Retinal Issues: Floaters and Related Symptoms Explained

Q: Retinal Issues: Floaters and Related Symptoms Explained

Hello： Regarding floaters, this is a symptom characterized by the perception of small spots or debris floating in the field of vision, typically associated with tiny particles in the vitreous gel or remnants of blood vessels within the eye. <br>Generally, floaters are not directl

Retinal issues such as floaters and other related problems?

Hello Doctor, I started experiencing symptoms of Retinitis Pigmentosa (RP) this year, such as photophobia and difficulty adapting to changes in light.
A few months before the onset of these symptoms, I suddenly developed floaters in both eyes.
The range of the transparent and cloudy spots is quite large, and I initially suspected it might be physiological floaters.
However, after seeing a doctor for an examination, I was diagnosed with RP.
I asked the doctor if retinal degeneration could cause floaters, but he said the two are unrelated.
My RP symptoms began appearing after the floaters, and the timing coincides.
Currently, my myopia is less than 200 degrees in both eyes, but a few months before the floaters appeared, my astigmatism suddenly increased to 200-300 degrees.
I even got new glasses, but I don't understand why my astigmatism increased so much, especially since I rarely rub my eyes.
I'm a bit confused about the cause of my floaters and would like to know if staying up late has any impact.
Additionally, I've heard that RP can affect vision and may progressively worsen.
Is there really no connection between retinal degeneration and floaters? Lastly, will retinal degeneration eventually make my floaters worse? Thank you.

RP Huanzhe, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/05/30

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology

Hello: Regarding floaters, this is a symptom characterized by the perception of small spots or debris floating in the field of vision, typically associated with tiny particles in the vitreous gel or remnants of blood vessels within the eye.
Generally, floaters are not directly related to retinitis pigmentosa (RP).
RP is a progressive retinal disease that can lead to a gradual decline in vision.
The relationship between RP and floaters is not clearly defined, and there is no definitive research evidence indicating that retinal degeneration directly causes or exacerbates floaters.
However, individual conditions may vary.
Changes in astigmatism may result from alterations in the shape of the cornea, which can be age-related, such as the cornea becoming slightly flatter or thinning of the corneal tissue.
Additionally, other ocular diseases or conditions, such as corneal deformities, retinal pathologies, or changes in intraocular pressure, may also contribute to an increase in astigmatism.
An increase in prescription after getting new glasses may be due to the new lenses not adequately meeting your visual needs, or there may have been some measurement errors during the refraction process.
It is advisable to have your eyes reassessed by an ophthalmologist to determine if a new prescription is necessary.
Staying up late can have certain effects on eye health, including potentially increasing the risk of eye fatigue and discomfort.
However, staying up late is not a direct cause of RP or floaters.
Nonetheless, maintaining good sleep and lifestyle habits is important for preserving eye health and overall well-being.

Reply Date: 2023/05/30

More Info

Hello! Thank you for your detailed inquiry regarding your symptoms and concerns related to retinal issues, specifically floaters and retinitis pigmentosa (RP). It’s understandable to feel anxious when experiencing changes in vision, especially when they coincide with a diagnosis like RP.

Floaters, or "muscae volitantes," are small spots or lines that drift through your field of vision. They are typically caused by changes in the vitreous gel that fills the eye, which can become more liquid and less gel-like as we age. This process can lead to the formation of clumps or strands that cast shadows on the retina, resulting in the perception of floaters. While floaters are common and often benign, they can sometimes indicate more serious conditions, particularly if they appear suddenly or are accompanied by flashes of light or a significant increase in their number.

In your case, you mentioned that you have been experiencing floaters since the onset of RP symptoms, which include light sensitivity and difficulty adapting to changes in light. It’s important to note that while floaters and RP can occur concurrently, they are not directly related. RP is a genetic disorder that leads to the progressive degeneration of the retina, affecting peripheral and night vision. The presence of floaters is generally attributed to changes in the vitreous rather than retinal degeneration itself.

Your concern about the sudden increase in astigmatism (200-300 degrees) is also noteworthy. Astigmatism can change due to various factors, including changes in the shape of the cornea or lens, but it is less common for it to fluctuate dramatically in a short period. If you have recently changed your glasses and noticed a significant difference, it may be worth revisiting your eye care professional for a thorough examination to ensure that your prescription is accurate and that there are no underlying issues.

Regarding your question about lifestyle factors such as late-night activities, it is true that excessive screen time and poor sleep habits can contribute to eye strain and discomfort. While they may not directly cause floaters or RP, they can exacerbate symptoms of eye fatigue and discomfort. It’s advisable to practice good eye hygiene, including the 20-20-20 rule (every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds), to reduce eye strain.

As for the progression of RP and its potential impact on floaters, while RP primarily affects the photoreceptor cells in the retina, it does not typically cause floaters to worsen. However, as the condition progresses, you may experience other visual disturbances. Regular follow-ups with your eye care provider are crucial to monitor the progression of RP and to address any new symptoms that may arise.

In summary, while floaters and RP can occur together, they are not causally linked. It’s essential to maintain regular eye examinations to monitor your condition and to discuss any new or worsening symptoms with your healthcare provider. If you notice a sudden increase in floaters, flashes of light, or any significant changes in your vision, seek immediate medical attention to rule out any serious complications. Your proactive approach to understanding your symptoms is commendable, and I encourage you to continue seeking clarity from your healthcare team.

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