged blind spot could potentially be associated with certain conditions, but it is not typical for the physiological blind spot to expand significantly.

4. Conditions Associated with Blind Spot Enlargement: An increase in the size of the blind spot can be associated with various conditions, including optic nerve damage, retinal detachment, or other neurological issues. If there is a concern about changes in your blind spot, a thorough examination by an ophthalmologist or neurologist is advisable.

5. Distortion Near the Blind Spot: The distortion you are experiencing near the blind spot could be related to refractive errors, such as astigmatism or other optical issues. However, it could also be a result of how your brain is interpreting visual information from the affected area. It is essential to have this evaluated to rule out any underlying conditions.

6. Peripheral Blurriness and Floaters: Peripheral blurriness can be caused by several factors, including floaters, which are common and usually benign. However, they can also be indicative of retinal issues or other eye conditions. Given your history of floaters (known as "vitreous floaters"), it is essential to monitor any changes in your vision closely.

7. Need for Further Testing: Since you have had recent OCT and visual field tests that returned normal results, it may not be immediately necessary to repeat these tests unless your symptoms change or worsen. However, if you continue to experience significant visual disturbances, it is prudent to follow up with your eye care provider for further evaluation.

In summary, while some of the symptoms you describe may be related to normal physiological processes, others could indicate underlying issues that require further investigation. It is essential to maintain open communication with your healthcare providers and report any changes in your symptoms. Regular eye examinations and possibly consultations with specialists in neurology or retina can help ensure that any potential problems are identified and managed appropriately. Thank you for your questions, and I wish you the best in your journey toward understanding and improving your visual health!