Unusual Floaters: When to Seek Eye Care - Ophthalmology

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Hello! Thank you for your detailed question regarding your recent experiences with unusual floaters and visual disturbances. Given your history of high myopia (600 degrees in the left eye and 800 degrees in the right eye) and astigmatism, it's understandable that you are concerned about the changes in your vision.

Firstly, it's important to clarify what floaters are. Floaters are tiny clumps of gel or cells that form in the vitreous, the clear gel-like substance that fills the eye. They can appear as small dots, lines, or cobweb-like shapes that drift across your field of vision. In most cases, floaters are harmless and are a common occurrence, especially in individuals with high myopia.

However, the new symptoms you describe—particularly the colorful irregular shapes and the sudden appearance of black or white dots—warrant a closer examination. These symptoms could potentially indicate changes in the vitreous or even the retina, especially given your high degree of myopia. High myopia increases the risk of retinal issues, including retinal tears or detachments, which can present with new floaters, flashes of light, or a shadow over your vision.

Regarding your question about whether these symptoms could be related to floaters, yes, they can be. However, the specific characteristics you describe—especially the colorful shapes that move with your gaze and disappear after a few seconds—could also suggest other phenomena, such as visual disturbances related to the retina or even the brain. The transient nature of these symptoms is concerning, as they could indicate a more serious underlying condition.

You mentioned that your previous eye exams primarily involved slit lamp examinations. While this is a valuable tool for assessing the anterior segment of the eye, it may not provide a comprehensive evaluation of the vitreous or retina. A dilated fundus examination or optical coherence tomography (OCT) can offer a more detailed view of the retina and vitreous, helping to rule out any potential issues.

Given your symptoms and the potential risks associated with high myopia, I strongly recommend that you seek an eye care professional who can perform a thorough examination, including a dilated fundus exam. If you experience any sudden changes in vision, such as an increase in floaters, flashes of light, or a curtain-like shadow over your vision, it is crucial to seek immediate medical attention.

In terms of your question about whether you should take a break from work to see a doctor sooner, if you are experiencing significant discomfort or anxiety about your vision, it may be wise to prioritize your eye health. Taking a break to address these concerns can help alleviate stress and ensure that you receive the appropriate care.

Lastly, regarding your inquiry about retinal spots, it's true that some conditions affecting the retina may not be visible through a standard slit lamp examination. Conditions such as retinal tears or early signs of retinal detachment can sometimes be subtle and require specialized imaging techniques for proper diagnosis.

In summary, while floaters are common and often benign, the new symptoms you are experiencing should be evaluated by an eye care professional. A comprehensive eye exam, including a dilated fundus examination, is essential to rule out any serious conditions. Please prioritize your eye health and seek the appropriate care as soon as possible. Your vision is invaluable, and addressing these concerns promptly can help ensure your long-term eye health.