Halo Vision: Is It a Sign of Glaucoma? - Ophthalmology

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Halo vision, or the perception of halos around lights, is a common visual phenomenon that can occur for various reasons. In your case, you are experiencing halos and radiating light patterns when viewing streetlights and traffic signals at night. While it’s understandable to be concerned about conditions like glaucoma, it’s important to note that halos can be caused by several factors, and not all of them are related to serious eye diseases.

Firstly, halos around lights can often be attributed to refractive errors, such as myopia (nearsightedness), which you mentioned you have. High myopia can lead to changes in the eye's structure, including the cornea and lens, which can affect how light is focused and perceived. Additionally, dry eyes, which you also indicated as a potential issue, can exacerbate visual disturbances, including halos and glare. When the tear film is unstable or insufficient, it can lead to light scattering, resulting in visual phenomena like halos.

Regarding your concern about glaucoma, it is essential to understand that while halos can be a symptom of glaucoma, they are not exclusive to it. Glaucoma typically presents with other symptoms, such as peripheral vision loss, and is often associated with elevated intraocular pressure. Since your eye pressure readings were within normal limits (16/17 mmHg), and your eye examinations did not indicate any signs of glaucoma, it is less likely that your symptoms are related to this condition.

You mentioned undergoing a dilated eye exam (scatter test) to check for retinal issues. This type of examination allows the doctor to assess the retina and optic nerve, which are crucial in diagnosing glaucoma. The optic nerve head (the point where the optic nerve enters the eye) can show signs of damage in glaucoma, and a thorough examination can reveal any abnormalities. If your doctor did not find any signs of glaucoma during this examination, it is a reassuring indication that your symptoms may not be related to this condition.

However, it is essential to consider other potential causes of your symptoms. Conditions such as cataracts, corneal irregularities (like keratoconus), or even certain medications can lead to visual disturbances. Given that you have experienced retinal degeneration, it may also be worth discussing with your eye care provider whether this could be contributing to your visual symptoms.

To address your symptoms effectively, consider the following recommendations:
1. Artificial Tears: If dry eyes are contributing to your symptoms, using preservative-free artificial tears can help maintain moisture and improve visual clarity.

2. Regular Eye Exams: Continue to have regular check-ups with your eye care provider. If your symptoms persist or worsen, it may be beneficial to seek a second opinion or consult a specialist, such as a retinal specialist or a glaucoma specialist.

3. Lifestyle Adjustments: Ensure you are taking breaks from screens and reducing eye strain, especially in low-light conditions. Proper lighting when reading or working can also help reduce glare and halos.

4. Monitor Symptoms: Keep a log of when your symptoms occur, their severity, and any associated activities. This information can be valuable for your eye care provider in diagnosing and managing your condition.

In summary, while halo vision can be concerning, it is not exclusively indicative of glaucoma, especially given your recent eye examinations. It is crucial to maintain open communication with your eye care provider and follow their recommendations for managing your symptoms. If you have further concerns, do not hesitate to seek additional evaluations to ensure your eye health is being adequately monitored.