Transient visual blur
Current eye condition: Severe myopia (800-900), symptoms of a long-term computer user: Blurred vision (feeling like something is foggy in the eyes), but it is very unstable with no specific sensations (no dryness, itching, pain, etc.).
Timing: Occasionally, there is slight blurriness during the day, which improves with blinking (feels like something is just in the way).
Around 5 PM, I can noticeably feel a disparity between my left and right eyes, but this alleviates after stepping away from the computer for a while (sometimes blinking helps return to normal).
Distance vision seems to be less affected, but the blurriness of text on the screen is most pronounced.
Other conditions: When blurred, viewing objects by pulling my glasses away from my eyes makes them appear clearer.
Medical consultation: I consulted a doctor immediately, and the examination of my vision and glasses showed no issues (only regarding myopia).
A retinal examination revealed cracks at the edges of both retinas, and I need laser repair (already scheduled for next week).
Aside from that, there seem to be no significant pathological issues with my eyes.
Question: Could retinal cracks cause this blurriness? Should I wait until after the laser treatment to observe any changes? Thank you very much, doctor!
Jun Jun, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/05/14
Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology
Hello Jun-Jun: Based on your situation, it is unlikely that a retinal tear is the cause, as peripheral tears do not affect vision.
If laser treatment is necessary, it should be administered as soon as possible.
Your condition is related to the eye's accommodation, and resting your eyes will help alleviate the symptoms.
Adjusting your glasses can have the effect of slightly reducing the prescription.
If you spend long hours on the computer, using glasses with a slightly lower prescription than your current ones may help resolve this issue.
The Ophthalmology Department at Puzi Hospital in Taiwan is open Monday to Friday from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM, Monday evenings from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM, and Wednesday afternoons from 1:00 PM to 4:30 PM.
I hope to have the opportunity to assist you.
Gao Pi-Lin
Reply Date: 2015/05/14
More Info
Temporary blurry vision can be a concerning symptom, especially for someone with a history of high myopia (near-sightedness) like yourself. Given your situation, let's explore the potential causes of your symptoms and the appropriate steps you can take to address them.
Causes of Temporary Blurry Vision
1. Dry Eye Syndrome: One of the most common causes of temporary blurry vision, especially for individuals who spend long hours in front of a computer, is dry eye syndrome. This condition occurs when your eyes do not produce enough tears or the right quality of tears to keep the surface of your eyes lubricated. Symptoms can include a feeling of grittiness, dryness, and temporary blurriness that often improves with blinking, as you have experienced.
2. Visual Fatigue: Extended periods of screen time can lead to visual fatigue or digital eye strain. Symptoms may include blurry vision, eye discomfort, and difficulty focusing. This is often exacerbated by poor lighting, glare from screens, or improper viewing distances.
3. Refractive Errors: Even with corrective lenses, changes in your vision can occur. If your prescription is not up to date, or if your eyes have changed since your last exam, this could lead to temporary blurriness. It's good that you have already had your vision checked, but it’s worth mentioning that even slight changes in your prescription can affect clarity.
4. Retinal Issues: You mentioned having retinal tears, which can indeed cause visual disturbances. While retinal tears themselves may not always cause blurry vision, they can lead to complications such as retinal detachment, which can significantly affect vision. It’s crucial to monitor any changes in your vision closely, especially with your upcoming laser treatment.
5. Pupil Response: Sometimes, the way your pupils respond to light can affect your vision. If your pupils are not constricting properly, it can lead to temporary blurriness, especially in varying light conditions.
Solutions and Recommendations
1. Regular Breaks: Implement the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break to look at something 20 feet away. This helps reduce eye strain and fatigue.
2. Artificial Tears: If dry eyes are a contributing factor, consider using preservative-free artificial tears to keep your eyes lubricated throughout the day.
3. Proper Lighting: Ensure that your workspace is well-lit to reduce glare on your computer screen. Adjusting the brightness and contrast of your screen can also help.
4. Monitor Your Screen Time: Try to limit continuous screen time and incorporate regular breaks to allow your eyes to rest.
5. Follow Up on Retinal Treatment: Since you have an appointment for laser treatment for your retinal tears, it’s essential to follow through with that. After the procedure, monitor your vision closely and report any persistent or worsening symptoms to your eye care provider.
6. Consultation with a Specialist: If your symptoms persist after the laser treatment or if you notice any new symptoms, consider consulting a retinal specialist. They can provide a more in-depth evaluation of your retinal health and any potential impacts on your vision.
Conclusion
In summary, while your retinal tears could potentially contribute to your blurry vision, it is likely that factors such as dry eyes and visual fatigue are also playing significant roles. It’s essential to maintain regular follow-ups with your eye care provider, especially after your upcoming laser treatment. By taking proactive steps to manage your eye health, you can help mitigate the symptoms you are experiencing. If your blurry vision continues or worsens, do not hesitate to seek further medical advice.
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