Vision problem - only occurs when looking close up

[timmybosko]

In my center vision in both eyes I get a small oval area (about the size of a nickel) that looks like tiny black and white dots. This only occurs when I am looking at something close up like opening locks, cleaning guns etc.. It goes away about 30 minutes after I stop doing that activity..

When it is active,, it is more obvious when looking at white backgrounds and when I read something, all the letters under the small oval dotted area are diffused and difficult to read. Once in a great while, this makes me nauseous.  

Has anyone heard of this or does anyone have this issue?.. Please let me know..

You can e-mail me at timmy_bosko***@**** if you like.

Thanks

[JohnHaganMD]

I have had patients give that description. If it is a non-headache associated migraine you can close your eyes, put your hands over your eyelids to block out all light. If it is a migraine type central scotoma you will still be able to see it. If its coming for visible light creating a problem on your maculas the spot will not be visible.

[timmybosko]

Just wanted to add something after re-reading your initial reply.. I never get headaches with this issue nor do I get a aura prior to this happening.

I have had auras twice in my life. Once about 2 years ago and once again about a month ago. They last about 30-45 mins and then slowly dissipate.

I experience nothing unusual prior to this happening.. The only way I know this will happen is when I do activities like described in my initial post..

Have you ever heard of anyone experiencing the vision issue I describe in my initial post above?

Really interested in knowing if you (or anyone else) has..

Thanks again..

[MBVance]

My friend was in an auto accident and he has a huge hematoma in his eye, should he seek medical attention.? Thank you

[JohnHaganMD]

Yes ideally he should see an Eye MD ophthalmologist or go to an ER that has Eye MDs on staff.  JCH MD

[MBVance]

My friend was in an auto accident and he has a hematoma in his eye, please advise on what he should do, maybe if he sees the answer he WILL SEEK MEDICAL ATTENTION!!!!! Thank you!

[timmybosko]

Thank-You for the quick reply. I saw my eye doctor last year and he said I do have some minor macular degeneration in my left eye. Right eye looks good. At that time I was 52 years old.

I have that grid on my refrigerator and check it frequently. My right eye shows no issues but with my left eye, about 3 squares straight out to the left from the center dot, the top and bottom sides of the square are curved so it looks more like a circle than an square and that area has like a gray cloudy tint to it.

I assumed that because I am seeing the oval dotted area in both eyes (covering one at a time) meant that it wasn't necessarily associated with macular degeneration and something completely different.    

That and the fact that it only happens when I am doing an activity where I am looking at something close to my eyes for about 15 minutes vice constantly. Thats when it starts so again I didn't connect this issue to the macular degeneration..

Again appreciate the fast reply..  

[JohnHaganMD]

I would strongly suggest you see an Eye MD ophthalmologist. With a Dx of macular degeneration any change in central vision needs the Eye MD to make sure "dry" ARMD has not turned into "wet" ARMD.  You need an macular OCT very soon. Also be sure you understand the things to slow mac degen like Preservision 2 AREDS 2 supplements.

[JohnHaganMD]

You definitely need to see an Eye MD for an eye examination. It is not a variation of anything normal. Read about Amsler Grid testing, print out an Amsler test sheet and test your eyes when you see it next. Possibilities include macular pathology or an ophthalmic migraine central scotoma (which may not have a headache associated with it.)