Pregnancy and Floaters

Together with many other bodily changes, pregnancy can affect the eyes and quality of vision. Hormonal changes during pregnancy are normally responsible for these changes. In most instances these changes are temporary, but occasionally they may indicate more serious conditions. Any concerns over vision problems or eye related changes during pregnancy should trigger consultations with the obstetrician and ophthalmic experts.

Due to hormonal changes pregnant women may experience anything from blurred vision and dry eyes, to irritation, especially for contact lens wearers. Diabetes sufferers may also be prone to the development or worsening of diabetic retinopathy during pregnancy.

Pregnant women complaining of seeing spots in vision should be taken very seriously, because these dark spots may be scotomata. These are stable and typically affect a larger area of the field vision, unlike floaters, which move across the field of vision and are quite normal, whether pregnant or not. Scotomata can be an indication of preeclampsia or eclampsia, which are pregnancy complications that can cause dangerously high blood pressure. Although unusual visual problems may arise, in most cases, eye damage is limited and normal vision will return on resolution of the high blood pressure.

Clearly, the best course of action is to seek professional help as soon as any eye problems become noticeable.

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Eye Cataracts

An eye cataract is the clouding over of the natural lens of the eye, and is the most frequent cause of sight loss in those over the age of 40 and the primary reason for blindness throughout the world.

There are different types of eye cataracts, including:

Subcapsular Cataract

This occurs at the back of the lens, with those people suffering from diabetes or those taking high steroid medication doses at higher risk.

Nuclear Cataract

This type forms at the centre, or nucleus of the lens, and is normally linked to ageing.

Cortical Cataract

Typically white, these usually start at the edge of the lens and work their way into the centre, giving a spoke-like appearance. This type usually occurs in the area of the lens that surrounds the nucleus, which is called the lens cortex.

Eye Cataract Symptoms

At first, a cataract may have very little effect on vision, but a first sign could be a blurring of vision, similar to looking through cloudy glass. Sunlight or lamplight may seem to be excessively bright, colour may be duller, and when night driving, the glare from oncoming headlights may be increased.

If eye cataracts are suspected, an eye examination should be undertaken for confirmation. Other than ageing, there are other risk factors for the development of eye cataracts including:

-Diabetes

-Obesity

-Smoking

-Hypertension

-Alcohol consumption

-Prolonged steroid medication use

-Family history

This list is by no means complete, but what is clear is that lifestyle changes can be of great benefit for many eye problems, ranging from eye floaters to eye cataracts.

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How To Relieve Computer Eye Strain

With the upsurge in computer, mobile phone and tablet use, eye strain has become a major social and job-related problem. Various studies have proven that up to 90% of those involved in computer related work have suffered from some form of eye strain or visual issue.

The following are some ideas that can be taken to reduce the chances of computer eye strain.

1. Comprehensive eye test.
Computer users should have a thorough eye test before starting work on computers and yearly examinations from then on.

2. Proper lighting.
Excessively bright light can be a major causal factor of eye strain

3. Reduce glare.
Consider using anti-glare screens and painting walls a darker colour

4. LCD Screens
Use LCD screens, like those on laptops, as they are much easier on the eyes and usually have an anti-reflective surface.

5. Computer display settings.
Adjusting the computer display settings can help reduce eye strain and tiredness. Altering the brightness, text size, contrast and colour can all prove beneficial.

6. Blink
Blinking is crucial for computer workers, as blinking moistens the eyes and prevents dryness and irritation.

7. Eye exercise

To lessen the chance of tired eyes caused by constantly focusing on the screen, look away from the computer screen at least every 20 minutes and look at a distant object (at least 20 feet away) for at least 20 seconds. This simple eye exercise will relax the focusing muscle inside the eye, and help to reduce fatigue.

8. Frequent breaks.
Taking frequent breaks during the working day will help reduce the chance of eye strain, and neck, back and shoulder pain

9. Workstation modification.
Correct posture, proper lighting and ergonomic furniture should all be taken into consideration.

10. Computer eyewear.
Consider using customized computer eyewear, especially those that wear glasses and contact lens users.

These are just a few suggestions for reducing the risk of visual problems, and making life much more comfortable for computer users.

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How To Protect Your Eyesight

In order to help maintain a good quality of life, protecting your eyesight is one of the most important things that can be done to achieve this aim. The fact is that some form of sight threatening eye problem affects one in six adults over the age of 45, and the risks to sight only increase with age.

To help minimise the risks to eyesight and help keep eyes healthier during ageing, the following simple guidelines could be considered:

Carry out a personal risk assessment for eye diseases.

Look into family health history to discover if there is a history of diabetes or high blood pressure. The risk of sight problems also increases with ageing, so early diagnosis via eye examinations is particularly important.

Have regular checks for diabetes and high blood pressure.

These diseases can cause major eye problems if left untreated. Non-treatment can lead to problems such as diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma and macular degeneration.

Look out for changes to vision.

Any noticeable changes to vision will require immediate medical attention. Some symptoms to watch for include double vision, hazy vision, flashes of light, eye pain, and floaters. These can all be an indication of potential eye health issues.

Exercise more often.

Some evidence suggests that regular exercise, such as walking, can cut the risk of age-related macular degeneration by up to 70%.

Protect eyes from UV light and injury.

Always wear sunglasses with the appropriate level of UV protection to guard against the damaging ultra-violet rays of the sun. This action can help lessen the chances of cataract development or other eye damage. The necessary eye safety equipment should also be worn when working with tools or participating in sporting activities, so that potential physical damage can be avoided.

Eat a healthy and balanced diet.

Many investigations have concluded that antioxidants can possibly reduce the risk of cataracts, so an antioxidant rich diet containing an abundance of fruits and vegetables would seem a wise course of action. Eating fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids may also reduce the chance of developing macular degeneration, and eye health may be further maintained by getting the correct amount of nutrients via supplements of eye vitamins.

Have an eye test least every two years.

A proper eye exam can detect the risk of major eye diseases that have few early warning signs or symptoms, as well as ensuring that prescription glasses or contact lenses are fit for purpose and up to date.

Don't smoke.

Those that smoke are at higher risk of developing age-related macular degeneration and cataracts.

Whilst there is no guarantee that by following these guidelines perfect vision can be preserved, the risks of developing eye problems can be significantly reduced with a healthier lifestyle, together with regular eye examinations.

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Old Age Vision Problems

With time, old age vision problems such as blurred or double vision, colour or night blindness, dry or watery eyes, redness or swelling of an eye are experienced by many. The following are brief descriptions of just some of the afflictions.

Presbyopia

This is the loss of the ability to see close objects, a normal effect of the aging process. Closer objects appear blurred due to the aging and hardening of the lens, usually occurring after the age of 40. Glasses help to correct the defect and a vitamin rich diet can prevent macular degeneration or a worsening of the problem.

Cataracts

These are cloudy spots that develop in the eye lenses with age, resulting in blurred vision. If the cataracts grow, they can cause pain and redness and may lead to a significant reduction in vision. The problem is normally corrected by cataract surgery.

Glaucoma

This is the result of too much fluid pressure within the eye, which can result in total vision loss if not treated swiftly. Fluid pressure inside the eye increases when the watery fluid between the cornea and the lens gets blocked. Eye drops, lasers or surgery may be the treatment options used.

Floaters

Floaters are one of the commonest vision problems due to aging. They are usually noticeable as small specks or cobweb type shapes that may disappear naturally, or risky surgery may be performed, with varying results.

Dry Eyes

Dryness is experienced when the tear glands malfunction, resulting in an itching or burning sensation. Women are more susceptible to the problem. Eye drops or ointments may be prescribed, but more severe bouts may require the use of special contact lenses.

Watery Eyes

Caused by constant tearing, that may be due to light, wind or temperature sensitivity. Goggles may prevent irritation but excessive tearing may be caused by an eye infection or blocked tear glands, so it is essential to seek medical advice.

Retinal Disorders

Regular check ups are the way to identify age-related retinal problems. A detached retina is a serious condition that requires immediate attention. A sudden increase in eye floaters or flashes should be the trigger to take professional advice.

This list is by no means exhaustive, but it is clear that eye care is vital, particularly with aging. A healthy diet and regular checkups can help prevent old age vision problems.

Eye problems or eye pain should never be neglected.

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Vitrectomy Surgery Recovery

The clear gel-like substance that fills the eye, the vitreous humour, may need to be removed in order to eliminate debris that is responsible for eye floaters. This surgical procedure is called a vitrectomy. As with any operation, it is prudent to gain an understanding of possible complications that may hamper vitrectomy surgery recovery, which may include eye redness, reduced vision and discharge.

Directly following surgery, the likelihood is that the patient will be given an eye patch to wear in order to protect the eye. This may usually be removed after a day or so, and may be replaced by a plastic shield to maintain eye protection. This shield is particularly useful in the first few days of vitrectomy surgery recovery, especially to protect the eye when sleeping or taking showers. The main recommendation following the procedure is to relax, and refrain from any strenuous exercise or lifting of heavy objects.

Antibiotic eye drops may be prescribed to prevent infection, and sometimes anti-inflammatory drops are offered, as well as pain relievers so that the recovery is as comfortable as possible. Cold compresses could also be used.

Obviously, a little discomfort should be expected during vitrectomy surgery recovery, but severe or prolonged pain should not occur. If this is the case, then the advice of medical professionals is essential. Any redness, swelling or discharge may well be a sign of an underlying problem such as infection. Also abnormal during vitrectomy recovery is a reduction in vision, or an increase in floaters and flashes, so once again, prompt medical attention will be required to prevent any longer term issues.

It is not surprising therefore, that many sufferers have preferred to follow the natural approach to eye floater treatment, and try to avoid surgery altogether.

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Vitrectomy Surgery

A vitrectomy for eye floaters is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of the vitreous humour, the gel-like substance found in the eye, in order to eradicate the dots and specks in the vision of the patient.

A vitrectomy is frequently used to treat conditions such as a detached retina and diabetic eye disease, but the same surgical procedures can be utilised to get rid of eye floaters as well. The operation can be lengthy, so a general anaesthetic is often needed, although this would depend on various other factors such as the health of the patient. Not all eye floaters sufferers are suitable for the procedure, and may only be used in the more extreme cases. Even so, many surgeons are reluctant to consider vitrectomy surgery for floaters as the condition is not deemed serious enough.

The procedure involves the insertion of instruments into the eye through tiny holes, which are used to extract the vitreous humour from the eye. Water or gas is then used as a replacement, and once completed, the holes are closed, leaving no visible marks.

Following a vitrectomy for floaters, the patient will normally be required to stay in hospital for at least one night. Initially, the eye will be swollen, red and will frequently water, and most patients find that it can take up to two months for normal vision to return. No strenuous exercise should be undertaken during the first few weeks.

A proper risk assessment should be undertaken before considering  vitrectomy surgery for floaters. As mentioned, in the majority of cases, normal sight returns after the recovery period, but up to 10% of patients may experience other problems. These issues can include bleeding in the eye, infection and retinal detachment, and in addition, there is no guarantee that all eye floaters will be removed.

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Vitreous Detachment

Vitreous detachment is a condition of the eye that arises when the vitreous humour detaches itself from the retina. When this happens, sight disorders occur such as light flashes and eye floaters. Although vitreous detachment does not normally lead to sight problems in the long term, the chances of retinal detachment are slightly raised, which can lead to vision loss. The condition is quite common, especially in older people, with approximately 75% of those people over the age of 65 experiencing symptoms at some stage.

The eye itself is filled with a gel-like substance called the vitreous humour. Consisting of 99% water and 1% proteins and collagen, it helps the eye to maintain shape. In time, this gel becomes increasingly more fluid, maybe leading to shrinkage in the gel, and as a result, the outer area of the gel may become detached from the retina.

Light flashes are very common in those that suffer vitreous detachment, occurring following the stimulation of the retina as the gel pulls away. Eye floaters are formed as a result of the changes to the gel viscosity, causing small specks that cast shadows on the retina.

Vitreous detachment alone is not dangerous, and does not lead to a loss in vision. Following initial detachment, a sudden rush of light flashes and vitreous floaters is commonplace. The rate of these symptoms usually decreases within 6 months, although the majority of people will still experience low levels of flashes and floaters. In some cases, vitreous detachment may cause the retina to tear, and if not treated, may lead to retinal detachment, which could mean temporary, or even permanent loss of vision.

In general, it is not necessary to treat vitreous detachment, and although eye floaters and flashes can be irritating, they are not harmful. Even so, care should be taken to monitor the condition for any signs of retinal tears or retinal detachment, which include symptoms such as a darkening of vision in the affected eye, or a sudden increase in the frequency of flashes and floaters. If noticed, prompt treatment from a qualified medical practitioner should be obtained.

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Photopsia

Photopsia is the term used for the condition when people appear to see flashes of light. Frequently, these flashes appear alongside a migraine, and in fact, migraine sufferers use the flashes as a signal of an upcoming migraine. Those people over the age of 65 are the most likely to be affected, and the most common cause of these eye flashes is the shrinkage of the vitreous humour within the eye.

The vitreous humour is the transparent substance in the centre of the eyes, mostly made up of water, and is responsible for the shape and form of the eye. Photopsia generally is caused by the shrinking of the vitreous humour, which applies tension to the attachment points, which agitates the retina causing the emission of electrical impulses that are interpreted as flashes of light by the brain. 

Vitreous humour shrinkage is not the only cause of photopsia. For example, severe impact to the head can easily cause the retina to pull away from the eyeball, and when this happens momentary flashes of light may be seen.

As mentioned, photopsia can be the signal for the onset of a migraine. Migraines may be caused when the blood vessels in the brain quiver, or if the retina becomes detached from connecting nerves. The flashing lights, which may look like sparks, zig zags or lines of light, may last for a brief period or be longer lasting throughout the course of the migraine.

This perception of flashes of light should be treated seriously, and prompt investigation by a medical professional is advisable. Generally speaking, the experience of eye flashes is no reason for concern, but in very rare instances, photopsia can lead to certain levels of loss of vision.

During the normal ageing process, the vitreous humour will shrink, becomes thinner, and will begin to pull away from the retina. In fact, approximately two thirds of the over 65s will be affected by some degree of vitreous humour shrinkage, leading to many experiencing flashing lights. It should be noted that a major increase in the number of photopsia occurrences may possibly indicate a torn retina.

Clearly, it is essential to recognize and understand photopsia signs.

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