Floaters, Ophthalmology FAQ

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Understanding Eye Floaters and Bright Spots: A Guide for Diabetics

Bright spots in the eyes? Hello, Doctor Gao. I have diabetes with a current HbA1c of 6.2. I am experiencing floaters and mild cataracts, and I would like to ask you some questions. Thank you. 1. Can I apply warm compresses and massage my eyes with elevated intraocular pressure, ...


Dr. Gao Pilin Reply:
Hello: 1. High intraocular pressure, mild cataracts, and floaters: Generally, mild warm compresses can help relieve eye fatigue, but excessive massage should be avoided to prevent pressure on the eyeball, especially in patients with high intraocular pressure or cataracts. 2. F...

[Read More] Understanding Eye Floaters and Bright Spots: A Guide for Diabetics


Understanding the Difference Between Vitreous and Retinal Detachment Flashes

Photopsia Hello, doctor. I would like to ask a few questions: What is the difference between the flashes of light caused by vitreous detachment and retinal detachment? Is it related to the frequency of occurrence? If I suddenly experience a flash of light once and it does not rec...


Dr. Gao Pilin Reply:
Hello: Regarding your question, there are some differences between the phenomenon of flashes caused by vitreous detachment and retinal detachment: 1. Vitreous Detachment: As we age, the vitreous humor gradually liquefies and separates from the retina, which is a common occurrence...

[Read More] Understanding the Difference Between Vitreous and Retinal Detachment Flashes


Managing Cataracts in High Myopia: Options for Balanced Vision

High myopia cataract Hello, I am a person with high myopia (suffering from floaters) and have cataracts in my right eye (currently unable to measure accurate refractive error; previously, vision was the same as my left eye). My left eye has a refractive error of -9.00 diopters (c...


Dr. He Jianxian Reply:
Dear Ms. Tsui, The choice between single vision or multifocal lenses depends entirely on your work and lifestyle. Neither option has an absolute advantage, and both come with relative disadvantages. Given your situation, I recommend not retaining any prescription after the surge...

[Read More] Managing Cataracts in High Myopia: Options for Balanced Vision


Vision Issues in Seniors: Is Cataract Surgery the Right Choice?

Vision problems in the elderly? Hello, doctor. My elderly relative is over 80 years old and has blurry vision for both distance and near. Due to their age, they have chronic conditions such as heart disease and hypertension. They wear glasses for both near and distance vision, bu...


Dr. He Jianxian Reply:
Dear Mr. Xiao You: If cataracts are affecting your vision and daily life, relying on corrective lenses may not be very effective. If the situation allows, you might consider addressing the cataract issue, as it could lead to more significant improvement. Director He Jianxian, Oph...

[Read More] Vision Issues in Seniors: Is Cataract Surgery the Right Choice?


Understanding the Sparkling Dots in Your Vision: Causes and Concerns

Seeing small bright spots in the sky that resemble stars? Dear Doctor, I started experiencing floaters (transparent specks) this month. At the beginning of the month, I had an eye exam to check my retina, and everything was fine. However, today while looking at the sky, I notice...


Dr. He Jianxian Reply:
Dear Mr. Lyon: I am unable to understand what you mean by "light spots." This phenomenon seems to occur only when looking at the sky, which is somewhat unusual. Clinically, I have not encountered similar cases. I recommend that you undergo another retinal examination....

[Read More] Understanding the Sparkling Dots in Your Vision: Causes and Concerns


Understanding Corneal Issues: Are Your Eye Flashes Related to Retinal Detachment?

Flashes and corneal issues? I have had keratoconus for about twelve years and have been regularly visiting the clinic every year. This year, in early April, I noticed a small area in my vision that flashes when I blink. After my follow-up appointment, I asked the doctor about it,...


Dr. Gao Pilin Reply:
Hello: The sensation of flashes and changes in vision may be related to retinal issues and should be taken seriously. Keratoconus itself can lead to blurred or distorted vision, but flashes and changes in color are less common. Common symptoms of retinal detachment include a sudd...

[Read More] Understanding Corneal Issues: Are Your Eye Flashes Related to Retinal Detachment?


Understanding Eye Flashes: When to Seek Help for Retinal Concerns

Flashes of light in the peripheral vision? I have high myopia and underwent dilation two months ago (I have mild floaters and occasional flashes). During the dilation, the doctor mentioned that the condition of my retina was good, but there was some thinning in the peripheral are...


Dr. Gao Pilin Reply:
Hello: Based on your description, the small white arc flashes in the corner of your eye may be caused by traction from the vitreous body within the eye, commonly referred to as photopsia. For a patient with high myopia like yourself, it is indeed important to pay special attentio...

[Read More] Understanding Eye Flashes: When to Seek Help for Retinal Concerns


Understanding Eye Flashes and Floaters in High Myopia Patients

Eye twitching Hello Doctor: I am severely myopic (approximately -1100 diopters in both eyes). In January of this year, I began experiencing floaters (transparent strands, occasionally with small black dots). Later, I occasionally noticed flashes of light, mostly resembling flicke...


Dr. Gao Pilin Reply:
Hello: Based on your description, you have high myopia and floaters, and you have recently experienced occasional flashes of light. These conditions do require special attention, as individuals with high myopia are more prone to retinal issues. 1. Floaters and Flashes: - Flo...

[Read More] Understanding Eye Flashes and Floaters in High Myopia Patients


Understanding Posterior Vitreous Detachment: Symptoms and Concerns

Posterior vitreous detachment Hello Doctor, due to my constitution, I was diagnosed with cataracts last year and I do not have myopia. In May, I underwent vitrectomy combined with intraocular lens implantation due to a rupture of the posterior capsule of the lens in my left eye. ...


Dr. Gao Pilin Reply:
Hello: Based on your description, you underwent vitrectomy and intraocular lens implantation for cataracts last year, and your recovery has been good. However, you have recently experienced some new visual symptoms. Here are some explanations and recommendations regarding your si...

[Read More] Understanding Posterior Vitreous Detachment: Symptoms and Concerns


Seeing Fixed Bright Spots When Blinking: Should You Worry?

Fixed bright spots appearing during blinking? Hello doctor, I recently noticed a bright spot at a fixed position when I blink, but it disappears once my eyes are open. Could this be a sign of retinal disease?


Dr. Gao Pilin Reply:
Hello: You mentioned that recently you see a bright spot at a fixed location when you blink, which disappears when your eyes are open. This phenomenon may have several causes. Here are some possible explanations and recommendations: Possible Causes: 1. Vitreous Changes: Changes ...

[Read More] Seeing Fixed Bright Spots When Blinking: Should You Worry?


Understanding Visual Field Issues: Are They Related to Floaters?

Visual field issues Hello doctor, I recently noticed that when I look at something with one eye, a certain point just outside the center of my vision causes that object to disappear. Both eyes have the same condition, and the object seems to blend into the background. Could this ...


Dr. Gao Pilin Reply:
Hello: Based on your description, the phenomenon of objects disappearing at a certain point in the central vision of one eye, and both eyes experiencing the same condition, may be related to issues with the retina or optic nerve. Floaters typically present as floating black dots ...

[Read More] Understanding Visual Field Issues: Are They Related to Floaters?


Understanding Floaters and Flashes: Exercise Guidelines for Eye Health

Vitreous floaters combined with photopsia? Hello, doctor. I have myopia with a prescription of -5.25 in my right eye and -5.00 in my left eye. Last week, I suddenly experienced symptoms of floaters in my right eye, accompanied by flashes of light (which I only see when I turn my ...


Dr. Gao Pilin Reply:
Hello: Thank you for your detailed description. Floaters and flashes are typically associated with vitreous degeneration and retinal traction. The symptoms you described do require attention, especially given the presence of areas of retinal weakness. 1. Are activities like jum...

[Read More] Understanding Floaters and Flashes: Exercise Guidelines for Eye Health


Understanding Chronic Conjunctivitis: Links to Floaters and Dry Eye Issues

Chronic conjunctival inflammation and issues related to floaters and dry eye syndrome? Hello Doctor: 1. I started experiencing dry eyes and photophobia around March of this year. After an examination at a major hospital, I was diagnosed with chronic giant papillary conjunctivit...


Dr. Gao Pilin Reply:
Hello: 1. Causes of Chronic Giant Papillary Conjunctivitis: Chronic giant papillary conjunctivitis is often associated with contact lens wear, but it can also be caused by foreign bodies in the eyelid (such as sutures or prosthetic eyes). Even if you do not wear contact lenses ...

[Read More] Understanding Chronic Conjunctivitis: Links to Floaters and Dry Eye Issues


Understanding Snow Vision Syndrome: Symptoms, Concerns, and Management Tips

Snow blindness related? Regarding question 210141, is it necessary to visit a neurologist or neuro-ophthalmologist to diagnose "visual snow syndrome"? Most of the information available indicates that there is no treatment for "visual snow syndrome." Can it be ...


Dr. Gao Pilin Reply:
Hello: Visual snow syndrome is a visual phenomenon where patients see particles or dots resembling snowflakes moving in their field of vision. This symptom requires a detailed examination by a neuro-ophthalmologist or neurologist for diagnosis, as visual snow syndrome may involve...

[Read More] Understanding Snow Vision Syndrome: Symptoms, Concerns, and Management Tips


Understanding Persistent Visual Disturbances: Are They Signs of Retinal Degeneration?

Flashing, flickering, lightning—it's hard to describe? In mid-June, I underwent a dilated eye exam, and the doctor explained that there were no symptoms, only the presence of floaters. Since I have not experienced any retinal tears or detachments, the doctor advised that I o...


Dr. Gao Pilin Reply:
Hello: Based on the symptoms you described, the persistent phenomenon of "flashes, lightning, flickering, and water patterns," which occurs even when your eyes are closed, is indeed concerning. However, since you underwent a dilated eye examination in mid-June and no ab...

[Read More] Understanding Persistent Visual Disturbances: Are They Signs of Retinal Degeneration?


Understanding Vitreous Liquefaction and Its Effects on Vision

Vitreous liquefaction Hello, Doctor: I had a retinal examination a month ago, and there were no issues, but there was vitreous liquefaction. Recently, I have been experiencing frequent flashes of light, so I went for another check-up. The doctor said it is a normal phenomenon, bu...


Dr. Gao Pilin Reply:
Hello: Vitreous liquefaction is a common phenomenon that occurs with aging or changes in myopia. After vitreous liquefaction, it can sometimes cause traction on the retina, leading to the sensation of flashes of light. This is due to the pulling or tugging at the junction between...

[Read More] Understanding Vitreous Liquefaction and Its Effects on Vision


Understanding Visual Snow Syndrome: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Concerns

Regarding question 21141? Regarding question 210141, I would like to ask if my condition might be related to "visual snow," as I feel there are some similarities. If so, what kind of examinations should I undergo, and which specialty should I consult? Currently, my visi...


Dr. Gao Pilin Reply:
Hello: Based on the symptoms you described, the persistent phenomenon of "flashes, lightning, flickering, and water waves," which occurs even when your eyes are closed, is indeed concerning. However, since you underwent a dilated eye exam in mid-June and no abnormalitie...

[Read More] Understanding Visual Snow Syndrome: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Concerns


Understanding Visual Disturbances After Retinal Laser Treatment

After retinal tear laser treatment, the patient may experience Weiss ring and decreased light perception? Dear Dr. Gao, I had laser treatment for a retinal tear in my left eye last month, and the next day I experienced a Weiss ring along with numerous small black floaters. This ...


Dr. Gao Pilin Reply:
Hello: 1. The effect of Weiss rings on light: Weiss rings are a common phenomenon during vitreous detachment. These dark shadows or ring-like structures typically do not directly affect the amount of light entering the eye, but they may cause visual disturbances, especially aga...

[Read More] Understanding Visual Disturbances After Retinal Laser Treatment


What to Do If a Barber Brushes Your Hair into Your Eye?

If a hairdresser accidentally brushes against the eyeball while styling hair, it is important to take the following steps: 1. **Stay Calm**: Try to remain calm to avoid further irritation. 2. **Do Not Rub the Eye**: Avoid rubbing the eye, as this can cause more damage. 3. **Flus...


Dr. Gao Pilin Reply:
Hello: First, please relax. It seems that there are no immediate signs of obvious external injury or changes in vision, which is a good sign. However, given your high myopia and thinning of the macula, it is still important to proceed with caution. Here are some recommendations: ...

[Read More] What to Do If a Barber Brushes Your Hair into Your Eye?


Understanding Vitreous Degeneration: When to Seek Further Eye Exams

Vitreous degeneration? I would like to ask the doctor, recently due to vitreous degeneration, I have already undergone dilated fundus examination, fundus photography, and OCT at a clinic and the results were all normal. Last night, as I was going to sleep, I felt like there was w...


Dr. Gao Pilin Reply:
Hello: Based on your description, you have recently undergone dilation, fundus photography, and optical coherence tomography (OCT) examinations, all of which yielded normal results. This indicates that there are currently no significant lesions in your eyes. However, you mentione...

[Read More] Understanding Vitreous Degeneration: When to Seek Further Eye Exams


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