Oscillopsia: Causes, Symptoms, and When to Seek Help

Q: Oscillopsia: Causes, Symptoms, and When to Seek Help

Hello： <br>Q1. <br>Generally speaking, transient and occasional visual disturbances such as visual vibrations can have multiple causes. <br>These include visual fatigue, eye muscle strain, eye conditions such as strabismus, retinal issues, or central nervous system problems. <br>

Regarding vibration-induced visual hallucinations?

Dear Dr.
Gao,
Thank you very much for your responses to my questions over the past few days.
I never expected that a simple fundus examination at the clinic could lead to so many issues (being poked in the eye with a cotton swab, experiencing a sensation of movement after instilling dilating drops).
I truly feel helpless and am very sorry for frequently asking you questions; I hope you can forgive me.
In my previous message, I mentioned that after using the dilating drops, I experienced a sensation of movement in my vision.
You replied that "this may be related to the side effects of the dilating agent.
The dilating drops expand the pupil, making the eyes more sensitive to light, which can affect visual perception.
This phenomenon is usually temporary and will gradually disappear as the dilating agent is metabolized." I understand this clearly; however, upon further reflection, I recall that a few nights ago while watching television, I also felt a similar sensation of vertical movement on the screen, and I was unable to watch for long due to discomfort, similar to a feeling of dizziness.
This situation persisted for a while before I could somewhat alleviate it and continue watching television; however, it seems that other objects did not exhibit this movement or discomfort.
Therefore, I looked into similar situations, which seem to relate to "oscillopsia" or "visual oscillation." I have not experienced anything like this before, with the exception of the recent incidents while watching television and the sensation of movement after instilling the dilating drops.
I would like to ask Dr.
Gao the following questions:
Q1.
Generally speaking, what are the causes of this brief, episodic "oscillopsia"?
Q2.
A few days ago, I overused my eyes (looking at screens) and stayed up late.
Could excessive eye strain and lack of sleep lead to "oscillopsia"?
Q3.
If one experiences brief, episodic "oscillopsia," is it necessary to seek medical examination, or should I simply observe whether it continues to occur?
Thank you again, Dr.
Gao.

Kris, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2024/03/24

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology

Hello:
Q1.
Generally speaking, transient and occasional visual disturbances such as visual vibrations can have multiple causes.
These include visual fatigue, eye muscle strain, eye conditions such as strabismus, retinal issues, or central nervous system problems.
These factors may lead to temporary instability in the visual system, causing you to perceive objects as shaking.
Q2.
You mentioned that you have previously experienced excessive eye strain and late nights.
Overuse of the eyes and prolonged periods of staying up late can increase eye fatigue, which may lead to visual discomfort, including visual vibrations.
Therefore, your eye fatigue may be related to your current symptoms.
Q3.
In your current situation, if your visual vibrations are transient, occasional, and do not significantly disrupt your daily life, you may choose to observe for a while, ensuring to rest and avoid excessive eye strain.
If the symptoms persist or worsen, or if they are accompanied by other unusual symptoms, it is advisable to consult an ophthalmologist for a detailed evaluation.

Reply Date: 2024/03/24

More Info

Oscillopsia, or the sensation of visual objects moving or oscillating, can be a disconcerting experience. It can arise from various causes, and understanding these can help in managing the condition effectively. Here, I will address your questions and provide additional insights into oscillopsia, its causes, symptoms, and when to seek medical help.

Q1: What causes short-term, episodic oscillopsia?
Oscillopsia can be caused by several factors, including:
1. Vestibular Disorders: The vestibular system, which helps control balance and spatial orientation, can be disrupted due to conditions like vestibular neuritis or Meniere's disease. This disruption can lead to oscillopsia as the brain struggles to interpret conflicting signals from the eyes and inner ear.

2. Neurological Conditions: Conditions such as multiple sclerosis, migraines, or even transient ischemic attacks (TIAs) can affect the brain's processing of visual information, resulting in oscillopsia.

3. Medication Side Effects: As you mentioned, the use of certain medications, such as those that dilate the pupils (like your eye drops), can temporarily affect vision. This is due to the increased sensitivity to light and changes in how the eye focuses.

4. Visual Fatigue: Prolonged use of screens or intense visual tasks can lead to visual fatigue, which may manifest as oscillopsia. This is often temporary and resolves with rest.

Q2: Can excessive screen time and lack of sleep lead to oscillopsia?
Yes, excessive screen time and sleep deprivation can contribute to visual disturbances, including oscillopsia. Prolonged exposure to screens can lead to digital eye strain, characterized by symptoms such as blurred vision, dry eyes, and discomfort. When the eyes are fatigued, they may not function optimally, leading to sensations like oscillopsia. Additionally, lack of sleep can impair cognitive function and visual processing, exacerbating these symptoms.

Q3: Should I seek medical attention for episodic oscillopsia?
If you experience short-term, episodic oscillopsia, it is generally advisable to monitor the situation. If the episodes are infrequent and resolve quickly, it may not be necessary to seek immediate medical attention. However, you should consider consulting a healthcare professional if:
- The oscillopsia persists or worsens.

- You experience additional symptoms, such as dizziness, headaches, or changes in balance.

- You have a history of neurological conditions or if this is a new symptom for you.

Additional Considerations
1. Rest and Eye Care: Ensure you take regular breaks from screens, practice the 20-20-20 rule (every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds), and maintain a proper distance from screens to reduce eye strain.

2. Hydration and Sleep: Staying hydrated and ensuring adequate sleep can significantly impact your overall visual health and reduce symptoms of oscillopsia.

3. Follow-Up: If symptoms persist, consider a comprehensive eye examination and possibly a referral to a neurologist or an ophthalmologist specializing in visual disturbances.

In conclusion, while oscillopsia can be alarming, understanding its potential causes and symptoms can help you manage it effectively. Always listen to your body, and don't hesitate to seek medical advice if you're concerned about your symptoms. Your health and well-being are paramount, and proactive management can lead to better outcomes.

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