Persistent Eye Discomfort: Seeking Solutions for Ongoing Symptoms - Ophthalmology

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Hello! Based on your description, it seems that you are experiencing a complex set of symptoms that could be attributed to several underlying issues. The symptoms you mentioned, including light sensitivity (photophobia), the sensation of a foreign body in the eye, heat, pain, and discomfort when using your phone, suggest that there may be multiple factors at play.

Firstly, the initial episode of blurred vision after acupuncture could indicate a temporary disruption in your visual system, possibly due to changes in blood flow or muscle tension around the eyes. This could have been exacerbated by the positioning during the acupuncture treatment. The fact that the blurriness resolved after a short period is a good sign, but the lingering discomfort suggests that your eyes may still be under strain.

The varying diagnoses from different eye doctors, including conjunctivitis (pink eye), dry eye syndrome, and elevated intraocular pressure, indicate that your symptoms are not straightforward. Conjunctivitis typically presents with redness, discharge, and discomfort, while dry eye syndrome can lead to sensations of grittiness, burning, and fluctuating vision. Elevated intraocular pressure can be a concern, particularly in the context of glaucoma, but it is essential to correlate this with other findings such as optic nerve health and visual field tests.

The mention of "筋卡到" (muscle strain) and poor blood circulation to the back of the head could suggest that your symptoms are also related to tension or strain in the neck and shoulder area, which can affect the muscles that control eye movement and focus. This is particularly relevant given your recent shoulder discomfort and the treatments you have undergone.

To address your ongoing symptoms, here are some recommendations:
1. Comprehensive Eye Examination: It may be beneficial to see a specialist, such as a neuro-ophthalmologist, who can evaluate both your eye health and any neurological factors that may be contributing to your symptoms. This can help rule out any serious conditions.

2. Dry Eye Management: If dry eye syndrome is a contributing factor, consider using preservative-free artificial tears regularly, especially during prolonged screen time. Additionally, implementing the 20-20-20 rule (every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds) can help reduce eye strain.

3. Addressing Muscle Tension: Since you mentioned shoulder discomfort, it may be helpful to incorporate physical therapy or exercises that focus on neck and shoulder relaxation. This can alleviate tension that may be affecting your visual comfort.

4. Lifestyle Adjustments: Ensure that you are maintaining good ergonomics while using screens. Adjust the brightness of your devices, take regular breaks, and ensure proper lighting in your environment to minimize glare.

5. Follow-Up on Eye Pressure: If your eye pressure was noted to be slightly elevated, it’s essential to have regular follow-ups to monitor this. Your eye doctor may recommend specific tests to assess the health of your optic nerve and visual fields.

6. Consider Stress Management: Stress and anxiety can exacerbate physical symptoms, including eye discomfort. Techniques such as mindfulness, meditation, or gentle yoga may help reduce overall tension.

In conclusion, your symptoms appear to be multifactorial, involving both ocular and possibly muscular or neurological components. A thorough evaluation by a specialist, along with appropriate management strategies for dry eyes and muscle tension, should help improve your condition. Don't hesitate to seek further medical advice if your symptoms persist or worsen. Thank you for sharing your concerns, and I hope you find relief soon!