Symmetrical Transparent Circles in Vision: Causes and Concerns

Q: Symmetrical Transparent Circles in Vision: Causes and Concerns

Hello： Based on the symptoms you described, it is still insufficient for a definitive diagnosis, so further examination under a doctor's guidance is recommended. <br>Regarding your questions： 1. <br>The transparent circles themselves are not a typical symptom of glaucoma, but gla

Symmetrical transparent rings appear in both eyes?

Hello, Doctor.
Two days ago, I noticed that when I turn my head to look at things, I see almost transparent circles in my vision.
When I turn my neck to the left, I see an almost transparent circle on the right side of my right eye, and the circle appears to grow larger as I turn further left.
Similarly, when I turn my neck to the right, I experience the same phenomenon on the left side of my left eye.
I visited an ophthalmologist who diagnosed me with retinal lattice degeneration in my right eye and scheduled a laser treatment for next week.
However, the transparent circles are symmetrical in both eyes and seem to become more pronounced each day upon waking.
I would like to ask you: 1.
Could this be a symptom of glaucoma, macular degeneration, or an issue with the optic nerve? 2.
Or could this be related to other health issues affecting my eyes or optic nerve? 3.
Is there a need for further examinations as soon as possible for this symptom? I apologize for bothering you with these questions, but I truly don't know what to do.
Thank you.

Hua, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/02/19

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology

Hello: Based on the symptoms you described, it is still insufficient for a definitive diagnosis, so further examination under a doctor's guidance is recommended.
Regarding your questions: 1.
The transparent circles themselves are not a typical symptom of glaucoma, but glaucoma can cause symptoms such as blurred vision, eye pain, and increased intraocular pressure.
Macular issues are usually associated with blurred or distorted vision, while optic nerve problems may lead to blurred vision and eye pain.
2.
Issues in other parts of the body can affect the health of the eyes or optic nerve, such as hypertension, diabetes, and thyroid disorders.
Therefore, further examination is advised to determine possible underlying causes.
However, your issues should not be related to these conditions.
3.
Since retinal lattice degeneration may be a symptom of eye disease, it is recommended to undergo additional examinations as advised by your physician.
Retinal lattice degeneration can lead to retinal tears, which may result in retinal detachment, which is why your doctor suggested laser treatment as a preventive measure.

Reply Date: 2023/02/19

More Info

Hello,
Thank you for reaching out with your concerns regarding the visual symptoms you are experiencing. Based on your description of seeing symmetrical transparent circles when turning your head, it is understandable that you are feeling anxious about the potential underlying causes. Let’s address your questions one by one.

1. Possibility of Glaucoma, Macular Issues, or Optic Nerve Problems: The symptoms you describe, particularly the appearance of transparent circles that change size with head movement, are not typical for glaucoma. Glaucoma usually presents with peripheral vision loss, eye pain, and sometimes halos around lights, but not typically with transparent circles. Macular degeneration can cause distortion in vision, but it usually does not present as symmetrical transparent circles. Optic nerve issues can lead to various visual disturbances, including blurriness and color changes, but again, the specific symptom of transparent circles is not commonly associated with optic nerve problems. Given that your eye doctor has noted retinal lattice degeneration (視網膜格子化), it is crucial to monitor this condition, as it can lead to more serious issues like retinal tears or detachment.

2. Impact of Other Health Conditions: It is possible for systemic health issues to affect your vision. Conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, or thyroid disorders can lead to changes in the eyes and vision. However, the specific symptom of transparent circles is less likely to be directly caused by these systemic issues. It is essential to maintain regular check-ups with your healthcare provider to monitor any underlying health conditions that could potentially impact your eye health.

3. Need for Further Examination: Given that you are experiencing a noticeable increase in the visibility of these transparent circles, it is advisable to follow up with your eye doctor as soon as possible. The fact that your doctor has already scheduled a laser procedure indicates that they are taking your condition seriously. It is essential to address retinal lattice degeneration promptly, as it can lead to complications if not monitored and treated appropriately. Additionally, if you notice any sudden changes in your vision, such as flashes of light, a sudden increase in floaters, or a curtain-like shadow over your vision, you should seek immediate medical attention.

In summary, while your symptoms are concerning, they do not directly indicate glaucoma, macular degeneration, or optic nerve issues. However, the presence of retinal lattice degeneration requires careful monitoring. It is crucial to maintain open communication with your eye care provider and report any changes in your symptoms. Regular eye examinations are vital for maintaining eye health, especially given your current symptoms.

If you have any further questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to reach out. Your eye health is important, and it’s always best to stay informed and proactive about any changes you experience.

Take care, and I wish you the best in your upcoming appointments.

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