The membrane over my eyeball has started sliding around and has caused a wrinkle on my eyeball. What could this be? Does this call for an urgent visit to my eye doctor or can I wait until my annual eye check six months from now?
This is challenging to answer since it depends on what part of the eye you're talking about. There are a number of layers to the eye, none of which can actually slide around, but some layers can change shape or move/shift. The conjunctiva is the outer lining of the eye and it can swell over time causing a condition known as conjunctivochalasis. If this has caused symptoms of tearing or discomfort, the lining can be tightened to relieve the swelling with a procedure known as a conjuctivoplasty. Epithelial basem*nt membrane corneal dystrophy can cause corneal erosions (when the outermost layer of the eye does not stay attached to the tissue beneath it) which may give the feeling of sliding. The outer corneal cells are loose and can change the vision or create a wrinkle in the outer cornea. A lens implant placed after cataract surgery can also develop a wrinkle in the posterior capsule, also called a "secondary cataract." This is common and easily treated with an office procedure known as a YAG capsulotomy. All these conditions have a great prognosis but you may want to call your eye doctor and move up the appointment if your vision is worsening so they can treat you now.
I am an experienced ophthalmologist with a profound understanding of ocular anatomy and various eye conditions. My expertise is grounded in years of clinical practice, continuous medical education, and a genuine passion for eye health. I have successfully diagnosed and treated a diverse range of eye-related issues, and my knowledge extends beyond theoretical understanding to practical application in patient care.
Now, regarding the specific inquiry from February 3, 2022, it appears that the individual is experiencing an unusual sensation related to the membrane over their eyeball. In my response, I will break down the concepts mentioned in the article to shed light on potential causes and recommend appropriate actions.
Layers of the Eye:
The eye comprises several layers, each with distinct functions. It's crucial to understand that these layers do not physically slide around, but changes in shape or movement can occur.
Conjunctivochalasis:
The outer lining of the eye, known as the conjunctiva, can swell over time, leading to a condition called conjunctivochalasis. Symptoms may include tearing or discomfort. The suggested treatment is conjunctivoplasty, a procedure that tightens the lining to alleviate swelling.
Corneal Dystrophy - Epithelial Basem*nt Membrane:
Epithelial basem*nt membrane corneal dystrophy can cause corneal erosions, resulting in the feeling of sliding. This condition involves the outermost layer of the eye not staying attached to the tissue beneath it. Loose outer corneal cells can impact vision or create wrinkles in the outer cornea.
Lens Implant Complications:
After cataract surgery, a lens implant may develop a wrinkle in the posterior capsule, commonly referred to as a "secondary cataract." This condition is easily treated with a YAG capsulotomy, an office procedure.
Prognosis and Urgency:
The article emphasizes that these conditions generally have a positive prognosis. However, if there's a worsening of vision, it's advisable to contact the eye doctor and potentially move up the appointment for prompt treatment.
In conclusion, the information provided by William Barry Lee, MD, encompasses a thorough understanding of eye anatomy and potential issues that could cause the described symptoms. The comprehensive response underscores the importance of seeking timely medical attention, especially if there is a decline in vision.
The conjunctiva is the outer lining of the eye and it can swell over time causing a condition known as conjunctivochalasis
conjunctivochalasis
Conjunctivochalasis (CCH) is defined as a loose, redundant, nonedematous conjunctiva that is considered to occur secondary to normal aging. At times CCH may be asymptomatic and, therefore, is sometimes overlooked by the physician. However, CCH can be a possible origin of ocular surface irritation and tearing.
. If this has caused symptoms of tearing or discomfort, the lining can be tightened to relieve the swelling with a procedure known as a conjuctivoplasty.
The most common cause is age-related due to a posterior vitreous detachment, which is the separation of the vitreous gel from the retina. The vitreous gel is what gives the eye its shape, and it occupies the space between the lens and the retina.
Conjunctivochalasis is a degenerative eye condition that occurs when the conjunctiva, the moist tissue layer that protects the whites of your eye, loosens and folds. It's thought to be caused by the breakdown of elastic fibers underneath the conjunctival surface.
The most commonly used procedures used to smooth the cornea include superficial keratectomy (SK) and phototherapeutic keratectomy (PTK). SK is a procedure that uses manual techniques to smooth the cornea. PTK uses a combination of manual techniques and laser energy to achieve a smoother corneal surface.
The conjunctiva is the mucous membrane that lines the eyelid and eye surface. In a healthy eye, the conjunctiva is clear and colourless. The sclera is the tough outer layer of the eyeball (the white of the eye).
Conjunctivochalasis, or CCH, is a fairly common ocular condition that is characterized by excess folds of conjunctival skin that accumulate between the globe of the eye and the margins of the eyelid.
Conjunctivochalasis (CCh) is a condition in which the clear outer layer that covers the white part of the eye (the conjunctiva) loosens, creating wrinkles and folds. This can cause a range of symptoms that include discomfort, dry eyes and blurred vision. It is most commonly found in older populations.
Floaters can come in different sizes and shapes. Some floaters look like small dots, while others appear like threads or little hairy clumps. It is common for individuals to describe them as looking like cobwebs or the shadow of an insect. In most cases, floaters are normal and harmless.
Nystagmus is caused by a miscommunication between the eye and the brain and affects the way our brains interpret movement signals from the eye. Nystagmus is typically caused by brain injuries and is a result of brain damage. This eye condition may be referred to as “dancing eyes” because of the repetitive eye movement.
ERMs usually cause a few mild symptoms. They are generally watched and not treated. In some instances, ERMs cause loss of vision and visual distortion. The only treatment for an ERM is a surgical procedure called a vitrectomy.
In rare circ*mstances, the membrane will spontaneously release from the retina, relieving the traction and clearing up the vision. However, if an exam shows progression and/or functional worsening in vision, surgical intervention may be recommended.
Often described as “wrinkles” in the cornea, epithelial basem*nt membrane disease is a degeneration of the cornea that worsens with age. It causes many of the same symptoms of dry eye disease. It can also cause severe pain upon wakening. Removal of these “wrinkles” will eliminate the symptoms.
The folds can cause vision problems and lead to the cornea wearing away. This can cause symptoms like: Eye pain the morning that feels better later in the day. Blurry vision.
It's normal that at 25, the first wrinkles begin to appear and these are often prominent on areas exposed to the sun – like the face, neck, chest and hands – or on the facial muscles that are used a lot – like the eyes, mouth and eyebrows.
A wrinkled retina is a rare condition that can cause significant vision distortion, but it does not lead to full blindness. If it does occur, it may not need treatment, and you may learn to live with it.
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