Protecting Your Eyes: Tips for Managing Myopia and Floaters

Depression of the Eyes

Hello Dr.
Wang,
A few days ago, I experienced a significant increase in floaters and flashes of light when I moved my eyes while closed.
I have high myopia of over 700 degrees.
I visited two clinics for dilated eye exams, and both doctors said there were no issues, just that my retina is a bit thin.
I have some questions:
1.
How can I protect my retina and promote its thickness or health?
2.
I am currently in the third year of junior high and preparing for exams, which means I have to study a lot.
Besides resting my eyes, what other methods can I use to protect my vision?
3.
I take the bus to school every day.
Does the constant swaying and sudden stops of the bus pose a risk to my retina or worsen my floaters? How should I manage this?
4.
As a 14-year-old with over 700 degrees of myopia, is my future vision at significant risk? I feel very anxious about this.
5.
I notice my floaters appear even when I read, and there are many of them.
Is there any way to alleviate these symptoms?
6.
Recently, I have been doing acupressure massage around my eyes, but my eyes feel increasingly strained and swollen.
Is it advisable to perform eye massages with high myopia? I've heard that eye massages can increase intraocular pressure; is this true?
7.
What can I do to prevent complications related to my eyes?
Thank you, doctor, for your patience in reading and responding.
Wishing you good health and safety.

Nianqing bingren, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/10/18

Dr. Wang Zhishun reply Ophthalmology

Hello,
1.
The retina cannot be made thicker.

2.
To protect the eyes and the retina, in addition to resting the eyes and getting adequate sleep, avoid rubbing the eyes, consume a variety of colorful vegetables, and minimize exposure to ultraviolet light.
Limit the use of electronic devices; all of these measures can be beneficial.

3.
When taking the bus, avoid reading or using electronic devices; the bus's constant movement and sudden stops should not harm the retina and are unlikely to significantly affect floaters.

4.
High myopia is associated with more complications, but there is no need for excessive concern.
Just be mindful of eye care and have regular follow-up examinations.

5.
To alleviate the symptoms of floaters, it is best to wait for them to naturally diminish; laser or surgical treatments are generally not recommended.

6.
When massaging the eyes, be careful not to apply pressure to the eyeball, as this should not affect intraocular pressure.

Wishing you peace and health.

Reply Date: 2015/10/18

More Info

Protecting your eyes, especially when dealing with myopia (nearsightedness) and floaters, is crucial for maintaining your vision and overall eye health. Given your situation, here are some comprehensive tips and insights that can help you manage your eye health effectively.

1. Protecting and Strengthening the Retina
To promote retinal health, consider the following strategies:
- Nutrition: A diet rich in antioxidants can help protect your eyes. Foods high in vitamins C and E, omega-3 fatty acids, and zinc are beneficial. Leafy greens, fish, nuts, and citrus fruits are excellent choices.

- Regular Eye Exams: Since you have been diagnosed with a thin retina, regular check-ups with an eye care professional are essential. They can monitor any changes and provide timely interventions if necessary.

- Avoid Eye Strain: Limit prolonged screen time and ensure you take regular breaks using the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds.

2. Study Habits and Eye Protection
As a student preparing for exams, it's important to balance study time with eye care:
- Proper Lighting: Ensure your study area is well-lit to reduce strain. Avoid glare from screens and use blue light filters if necessary.

- Frequent Breaks: Incorporate short breaks into your study sessions. This not only helps your eyes but also improves concentration and retention.

- Ergonomic Setup: Maintain a proper distance from your books and screens (about 20-30 inches) and ensure your posture is correct to avoid additional strain.

3. Managing Movement While Commuting
Regarding your concerns about commuting:
- Public Transport: While the motion of a bus can be jarring, it generally does not cause direct harm to the retina. However, if you experience discomfort or increased floaters during these rides, consider sitting in a more stable position or using a neck pillow for support.

- Mindfulness: Practice mindfulness techniques to help manage any anxiety related to movement. Deep breathing can also help reduce stress.

4. Long-term Outlook on Myopia
At 14 years old with significant myopia, it’s understandable to feel concerned about your future eye health. While high myopia can increase the risk of complications such as retinal detachment, glaucoma, and cataracts, proactive management can mitigate these risks. Regular eye exams and following your eye care provider's recommendations are key.

5. Managing Floaters
Floaters can be bothersome, especially when reading:
- Adaptation: Often, people learn to ignore floaters over time. If they become more pronounced or change suddenly, consult your eye doctor.

- Hydration and Rest: Staying hydrated and ensuring adequate sleep can help reduce eye fatigue, which may lessen the perception of floaters.

6. Eye Massage and Pressure
Regarding eye massages:
- Caution with Massage: While gentle massage around the eyes can promote relaxation, be cautious. Excessive pressure can potentially increase intraocular pressure, especially in individuals with high myopia. If you experience discomfort, it’s best to stop.

- Consultation: Always consult with your eye care provider before starting any new eye care regimen, including massages.

7. Preventing Complications
To prevent complications associated with myopia:
- Protective Eyewear: Use sunglasses with UV protection when outdoors to shield your eyes from harmful rays.

- Limit Rubbing: Avoid rubbing your eyes, as this can cause irritation and potential damage.

- Stay Informed: Educate yourself about the signs of retinal detachment or other serious conditions, such as sudden increases in floaters, flashes of light, or shadowy areas in your vision, and seek immediate medical attention if they occur.

In conclusion, while managing myopia and floaters can be challenging, adopting a proactive approach to eye care can significantly improve your quality of life. Regular check-ups, a healthy lifestyle, and mindful study habits are essential components of maintaining your eye health. Always feel free to reach out to your eye care professional with any concerns or questions you may have.

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