Facing the Fear of Blindness: A Young Professional's Eye Health Journey

Q: Facing the Fear of Blindness: A Young Professional's Eye Health Journey

Hello： I think you are worrying too much. <br>I suggest you come to our outpatient clinic for an examination; the explanation will be clearer. <br>Wishing you good health.

Fear of blindness

Hello, Doctor.
I am highly myopic with astigmatism and work in the technology industry, where I spend long hours using a computer.
I have been working for less than a year.
In April, I was suspected of having glaucoma, and in June, I underwent visual field tests, fundus photography, and dilation examinations.
In July, due to experiencing unexplained light spots, I had three or four dilation checks.
Although the doctors have said that I do not currently have any eye diseases, today I visited the ophthalmology department at Taipei Medical University Hospital.
I understand that the chief physician has many patients, so I arrived early at the hospital.
After examining my retina, the doctor informed me that there is a very small hole.
When I inquired further about the strange astigmatism I see when looking at lights with my eyes turned, the doctor simply replied that it was nothing to worry about.
I then mentioned that when I tilt my head up, I see light spots, and the doctor seemed a bit irritated, saying that it was just a reflection from my glasses (but I still see the light spots even without my glasses).
The doctor then expressed suspicion that I might have a certain psychiatric condition.
After that, I hesitated to ask more questions.
Later, a nurse came out and suggested that I consider laser treatment, and I scheduled an appointment.
From April to July, this experience has been incredibly distressing for me.
I have visited eye clinics more than twenty times, and the large hospital's ophthalmology department has required multiple visits due to various symptoms.
Previously, I rarely took leave from work, but in these past few months, my supervisor has had to express concern about my frequent absences.
I have been reluctant to tell my supervisor that my time off is for medical appointments rather than leisure.
I have always felt that I might not escape the challenge of a serious eye disease, but I hope to at least hold on until my child becomes independent and I have saved some money to deal with unexpected difficulties.
As a recent graduate facing these challenges, I feel very frustrated.
For the past few months, I have come home every day and stared at streetlights, worrying that one day I might see a rainbow halo.
At work, I often experience headaches and eye strain, leading me to worry that my intraocular pressure might be rising, which makes me feel nauseous.
I even dream about losing my sight, and after waking up, I struggle to fall back asleep.
Over these months, I have thought a lot about my situation, and I have even lost the desire to start a family.
I am concerned that I will be unable to provide my child with the educational opportunities and living environment they deserve, and that my child will suffer because of me.
Ultimately, I feel like I no longer have the motivation to continue moving forward.

Loser, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2013/07/23

Dr. He Jianxian reply Ophthalmology

Hello: I think you are worrying too much.
I suggest you come to our outpatient clinic for an examination; the explanation will be clearer.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2013/07/23

More Info

Facing the fear of blindness, especially as a young professional dealing with high myopia and astigmatism, can be an incredibly daunting experience. Your concerns are valid, and it's understandable that the combination of your eye health issues and the demands of a technology job that requires prolonged screen time can lead to anxiety and distress.
Firstly, it's important to acknowledge the emotional toll that such health concerns can take. The fear of losing one's vision can lead to significant stress, impacting not only your mental health but also your daily life and work performance. It's crucial to address these feelings and consider seeking support from a mental health professional if you find that anxiety is overwhelming.
From a medical perspective, high myopia (or nearsightedness) and astigmatism can indeed increase the risk of developing serious eye conditions, including glaucoma and retinal issues. However, regular eye examinations are essential in monitoring these conditions. Your recent tests, including visual field tests and retinal imaging, are vital in assessing your eye health. The fact that your doctors have not identified any significant eye disease at this point is reassuring, but it’s understandable that the uncertainty can be distressing.

The small retinal hole mentioned by your doctor, while concerning, is not uncommon in individuals with high myopia. These holes can sometimes lead to retinal detachment, but many people live with them without any significant issues. The recommendation for laser treatment is often a preventive measure to seal the hole and reduce the risk of complications. It’s essential to follow through with this advice, as it can provide peace of mind and protect your vision in the long run.

Regarding the visual disturbances you are experiencing, such as seeing halos or light rings, these can be attributed to several factors, including the effects of your glasses, eye strain from prolonged screen use, or even the anxiety itself. It’s important to take regular breaks from screens, practice the 20-20-20 rule (every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds), and ensure that your workspace is ergonomically set up to reduce strain on your eyes.

Your concerns about potentially not being able to provide for your future children due to your eye health are understandable, but it’s important to focus on what you can control. By actively managing your eye health through regular check-ups, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and addressing any mental health concerns, you can significantly reduce the risk of severe complications.

In terms of lifestyle changes, consider incorporating a balanced diet rich in antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamins that support eye health, such as lutein and zeaxanthin. Staying hydrated and ensuring you get adequate sleep can also help alleviate some of the discomfort you’re experiencing.

Lastly, it’s crucial to maintain open communication with your healthcare providers. If you feel that your concerns are not being adequately addressed, don’t hesitate to seek a second opinion or ask for clarification on your symptoms and treatment options. Your health and peace of mind are paramount, and you deserve to feel supported and informed about your eye health journey.

In summary, while the fear of blindness is a significant concern, proactive management of your eye health, regular check-ups, and addressing your mental health can help you navigate this challenging time. Remember, you are not alone in this journey, and there are resources and support available to help you cope with your fears and maintain your vision.

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