Common Eye Issues: Light Spots, Black Dots, and More - Ophthalmology

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Eye problems


Hello Doctor, I have some questions to ask.
There is a phenomenon where a point of light can only be seen in the sky.
In the moment of blinking, a light spot appears in a certain area of my vision, and its position is fixed; if blocked by a building, it cannot be seen.
I am unsure if this is harmful.

I experienced a black spot that appeared once, about the size of a one-dollar coin, and it disappeared after approximately three seconds.
I am curious about what this could be.

I have also experienced a phenomenon similar to tape, which has occurred twice, usually in the morning.
In my vision, it appears as colored patches, like tape stuck on transparent glass, and then disappears after a few seconds.
Regarding the Amsler grid, when looking at the grid, can abnormalities be detected at a glance, or do I need to focus on it for a period of time? My situation is that when I focus on the edge of the grid with one eye, it seems like the squares are shrinking or deforming, but it also seems like they are not.
As for retinal laser treatment, could you please clarify if the laser is used to cauterize the edges of a wound to prevent worsening? Will the central optic nerve regenerate afterward?
Sometimes, a black spot suddenly appears in my vision, with a position that is not fixed; it always appears and disappears instantly, usually just one spot.
I wonder if this is harmful.
Regarding posterior vitreous detachment, could you tell me how long the pulling sensation typically lasts in current cases? For instance, I have been experiencing flashes from December until now, in April.
If I continue to have these flashes after examinations, what should I do?
Is there a chance that the already detached vitreous could reattach, similar to peeling off tape and then sticking it back on? Thank you for your response, Doctor.

Gan gao zhong, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/04/16

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology


Hello:
1.
Based on the phenomenon you described, the light spot that appears during blinking may be referred to as "blue light halo." This is a physiological phenomenon caused by light passing through the blood vessels, fundus, and retina of the eye, where differences in the transparency of the vessel walls lead to varying light reflections, ultimately forming the light spot.
Generally, this phenomenon is harmless and does not require special treatment.
2.
This phenomenon may also be attributed to "vitreous floaters." The vitreous is a transparent gel-like substance in the eye that occupies most of the eyeball's space.
As one ages, proteins and other substances in the vitreous gradually clump together to form solid materials, which are the primary cause of vitreous floaters.
Symptoms of vitreous floaters include seeing images resembling tape or butterflies, flashes of light, blurred or hazy vision, and sometimes the appearance of black dots or lines.
Vitreous floaters are usually harmless, but if acute and significant symptoms occur, such as a sudden increase in black dots or lines, severe flashes, or pain, it may indicate serious eye conditions like retinal detachment, and prompt medical evaluation is necessary.
It is advisable to consult an ophthalmologist for a detailed eye examination to determine the cause and receive appropriate treatment recommendations.
3.
The Amsler grid is a commonly used ophthalmic test to assess the sensitivity of the eyes to visual details.
Generally, a normal person should be able to quickly see the black and white squares of the Amsler grid, and the size and shape of the squares should remain stable without significant distortion or shrinkage.
If you notice any distortion or a sense of shrinking in the squares, it may indicate an abnormality, and it is recommended to seek medical evaluation promptly.
4.
Retinal laser therapy is a method used to treat retinal diseases by using lasers to target lesions on the retina, effectively burning away the affected areas to prevent further deterioration.
This helps protect eye health and avoid vision loss.
The laser burns are applied to the surface of the retina, while the optic nerve passes through the retina from the center of the eyeball, so retinal laser therapy typically does not affect the optic nerve.
If the treatment is appropriate, in most cases, the central optic nerve can remain unaffected.
However, in some situations, such as when the lesions are too close to the optic nerve, there is a possibility of some degree of damage to the optic nerve.
5.
The transient appearance of black spots is commonly referred to as "transient scotoma." This phenomenon is quite common and usually does not cause any harm to the eyes.
There are many potential causes for transient scotoma, including eye fatigue, low blood sugar, and changes in internal eye substances.
If you experience this condition occasionally and do not have other visual issues, there is typically no need for concern.
However, if you frequently experience black spots or other visual problems, it is best to consult an ophthalmologist to ensure eye health.
6.
The duration of posterior vitreous detachment varies from person to person; some may last only a few weeks, while others may persist for several months to over a year.
The occurrence of flashes may vary depending on the degree of detachment and the interaction between the vitreous and the retina.
If the flashes persist, it is advisable to seek medical attention again and inform the healthcare provider of your symptoms.
In some cases, a fundus examination may be necessary to confirm whether the retina is affected.
As for the already detached vitreous, it typically does not reattach.

Reply Date: 2023/04/16

More Info


Hello! Thank you for your questions regarding various eye phenomena and concerns. Let's address each of your inquiries in detail.

1. Light Spots in the Sky: The phenomenon of seeing light spots in the sky, particularly when you blink, can be attributed to several factors. One common explanation is the presence of "floaters," which are tiny clumps of gel or cells inside the vitreous (the gel-like substance that fills the eye). They can cast shadows on the retina, leading to the perception of spots or flashes of light. If these spots are fixed in position and disappear when obstructed by an object, they are likely benign. However, if you experience a sudden increase in floaters or flashes, it is essential to seek an eye examination to rule out any serious conditions, such as retinal detachment.

2. Black Spot (Scotoma): The transient appearance of a black spot the size of a coin that lasts for a few seconds and then disappears could be a form of a scotoma, which is a partial loss of vision or a blind spot in your visual field. This can occur due to various reasons, including migraines, retinal issues, or even transient ischemic attacks (TIAs). If this happens frequently or is accompanied by other symptoms, it is crucial to consult an eye care professional for a thorough evaluation.

3. Tape Phenomenon: The "tape phenomenon" you describe, where you see color patches resembling tape on a transparent surface, may also relate to visual disturbances associated with migraines or visual aura. These phenomena can be benign but should be monitored. If they persist or worsen, a comprehensive eye examination is warranted.

4. Amsler Grid Test: When using an Amsler grid to check for visual abnormalities, it is best to focus on the center of the grid while observing the lines. If you notice any distortion, blurriness, or missing areas, it could indicate issues with the macula, such as macular degeneration. It’s important to perform this test regularly and report any changes to your eye doctor.

5. Retinal Laser Treatment: Regarding retinal laser treatment, it is designed to seal off areas of the retina to prevent further damage or complications. While the laser can help stabilize the condition, it does not regenerate the optic nerve or restore lost vision. The optic nerve does not regenerate in the same way as other tissues in the body, so any damage to it can lead to permanent vision loss.

6. Vitreous Detachment: The duration of symptoms related to posterior vitreous detachment (PVD) can vary significantly among individuals. Some may experience flashes and floaters for weeks to months, while others may notice a gradual decrease in symptoms over time. Once the vitreous has detached, it typically does not reattach. However, the symptoms may diminish as the brain adapts to the new visual input. If you continue to experience persistent flashes or new symptoms, it is essential to follow up with your eye care provider.

In conclusion, while many of the phenomena you describe can be benign, it is crucial to remain vigilant and consult an eye care professional if you notice any significant changes in your vision or if symptoms persist. Regular eye examinations are vital for maintaining eye health and catching potential issues early. Thank you for your questions, and I hope this information helps clarify your concerns!

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