Sudden Visual Disturbances: Causes and Solutions - Ophthalmology

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Dear Wanyu,
Thank you for reaching out with your concerns regarding your recent visual disturbances. It’s understandable to feel anxious about sudden changes in vision, especially when they occur intermittently and can affect your daily activities. Based on your description, it seems you are experiencing episodes of visual disturbances characterized by a "foggy" or "wavy" appearance in your vision, which can be quite alarming.

There are several potential causes for the symptoms you are describing. One possibility is that you are experiencing visual migraines, which can occur without the typical headache that many associate with migraines. Visual migraines can cause temporary disturbances in vision, such as wavy lines, shimmering lights, or even temporary blind spots. These episodes can last from a few minutes to about half an hour and often resolve on their own, which aligns with your experience of the disturbances improving after a short period.

Another potential cause could be related to changes in the vitreous humor, the gel-like substance that fills the eye. As we age, the vitreous can begin to shrink and pull away from the retina, leading to symptoms like floaters or flashes of light. While this is generally a benign condition, it can sometimes lead to more serious issues, such as retinal tears or detachments, especially if accompanied by sudden changes in vision.

Additionally, your symptoms could be indicative of a condition known as "ocular migraine" or "retinal migraine," where the blood flow to the retina is temporarily reduced, leading to visual disturbances. This can happen even in the absence of a headache and may be triggered by stress, fatigue, or prolonged eye strain, particularly relevant given your work requires extensive use of your eyes.

Given that you mentioned these episodes occur during periods of rest or on weekends, it may also be worth considering the role of eye strain or fatigue. Prolonged screen time without adequate breaks can lead to a condition known as digital eye strain, which can cause various visual symptoms, including blurred or distorted vision. It’s essential to practice the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break to look at something 20 feet away to help alleviate eye strain.

While these explanations may provide some insight into your symptoms, it is crucial to consult with an eye care professional for a thorough examination, especially since you are experiencing these disturbances multiple times. If you are currently abroad and unable to visit a specialist, consider seeking out local healthcare services that can provide an eye examination. It’s essential to rule out any serious conditions, particularly if you notice any changes in the frequency or intensity of your symptoms.

In the meantime, here are some general recommendations to help manage your symptoms:
1. Take Regular Breaks: If your work involves prolonged screen time, ensure you take regular breaks to reduce eye strain.


2. Stay Hydrated: Dehydration can exacerbate visual disturbances, so ensure you are drinking enough water throughout the day.

3. Manage Stress: Stress can trigger migraines and other visual disturbances, so consider incorporating relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or gentle exercise into your routine.

4. Monitor Symptoms: Keep a diary of your episodes, noting when they occur, their duration, and any associated symptoms. This information can be valuable for your healthcare provider.

5. Seek Professional Help: As soon as you are able, seek an eye care professional for a comprehensive eye exam to rule out any underlying conditions.

In conclusion, while your symptoms may be benign, it is always best to err on the side of caution when it comes to your vision. I hope this information helps you understand your situation better, and I encourage you to seek medical attention as soon as possible.

Take care, and I wish you the best in your health journey.

Sincerely,
Doctor Q&A Teams