the Increase in Floaters: When to Seek Eye Care - Ophthalmology

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When it comes to the increase in floaters, particularly for individuals with high myopia, it's essential to understand the underlying mechanisms and when to seek medical attention. Floaters, or "myodesopsia," are often caused by changes in the vitreous gel that fills the eye. As we age or due to conditions like high myopia, the vitreous can become more liquid, leading to the formation of floaters. These can appear as small dots, lines, or cobweb-like structures that drift across your field of vision.

In your case, you mentioned that the floaters have increased but not dramatically or suddenly. This gradual increase can be typical, especially for those with high myopia. However, the presence of "lightning flashes" or "photopsia" in the corners of your vision is a symptom that should not be overlooked. These flashes can indicate that the vitreous is pulling on the retina, which could potentially lead to retinal tears or detachment.

The "water ripple" effect you described may also be associated with vitreous changes. This phenomenon can occur when the vitreous gel is in the process of detaching from the retina, which is a common occurrence in individuals with high myopia. While this is often benign, it can sometimes be a precursor to more serious conditions, such as retinal tears or detachment, especially if accompanied by an increase in floaters or flashes.

Given your history of experiencing flashes and the recent increase in floaters, it is advisable to have a thorough eye examination, including a dilated fundus exam, to assess the health of your retina and vitreous. Even if your previous examination showed no issues, changes can occur, and it's better to err on the side of caution.

You should seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of the following symptoms:
1. A sudden increase in the number of floaters.

2. A sudden onset of flashes of light.

3. A shadow or curtain effect in your peripheral vision.

4. Any significant changes in your vision, such as blurriness or loss of vision.

It's also good to maintain regular eye check-ups, especially since you have high myopia, which predisposes you to various ocular complications. Your practice of taking breaks while using the computer is excellent; the 20-20-20 rule (every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds) is a great way to reduce eye strain.

In summary, while an increase in floaters can be a normal part of aging or myopia, any accompanying symptoms such as flashes or visual disturbances warrant further investigation. Regular monitoring and communication with your eye care provider are key to maintaining your ocular health.