Unusual Black Spots in Vision: Beyond Floaters and Eye Aging

Q: Unusual Black Spots in Vision: Beyond Floaters and Eye Aging

Hello： The symptoms you described may be related to various eye issues, including vitreous floaters, retinal diseases, and lens problems, among others. <br>Since you have been regularly undergoing fundus examinations at a major hospital and your doctor has confirmed that the stru

Seeing black spots that are different from floaters?

Hello, doctor.
I do not have myopia, but I have been experiencing floaters for about ten years, and dry eye syndrome for nearly the same duration.
A few years ago, a doctor mentioned that I have congenital cataracts.
Recently, there have been changes in my floaters: 1.
Occasionally, I see a very dark spot in my vision that becomes clearly visible when I close my eyes.
It slowly disappears after about two seconds of moving my eyes.
Sometimes it appears as a white spot, and other times, when I open my eyes, I see a white spot that turns into a black spot when I close my eyes, then disappears (or I see a black spot that turns into a white spot when I close my eyes, then disappears).
This is different from the usual floaters I experience, and I would like to know what this could be.
It also occurs in low-light environments.
2.
Sometimes, when I look at "gray-black objects," numerous black spots appear and flicker, requiring me to focus on them for a while before they disappear.
3.
Upon waking in a dimly lit room, I notice a grayish, misty shadow approximately in the center of my pupil, but this disappears once the lights are turned on.
I have been regularly undergoing fundus examinations at a major hospital, and the doctors have stated that the structure of my eyes is intact.
However, I have not received answers regarding my symptoms, and I would like to know if this is indicative of any pathological changes or if it is simply due to aging of the eyes.
Thank you.

Niming, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/03/31

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology

Hello: The symptoms you described may be related to various eye issues, including vitreous floaters, retinal diseases, and lens problems, among others.
Since you have been regularly undergoing fundus examinations at a major hospital and your doctor has confirmed that the structure of your eyeball is intact, this situation may simply be a normal phenomenon of aging eyes.

1.
The black and white spots may be caused by vitreous floaters.
As we age, the gel-like substance in the vitreous body becomes more liquid and forms snowflake-like fragments.
These fragments float within the eyeball and can cause visual disturbances as the eye moves.
The black and white spots you described may be due to the movement of these vitreous fragments within the eye.
2.
The numerous flashing black spots may be related to the retina.
This could be due to certain cells in the eye not functioning properly, which may lead to visual disturbances when looking at gray or black objects.
3.
The grayish, hazy shadows may be caused by issues with the lens or cornea of the eye.
This condition can lead to blurred vision or shadows, but may disappear as the eyes adjust to indoor lighting.
However, the most likely cause remains vitreous floaters.

Reply Date: 2023/03/31

More Info

The symptoms you are experiencing, including the presence of unusual black spots, floaters, and transient visual disturbances, can be concerning, especially given your history of eye conditions. Let’s break down your symptoms and explore potential causes based on current medical understanding.

1. Floaters and Black Spots: Floaters are typically caused by changes in the vitreous humor, the gel-like substance that fills the eye. As we age, the vitreous can become more liquid, and tiny clumps of gel or cells can form, casting shadows on the retina, which we perceive as floaters. However, the sudden appearance of new floaters or changes in existing floaters, especially if accompanied by flashes of light or a shadow in your peripheral vision, can indicate a more serious condition, such as a retinal tear or detachment. Given that you have experienced a change in your floaters, it is crucial to have regular eye examinations to monitor these changes.

2. Transient Visual Disturbances: The phenomenon where you see black or white spots that change with eye movement or when closing your eyes could be related to several factors. One possibility is that these spots are related to the way light interacts with the vitreous and retina. When you close your eyes, the pressure on the eye can cause the vitreous to shift, leading to transient visual effects. Additionally, these could be related to the phenomenon known as "phosphene," where mechanical stimulation of the retina (like pressing on the eyes) causes the perception of light.

3. Visual Disturbances in Low Light: The gray or hazy shadows you see upon waking in low light conditions may be related to the way your eyes adjust to different lighting. In dim environments, the rod cells in your retina, which are responsible for vision in low light, may not be functioning optimally, leading to temporary visual disturbances. This is generally not a cause for concern unless it persists or worsens.

4. Potential Underlying Conditions: Given your history of congenital cataracts and dry eye syndrome, it’s essential to consider how these conditions might interact with your current symptoms. Congenital cataracts can lead to visual disturbances, and dry eyes can exacerbate discomfort and visual clarity. Regular check-ups with an ophthalmologist are vital to monitor these conditions and ensure that no new complications arise.

5. Importance of Regular Eye Exams: Since you have been diligent about having your eyes checked regularly, this is commendable. It’s essential to continue these check-ups, especially if you notice any new symptoms or changes in your vision. Your eye care provider can perform detailed examinations, including retinal imaging, to assess the health of your eyes and rule out any serious conditions.

In conclusion, while some of your symptoms may be related to normal aging processes in the eye, the changes you describe warrant close monitoring. If you notice any sudden changes in your vision, such as an increase in floaters, flashes of light, or a shadow in your peripheral vision, seek immediate medical attention. Maintaining open communication with your eye care provider about your symptoms will help ensure that any potential issues are addressed promptly.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Black Spots in Vision: Causes and Care Tips

Hello Dr. Huang, I recently noticed a small black dot in my right eye that moves with my focus. In sunlight, I see a flickering object, similar to the patterns created by oil on glass when it comes into contact with water. My myopia is -4.00 diopters. Could you please explain wha...

Dr. Huang Bozhen reply Ophthalmology
Subject: Floaters. Explanation: This condition is caused by the degeneration of the vitreous body, leading to opacities that project onto the retina, resulting in the visual phenomenon you observe. It is commonly seen in the elderly, but individuals with myopia may experience vit...

Understanding Floaters: Causes and Solutions for Eye Health

I have a vision of around 800, and I used to see some small black dots floating in front of my eyes. My prescription also tends to increase easily.

Dr. Zhang Yuanze reply Ophthalmology
Hello, Xiaoxue: Myopia is primarily a condition caused by an elongated axial length of the eye, which can lead to various complications and degeneration of the internal structures of the eye. The small black dots you see floating in front of your eyes are related to vitreous dege...

Understanding Light Sensitivity and Floaters: Eye Health Concerns Explained

Hello, doctor! I have floaters in my vision. However, on some sunny days, even when I am facing away from the sunlight, my eyes feel very sensitive and I have to squint while riding my bike. Is this photophobia? Additionally, the black spots from my floaters in my left eye, which...

Dr. Wang Zhangji reply Ophthalmology
There are many possible causes of photophobia, but the most common is conjunctivitis. Floaters are a type of vitreous opacities, which are associated with the aging of the vitreous body. Many people experience floaters to varying degrees, which can appear as spots, lines, or webs...

Understanding Fixed Black Spots in Vision: Causes and Concerns

Hello, Director! I am Min-Hsuan, 25 years old, with high myopia of -7.20 diopters in my right eye and -9.20 diopters in my left eye. I would like to consult with you regarding my right eye. When I am sitting upright, my vision appears normal in all directions, and I do not see an...

Dr. He Jianxian reply Ophthalmology
Your spots are likely just floaters, retinal scarring, or retinal tears. Based on your description, it is not possible to determine the exact cause. It is recommended that you undergo a dilated fundus examination. If no significant findings are noted, you can rest assured. This i...