Seeking Insights on Visual Disturbances
Hello everyone, I’ve scheduled a medical appointment, but the waiting period is around eight months due to where I live, which leaves me feeling quite anxious. I’m a 39-year-old male, living with type 2 diabetes and suspected Liddle syndrome, resulting in severe hypertension. I also experience some form of atrial fibrillation. My current medications include candesartan, metformin, amiloride, and bisoprolol. Earlier this year, I unexpectedly experienced retinal edema, which was followed by visual snow and palinopsia. I observed that the visual snow typically occurs right after I wake up. Although I’ve arranged for an eye appointment, the wait to see a specialist here is around four months. Fortunately, I made a connection between the visual snow and my obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). I managed to get a sleep test appointment—though it took 15 months to arrange—and in the meantime, I purchased an Auto CPAP and adjusted it according to guidance I found online. This approach helped eliminate the visual snow, and the retinal edema seemed to resolve as well. However, I’ve noticed that palinopsia, or something resembling it, reappears from time to time. I’m looking for assistance in identifying this visual phenomenon, as I want to relay this information clearly to my specialist. Regrettably, English isn't my native language. What I experience is that when I focus on an object, like a vase, and then either close my eyes or shift my gaze, I can see an afterimage of the vase shape for a couple of seconds. This afterimage appears as an outline filled with either light or dark shades, depending on what I was viewing. It’s similar to the way one might see the imprint of a bright light after closing their eyes. I’ve done my best to articulate this, but I often find that doctors tend to rush through appointments, spending only five to ten minutes before moving on to the next patient, which is quite frustrating. I hope you can assist me in understanding what I’m experiencing so I can communicate the details effectively when I finally meet with my specialist.
Answers (1)
3/28/2025, 7:00:45 AM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you're experiencing complex visual phenomena, including palinopsia and afterimages, which can be concerning. Given your medical history, particularly with conditions like diabetes and atrial fibrillation, it's understandable to feel anxious while waiting for specialist care.
Understanding Your Symptoms
Palinopsia refers to the persistent recurrence of a visual image after its initial stimulus has ended. The afterimages you're describing—seeing outlines or shadows of objects after shifting your gaze—can occur for several reasons, including:
- Retinal or neurological issues: Changes in how your brain processes visual information can lead to these phenomena.
- Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA): This can affect cognitive functions and visual processing, potentially explaining some of your experiences.
- Medication effects: Some medications can also impact vision.
Next Steps to Consider
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Document Your Symptoms: Keep a detailed record of your visual experiences, noting when they occur, their duration, and any triggering activities. Include specifics about how long the afterimages last and under what conditions they are most intense. This will be valuable information for your specialist.
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Continue Using CPAP: Since using the Auto CPAP seems to have helped reduce visual snow, maintain this treatment as it improves your OSA and possibly supports overall brain function.
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Focus on Eye Health: While waiting for your eye specialist appointment, it's crucial to protect your eyes. Ensure your blood sugar levels are well-managed to prevent any further complications related to your diabetes.
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Communicate Clearly: Prepare a concise summary of your medical history, current medications, and all visual phenomena for your appointment. Consider bringing a family member or friend who can help you describe your experiences if needed.
During Your Appointment
- Start by discussing your experience of palinopsia and afterimages, explaining how they have occurred over time.
- Mention how your symptoms have changed with CPAP usage and any connection you've found with your sleep apnea.
- Express your need for a thorough evaluation to rule out any serious underlying conditions, particularly due to your other medical issues.
It's perfectly reasonable to seek clarity on your symptoms, and being prepared for your appointment can help ensure that your concerns are addressed more thoroughly. Let me know if you need further assistance or specific questions to ask your specialist!
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