Vision Decline: Causes and Specialist Guidance - Ophthalmology

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Dear Patient,
Thank you for reaching out with your concerns regarding your vision decline. It’s understandable to feel anxious about changes in your eyesight, especially given your history of high myopia (approximately -1200 diopters). While you have already consulted with specialists and undergone various tests, it’s important to explore further possibilities and seek appropriate guidance.


Potential Causes of Vision Decline
1. Retinal Issues: Even though your OCT (Optical Coherence Tomography) results were normal, it’s crucial to consider that some retinal conditions may not always be evident in initial examinations. Conditions such as retinal tears, detachments, or even early signs of macular degeneration can lead to visual disturbances. Regular follow-ups with a retinal specialist may be beneficial.

2. Vitreous Changes: High myopia can lead to changes in the vitreous gel that fills the eye. As we age, the vitreous can become more liquefied and may pull away from the retina, causing symptoms like floaters or flashes of light. In some cases, this can lead to more serious issues, so monitoring these changes is essential.

3. Corneal Issues: Conditions such as keratoconus, where the cornea thins and bulges, can also cause blurred vision. A corneal topography test can help assess the shape and thickness of your cornea.

4. Optic Nerve Health: Optic nerve conditions, such as optic neuritis or glaucoma, can lead to vision decline. A thorough examination by a neuro-ophthalmologist may be warranted to evaluate the health of your optic nerve.

5. Systemic Conditions: Certain systemic diseases, such as diabetes or hypertension, can affect your vision. If you have any underlying health issues, it’s essential to manage them effectively, as they can contribute to visual changes.

6. Psychological Factors: Anxiety and stress can sometimes exacerbate the perception of visual decline. If you find yourself overly focused on your vision, it may be helpful to speak with a mental health professional to address these feelings.


Recommended Specialists
Given your situation, I recommend the following specialists:
- Retina Specialist: To further evaluate the health of your retina and check for any subtle changes that may not have been detected in previous exams.


- Cornea Specialist: If there are concerns regarding the cornea, a cornea specialist can conduct specific tests to rule out conditions like keratoconus.

- Neuro-Ophthalmologist: If there are concerns about the optic nerve or neurological aspects of your vision, a neuro-ophthalmologist can provide a comprehensive evaluation.

- General Ophthalmologist: Continue regular check-ups with your ophthalmologist to monitor any changes in your vision and to discuss your concerns.


Conclusion
It’s important to remain proactive about your eye health. If you continue to experience symptoms or if your vision worsens, don’t hesitate to seek further evaluations. Keeping a detailed record of your symptoms and any changes can also be helpful during your consultations. Remember, early detection and intervention are key to managing eye health effectively.

Wishing you the best in your journey towards maintaining your vision. Please take care of yourself, and don’t hesitate to reach out for further assistance.

Best regards,
Doctor Q&A Teams