"Kaleidoscope eye"

[morgar]

Hi - I am a 58yo male and wear multifocal specs and use computers a lot in my work. For several years I have experienced bouts of a particular disturbance in both eyes at the same time. It starts out as a small prism like effect which gradually spirals in my vision - then after a few minutes it slowly dissipates. The effect really isnt in my eyesight as it is still there when I close my eyes and cannot be blocked out. I sit quietly, avoid light and have a drink of water during the episodes. I dont experience any especial pains such as migraines etc and seem to fully recover. I think it may be related to lack of electrolytes and mild dehydration but would like some guidance onthe possible causes. I know of only one other person who has the same symptoms but hers goes on to be a migraine. Any thoughts please?

[JohnHaganMD]

Glad it was helpful. Discuss with your ophthalmologist. good luck in your treatment. JCH MD

[ariesr]

Thank you for this page. This year I was given a diangosis of lung cancer and wondered if it is related as I have also experienced this "C" prism effect in both eyes this year. CT scans show no new growths apart from the two that we know about.

[JohnHaganMD]

The "gnat" was not part of an ophthalmic migraine but likely a floater. Since you only have one eye with vision I would suggest you see an ophthalmologist to examine your retina. this is especially important if you have any momentary, bright flashes of light or any loss of peripheral vision that does not clear.  
JCH MD

[rbbrkr55]

I have the same prisms in my right eye. I am blind in my left eye. I have been to many Drs who say nothing. Tonight I also had what I thought was a gnat flying around the outer portion of my eye, which I could see when I closed my eye... that and the prism  at the same time. It made it almost impossible to see. I sat down and closed my eyes for about 1/2 hour before they let up.

[JohnHaganMD]

bobn323:  You may want to print the article linked below out and take it to your physician that manages your migraines.

http://www.medhelp.org/neurology/articles/Acute-Migraines-Relieved-By-Beta-Blocker-Eye-Drops/1574

JCH MD

[Shannonde1]

Mine starts as a little dot then grows into a C shape then disappears. When it gets the peripheral part is when I get sick to my stomach. I have had them happen infrequently over the last 20 years with no known trigger. I will have to watch my water and get my BP lower and see how that works.