Vision Issues: White Grids and Ring Shapes in Eyes

Q: Vision Issues: White Grids and Ring Shapes in Eyes

Hello Ms. Wu： 1. I have not encountered any patients with similar conditions, so I cannot provide a specific answer. However, if there is indeed a problem, theoretically, abnormal phenomena would not resolve on their own. 2. A follow-up examination would likel

There is a halo around the eyes?

Hello Doctor: On August 4th, I underwent a dilated eye examination due to a significant increase in floaters in both eyes.
The results showed that I had holes in both eyes, and the hospital performed laser treatment on one eye immediately.
The other eye is scheduled for treatment next week.
However, I have some questions I would like to ask:
1.
After the first eye was treated, a week later, I woke up in the morning when it was slightly bright and opened my eyes.
The room was somewhat dim, but I saw the ceiling covered in a white grid pattern.
After closing my eyes a few times or getting up, the grid pattern would disappear.
When I asked the doctor during my follow-up visit, he mentioned that if it disappears, it’s fine, but if it doesn’t, then there might be an issue.
Is this really the case? It’s now almost October, and I still see the grid pattern every day.
2.
In the past few days, I suddenly noticed that when I close my left eye, I see a light ring resembling a donut shape.
When my eyes are closed, everything appears white, but when I open my eyes or blink, the donut shape turns black.
When looking far away, the donut appears large, and when looking close, it appears small.
As long as I don’t blink or open and close my eyes, the donut shape doesn’t appear.
Additionally, when I look at a grid pattern with one eye closed, I notice that the lines in my left eye with the donut shape are not very straight and appear somewhat distorted.
Doctor, could these symptoms indicate retinal issues? I am very worried, but I can only return for a follow-up on the 22nd.

WU, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/09/19

Dr. He Jianxian reply Ophthalmology

Hello Ms.
Wu: 1.
I have not encountered any patients with similar conditions, so I cannot provide a specific answer.
However, if there is indeed a problem, theoretically, abnormal phenomena would not resolve on their own.
2.
A follow-up examination would likely yield more accurate results.
I also have not encountered patients with similar symptoms, so I cannot provide a definitive answer.
Director He Jianxian, Ophthalmology, Nantou Hospital.

Reply Date: 2023/09/19

More Info

Hello! Thank you for your detailed questions regarding your vision issues. It sounds like you are experiencing a variety of visual disturbances, and I understand how concerning this can be. Let's break down your symptoms and concerns.

1. White Grid Patterns: After your laser treatment for retinal holes, seeing a white grid pattern on your ceiling, especially in dim lighting, can be related to a phenomenon known as "visual afterimages" or "visual disturbances." These can occur due to changes in the retina or the way your brain processes visual information after a significant event like laser treatment. If the grid pattern disappears after blinking or moving your eyes, it may indicate that this is a temporary phenomenon. However, persistent visual disturbances warrant further investigation. Your doctor’s reassurance that if the pattern disappears, it is likely not a cause for concern is generally accurate, but continuous monitoring is essential.

2. Ring Shapes (Doughnut Shapes): The appearance of a doughnut-shaped light or dark spot, especially when you close one eye, could be indicative of several conditions. This could be related to the vitreous gel in your eye, which can sometimes pull away from the retina, leading to visual phenomena like floaters or flashes of light. The fact that this shape changes based on your eye's position (open or closed) suggests that it might be related to the vitreous body rather than the retina itself. However, if you notice any changes in your vision, such as a sudden increase in floaters or flashes, or if the shape persists, it is crucial to seek immediate medical attention.

3. Concerns about Retinal Issues: Given your history of retinal holes and the recent laser treatment, it is understandable to be concerned about your retina's health. The symptoms you describe, including the grid patterns and the doughnut shapes, could potentially be linked to changes in the vitreous or retina. While your doctor has indicated that your retina is stable, it is important to continue monitoring your symptoms. If you experience any new symptoms, such as a sudden loss of vision, increased floaters, or flashes of light, you should seek immediate medical attention.

4. Follow-Up Appointments: Since you have a follow-up appointment scheduled, it is essential to communicate all your symptoms clearly to your eye care provider. They may perform additional tests, such as optical coherence tomography (OCT) or visual field tests, to assess the health of your retina and vitreous more thoroughly.

In summary, while some visual disturbances can be benign and temporary, your history of retinal issues necessitates careful monitoring. It’s crucial to maintain open communication with your eye care provider and report any new or worsening symptoms. Your health and peace of mind are paramount, so don’t hesitate to reach out for help if you feel something is not right.

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