Floaters and Visual Disturbances: When to Seek Help

Q: Floaters and Visual Disturbances: When to Seek Help

Hello, Little Depression： Your symptoms indicate that you may have floaters. <br>Please visit an ophthalmologist for an examination. <br>If the examination shows no issues, then there is no need for concern. <br>Macular degeneration does not disappear and will persist, so it is l

Floaters Troubles

Hello, doctor.
I have floaters in both eyes and have myopia of 500 degrees.
The floaters have been present for some time.
Once, I suddenly saw a dark shadow that I could see even in a dark space, but it didn't move with my eye and disappeared after about 3 seconds.
The frequency of seeing this is much lower than that of the floaters.
Is this situation related to the floaters or the macula? I found online that macular degeneration can cause black spots.
Recently, when I blink and open my eyes, I see a small black dot that quickly disappears, but I only see it when I blink and open my eyes, and it appears against light-colored objects.
Is this also related to the floaters? The doctor mentioned that my glasses prescription is slightly insufficient, but it's still acceptable.
It might be because my eyes were a bit tired during the measurement.
However, recently, I feel a bit of strain and discomfort when looking at things, although my vision is clear.
How can I improve this issue? What does it feel like to see flashes? I feel very anxious every time I think about it, especially during holidays, because I get nervous every time I see a reflection.
Thank you.

Xiao Xiao You Yu, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/08/12

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology

Hello, Little Depression: Your symptoms indicate that you may have floaters.
Please visit an ophthalmologist for an examination.
If the examination shows no issues, then there is no need for concern.
Macular degeneration does not disappear and will persist, so it is likely not the cause.
For near vision tasks, you can use glasses with a lower prescription and ensure to rest your eyes for at least ten minutes every hour.
This should help alleviate eye strain.
Flashes are often caused by the vitreous pulling on the retina, so please consult an ophthalmologist.
If everything is fine, then there is no need for worry.
In Taiwan, the ophthalmology department at Puzi Hospital is open Monday to Friday from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM and Wednesday afternoons from 1:00 PM to 4:30 PM.
I hope to have the opportunity to assist you.
Gao Pilin

Reply Date: 2015/08/12

More Info

Hello,
Thank you for reaching out with your concerns regarding floaters and visual disturbances. Based on your description, it sounds like you are experiencing a combination of symptoms that can be associated with both floaters and potential issues related to the retina, such as macular degeneration. Let’s break down your symptoms and discuss when it might be necessary to seek further medical attention.

Floaters are small spots or lines that appear in your field of vision, often described as "cobwebs" or "strings." They are typically caused by changes in the vitreous gel that fills the eye, which can become more liquid with age, leading to the formation of these floaters. In your case, having a history of myopia (nearsightedness) can increase the likelihood of experiencing floaters, as the vitreous is more prone to changes in individuals with higher degrees of myopia.

The sudden appearance of a black shadow that does not move with your eye could be concerning. While it may be related to floaters, it could also indicate a more serious condition, such as a retinal tear or detachment. This is particularly true if the shadow appears suddenly and is accompanied by flashes of light or a significant increase in floaters. Flashes of light, or photopsia, occur when the vitreous gel pulls on the retina, which can happen during the aging process or due to trauma. If you experience these symptoms, it is crucial to seek immediate medical attention from an eye care professional.

Regarding the small black dot you see when you blink, this could also be a type of floater or a temporary visual phenomenon. It’s not uncommon for people to notice different visual disturbances when they are tired or have been focusing on screens for extended periods. If these dots appear primarily when you blink and are fleeting, they may not be a cause for concern. However, if they persist or worsen, it’s advisable to consult with an eye specialist.

You mentioned that your glasses prescription might be slightly off, which could contribute to eye strain and discomfort. If your vision feels clear but you experience fatigue or strain, it may be beneficial to have your prescription reevaluated, especially if you spend significant time reading or using screens. Proper lighting and taking regular breaks (the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds) can also help alleviate eye strain.

In summary, while floaters are generally benign, the sudden appearance of new visual disturbances, especially if they are accompanied by flashes of light or shadows, warrants a thorough examination by an eye care professional. It’s essential to monitor your symptoms and seek help if they change or worsen. Regular eye exams are crucial, especially with your history of myopia, to ensure that any potential issues are caught early.

If you have any further questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Your eye health is important, and staying informed is a key part of maintaining it.

Best regards.

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