Eye Check Concerns: Symptoms and Potential Issues - Ophthalmology

More Info

---

Dear Patient,
Thank you for reaching out with your concerns regarding your eye health. Based on your description, it seems you are experiencing a combination of symptoms that may be related to your existing myopia (nearsightedness) and possibly some other ocular conditions. Let’s break down your symptoms and discuss potential issues and recommendations for further evaluation.

Firstly, the observation of red blood vessels in your vision during the eye examination could be related to a few factors. When you strain your eyes, particularly during a detailed examination, it is possible to see the blood vessels more prominently due to increased pressure in the eye or the surrounding tissues. This is generally not a cause for alarm, especially if it was a transient phenomenon during the examination.

However, the increase in floaters (the "flying mosquitoes" you mentioned) and the appearance of bright lines or patterns in your vision, especially in low-light conditions, warrant further attention. Floaters are often benign and can be a common occurrence, particularly in individuals with high myopia. They are typically caused by changes in the vitreous gel that fills the eye, which can become more liquid and allow small clumps of gel or cells to cast shadows on the retina, resulting in the perception of floaters.

That said, a sudden increase in floaters, especially if accompanied by flashes of light or a shadow in your peripheral vision, can indicate a more serious condition, such as a retinal tear or detachment. Given your history of high myopia, you are at a higher risk for these conditions, as the structure of the eye can be more susceptible to changes.

The fact that you see a bright line or pattern in dim lighting could suggest a phenomenon known as "entoptic phenomena," where you perceive visual effects that originate from within your own eye. This can be related to the presence of floaters or other changes in the vitreous or retina. However, if these symptoms are new or have changed significantly, it is crucial to have them evaluated by an eye care professional.

I recommend scheduling a comprehensive eye examination with an ophthalmologist, particularly one who specializes in retinal health. During this examination, they may perform additional tests, such as optical coherence tomography (OCT), which can provide detailed images of the retina and help identify any potential issues that may not be visible during a standard eye exam.

In the meantime, it is essential to monitor your symptoms closely. If you experience any sudden changes in your vision, such as a significant increase in floaters, flashes of light, or a curtain-like shadow over your vision, seek immediate medical attention. These could be signs of a retinal detachment, which is a medical emergency.

Lastly, managing your myopia is crucial. Regular eye exams and appropriate corrective lenses can help maintain your vision and reduce strain on your eyes. If you haven’t already, consider discussing options for myopia management with your eye care provider, which may include specialized contact lenses or refractive surgery, depending on your overall eye health and preferences.

In summary, while some of your symptoms may be benign, the combination of increased floaters and visual changes in low light should be evaluated thoroughly. Please prioritize an appointment with your eye care provider to ensure your ocular health is monitored and managed appropriately.

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

Sincerely,
Doctor Q&A Teams