Retinal Diseases: Symptoms, Management, and Nutritional Support

Q: Retinal Diseases: Symptoms, Management, and Nutritional Support

Hello： 1. <br>Lutein, astaxanthin, and fish oil may help improve retinal health, but the specific effects of these nutrients still require further research for validation. <br>Avoiding blue light exposure is also an effective method for protecting the eyes. <br>2. <br>To determin

Retinal diseases

Hello Doctor, I am the person who previously inquired about night blindness.
In early November, I suddenly developed floaters, and this year I was diagnosed with pigmentary retinopathy.
Since December, I have been working on the computer for 8 hours a day, and my eyes started to experience flashes.
By mid-January, I noticed that peripheral vision would flash, especially at night.
During the day, looking at the sky with sunlight also causes flashes, and I have started to experience photophobia, seeing afterimages that vibrate.
I also experience flashes indoors, and my central vision flashes as well.
I am sensitive to changes in light and need to wear sunglasses in sunlight.
This month, I underwent an examination that indicated peripheral retinal degeneration, but there are no holes in the retina.
I would like to ask if the intermittent afterimages I see are also one of the symptoms of retinitis pigmentosa (RP), as the flashing symptoms have been persistent and uncomfortable for me.

1.
Will increasing my intake of lutein, astaxanthin, and fish oil help alleviate the flashing symptoms, or should I focus more on reducing blue light exposure to relieve the symptoms?
2.
I have not yet undergone an electroretinogram or genetic testing; will I need to wait for these tests to know more?
3.
Is there a connection between retinal degeneration and the sudden onset of floaters?
4.
I am considering purchasing vitamin A; what is the recommended daily dosage for supplementation? Thank you.
🙏

Ye Mang Huan Zhe, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/02/12

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology

Hello: 1.
Lutein, astaxanthin, and fish oil may help improve retinal health, but the specific effects of these nutrients still require further research for validation.
Avoiding blue light exposure is also an effective method for protecting the eyes.
2.
To determine if you have any eye diseases, you need to undergo examinations, including retinal imaging and genetic testing, to establish a diagnosis.
3.
Retinal degeneration and the sudden onset of floaters are not necessarily related, but the specific situation can only be determined through professional diagnosis.
4.
The recommended daily intake of vitamin A varies from person to person, so it is advisable to consult your physician or nutritionist to ensure you do not consume excessive amounts of vitamin A.

Reply Date: 2023/02/12

More Info

Understanding retinal diseases, particularly conditions like retinitis pigmentosa (RP) and other retinal degenerative diseases, is crucial for managing symptoms and maintaining eye health. Your experience with symptoms such as floaters, flashes of light, and increased sensitivity to light indicates that you are dealing with significant ocular issues, which can be distressing. Let's break down your questions and concerns regarding nutritional support, symptom management, and the relationship between retinal diseases and your symptoms.

1. Nutritional Support: Nutrients play a vital role in eye health, particularly for individuals with retinal diseases. Key nutrients include:
- Lutein and Zeaxanthin: These carotenoids are found in high concentrations in the retina and are known to protect against oxidative stress. Foods rich in these nutrients include leafy greens (like spinach and kale), corn, and egg yolks.

- Omega-3 Fatty Acids (DHA and EPA): Found in fish oil, these fatty acids are essential for retinal health and may help reduce inflammation. Fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, and sardines are excellent sources.

- Vitamin A: This vitamin is crucial for maintaining good vision, especially in low-light conditions. It is found in foods like carrots, sweet potatoes, and liver. The recommended daily allowance (RDA) for adults is about 900 micrograms for men and 700 micrograms for women, but it's essential to consult with a healthcare provider before starting supplements to avoid toxicity.

- Antioxidants: Vitamins C and E, along with minerals like zinc, help protect the retina from oxidative damage. Citrus fruits, nuts, seeds, and whole grains are good sources.

2. Managing Symptoms: Your symptoms of flashes and floaters can be distressing. While dietary changes can support overall eye health, they may not directly alleviate acute symptoms. Reducing exposure to blue light from screens by using blue light filters or glasses can help minimize discomfort. Additionally, taking regular breaks from screen time (the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds) can reduce eye strain.

3. Relationship Between Retinal Diseases and Symptoms: Retinal diseases like RP can lead to various visual disturbances, including the symptoms you describe. The flashes of light and floaters can be related to changes in the vitreous gel of the eye, which is common in individuals with retinal degeneration. While these symptoms can be alarming, they do not always indicate a severe problem, but they should be monitored closely by an eye care professional.

4. Further Testing: It is advisable to undergo comprehensive eye examinations, including retinal imaging and possibly genetic testing, to understand the extent of your condition better. These tests can provide valuable information about the health of your retina and help guide treatment options.

In conclusion, while nutritional support can play a role in maintaining eye health, it is essential to combine this with regular eye examinations and consultations with eye care professionals. They can provide tailored advice based on your specific condition and symptoms. If you have concerns about your vitamin A intake or any other supplements, discussing these with a healthcare provider is crucial to ensure safe and effective management of your eye health.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Retinal Issues in Multiple Myeloma Patients: Symptoms and Solutions

Hello Doctor, I was diagnosed with multiple myeloma about two years ago, and after treatment, my symptoms stabilized for a year. Recently, however, my left eye suddenly became blurry and I couldn't see clearly. I visited the ophthalmology department at the hospital, and the ...

Dr. Chen Sirong reply Oncology
Zhang Ren'an / 72 years old / Male Your questions may exceed my ability to answer, please forgive me. 1. Are there more definitive examination methods for these eye symptoms? (e.g., fluorescein angiography) A: This should be directed to an ophthalmologist. The hematologi...

Understanding Gyrate and Stargardt's Diseases: Symptoms, Risks, and Prevention

Dear Dr. Yang, 1. Gyrate Atrophy: This condition is characterized by progressive degeneration of the retina, leading to symptoms such as night blindness, peripheral vision loss, and eventual central vision loss. Patients may also experience changes in color vision. The disease i...

Dr. Liu Jingxian reply Ophthalmology
Hello Sir: Gyrate Atrophy: This is a bilateral, progressive degenerative disease of the retina (retinal choroid). Patients typically begin to exhibit symptoms around the age of 20, characterized by night blindness, constricted visual fields, and decreased vision. It is associat...

Essential Nutrients for Managing Optic Nerve Atrophy

Due to optic nerve atrophy in the right eye, which raises concerns about potential blindness, what dietary changes should be made in terms of increased intake and avoidance? What specific aspects should be monitored?

Dr. Xie Huimin reply Nutrition
There are many causes of optic nerve atrophy, and treatment should primarily focus on the underlying disease. It is recommended to maintain a balanced diet, and you may consider supplementing with nutrients that support nerve conduction, such as B vitamins. Avoid consuming irrita...

Essential Nutrients for Eye Health: Protecting Your Vision

Hello, doctor. Could you please tell me what foods or nutrients are beneficial for the lens, vitreous body, and retina of the eyes? Specifically for individuals with myopia, what nutrients can help delay the onset of floaters and aid in the prevention of retinal tears?

Dr. Cai Xiuwen reply Nutrition
Nutrients that affect eye health include Vitamin A: A deficiency can lead to night blindness, and long-term lack can cause dry eyes, fatigue, corneal abrasion, and vision impairment, which are common symptoms of dry eye syndrome. Vitamin B1 and Niacin: A deficiency can result in ...