What does it mean if there's a small black dot on the eyeball?

Generally, a small black spot on the eyeball may be caused by factors such as eye strain, conjunctival nevus, high myopia, glaucoma, or cataracts. If discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly. Specific analyses are as follows:

1. Eye strain

Prolonged use of the eyes, especially staring at electronic screens, may lead to eye fatigue and affect ocular blood circulation, potentially causing pigment deposition within the eye and forming a small black spot. It is important to rest adequately, avoid prolonged eye use, and perform appropriate eye massages and warm compresses.

2. Conjunctival nevus

A conjunctival nevus is a benign lesion on the conjunctiva of the eye, typically formed by the clustering of pigment cells on the conjunctiva, appearing as a small black spot on the eyeball. Usually, no special treatment is required. However, if the spot gradually enlarges or affects appearance, surgical removal may be considered.

3. High myopia

High myopia is generally caused by genetic factors or improper eye use. In patients with high myopia, clouding of the vitreous humor in the eye may lead to floating black spots. Symptoms may also include decreased vision and narrowed visual field. Patients can follow medical advice to use medications such as ammonia iodinated peptide eye drops, polyvinyl alcohol eye drops, or atropine sulfate ophthalmic gel.

4. Glaucoma

Glaucoma is an eye disease caused by abnormally elevated intraocular pressure. It damages optic nerve fibers, disrupts normal transmission of visual signals, and may result in small dark spots or blind spots in the visual field. Symptoms may include headache, eye pain, and vision loss. Under a doctor's guidance, patients may use medications such as carteolol hydrochloride eye drops, latanoprost eye drops, or acetazolamide tablets.

5. Cataracts

Cataracts are usually caused by aging, genetics, or local nutritional deficiencies. They reduce the transparency of the lens, scatter light entering the eye, impair visual clarity, and cause the aforementioned symptoms. Additional symptoms may include reduced color perception and poor night vision. Treatment should follow a doctor’s recommendations and may include medications such as reduced glutathione eye drops, phacolysin eye drops, or vitamin E soft capsules.

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