TL;DR
Whether you’re reading, driving, or just going about your day, dark spots can suddenly appear and make you question what’s going on with your eyes.
It’s a symptom many people experience, and understanding the potential causes behind it is essential.
This article will guide you through the most common causes of dark spots in central vision and provide you with practical advice on how to manage this condition.
What are dark spots in central vision?
Dark spots in your central vision often appear as shadows, blurred patches, or greyed-out areas. They can range from being mild and barely noticeable to severely impairing your ability to see clearly.
These spots can affect one or both eyes, depending on the underlying cause. Because your central vision is responsible for tasks such as reading, driving, and recognising faces, any disruption can have a significant impact on your daily life.
Common causes of dark spots in central vision
Understanding the potential reasons for these dark spots can help you take the right steps toward treatment. Here are some of the most frequent causes:
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD)
AMD is one of the most common causes of central vision loss, particularly in people over 50.
The macula, which is the part of the retina responsible for sharp central vision, begins to deteriorate, leading to dark spots or blind spots. AMD can be classified into two types:
- Dry AMD: The most common form, where the macula thins over time.
- Wet AMD: A more severe form caused by abnormal blood vessels growing under the retina, leading to leakage and scarring.
If you’re experiencing dark spots in your central vision and are over 50, it’s worth speaking to an eye specialist about AMD.
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Diabetic retinopathy
If you have diabetes, diabetic retinopathy might be the cause of those dark spots. High blood sugar levels can damage the tiny blood vessels in your retina, leading to swelling, bleeding, or scarring.
These complications can result in dark patches, especially in the central vision. Regular eye check-ups are crucial for anyone with diabetes to catch retinopathy early and prevent further damage.
Macular hole
A macular hole is a small break in the macula, often resulting from age-related changes in the vitreous (the gel that fills your eye). This can cause blurry or distorted central vision and may appear as a dark spot.
Although it sounds alarming, macular holes can often be treated with surgery, which can improve or restore vision in many cases.
Retinal vein occlusion
Retinal vein occlusion occurs when one of the veins in the retina becomes blocked, often due to high blood pressure or atherosclerosis.
This blockage can lead to swelling, bleeding, or leakage of fluid, which can cause dark spots in the central vision.
The severity of the condition depends on how much of the vein is blocked and how quickly treatment is sought.
Central serous retinopathy
Stress, corticosteroid use, and certain lifestyle factors have been linked to central serous retinopathy, where fluid builds up under the retina and causes a small detachment.
This can lead to blurred or darkened central vision. While it often resolves on its own, chronic or severe cases may require medical intervention.
Less common causes of dark spots in central vision
While the conditions above are the most frequent causes of dark spots in central vision, there are other potential reasons, albeit less common, that could be affecting your eyesight.
Optic neuropathy
Damage to the optic nerve, responsible for transmitting visual information from your eyes to your brain, can cause dark spots in your vision.
Optic neuropathy can result from conditions like multiple sclerosis, trauma, or even certain medications.
Ocular migraines
Ocular migraines are another possibility if you experience temporary dark spots or vision loss. These migraines cause visual disturbances, often including dark spots, followed by a headache.
The good news is that ocular migraines are usually temporary and harmless, though they can be disruptive.
Cataracts
Though cataracts typically cause a more general clouding of vision, in some cases, they can result in dark or blurred spots, particularly when light passes through a dense area of the lens. Cataracts are highly treatable with surgery, which can restore clear vision.
Seeking treatment for dark spots in your vision
If you’re experiencing dark spots in your central vision, it’s crucial to seek professional advice. Ignoring the issue could lead to worsening symptoms or even permanent vision loss, depending on the cause.
Regular eye exams
Routine eye check-ups can detect many of the conditions that lead to dark spots early on. Your optometrist or ophthalmologist can assess your retina, macula, and optic nerve health, helping to identify any signs of damage.
Managing underlying health conditions
If an underlying condition such as diabetes or high blood pressure is contributing to your vision issues, managing these health concerns can be key to preventing further vision damage.
Work closely with your healthcare provider to control blood sugar levels, blood pressure, and other risk factors.
Eye treatments and surgery
For some causes, such as AMD, diabetic retinopathy, or macular holes, medical treatments, including injections, laser therapy, or surgery, may be required. These interventions can help stop or slow down vision loss and, in some cases, restore vision.
Practical steps to take when experiencing dark spots in vision
While medical intervention is essential for many causes of dark spots, there are practical steps you can take to protect your vision and minimise further damage:
- Quit smoking: Smoking increases your risk of developing several eye conditions that can lead to vision loss, including AMD.
- Maintain a healthy lifestyle: Eating a diet rich in leafy greens, fish, and antioxidant-rich foods can help support eye health.
- Wear UV-protective sunglasses: Protecting your eyes from harmful UV rays can reduce the risk of conditions like cataracts and AMD.
Final notes
Dark spots in your central vision can be a sign of various underlying eye conditions, ranging from age-related macular degeneration to diabetic retinopathy or even optic nerve damage.
Early detection and intervention are crucial in preventing further vision loss, so it’s essential to have regular eye exams and manage any related health conditions.
By seeking professional help and making lifestyle changes, you can protect your vision and maintain your quality of life.
