Halos Around Lights: Causes and When to See a Doctor - Ophthalmology

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Experiencing halos around lights, especially at night, can be concerning and may indicate various underlying issues. The phenomenon you describe, where you see rainbow-like halos around bright lights such as streetlights and car headlights, is known as "halos" or "glare." This can occur for several reasons, and understanding these causes is essential for determining whether you need to see a doctor.


Possible Causes of Halos
1. Refractive Errors: Conditions such as myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), or astigmatism can cause light to scatter as it enters the eye, leading to halos around lights. If you have uncorrected refractive errors, wearing the appropriate prescription glasses or contact lenses may help reduce these symptoms.

2. Dry Eyes: You mentioned that your eyes tend to be dry and often tear up. Dry eyes can lead to visual disturbances, including halos. When the tear film on the surface of the eye is unstable, it can cause light to scatter, resulting in halos. Using artificial tears or other treatments for dry eyes may alleviate this issue.

3. Cataracts: Cataracts, which are clouding of the eye's natural lens, can also cause halos around lights. This is due to the scattering of light as it passes through the cloudy lens. If you are experiencing other symptoms such as blurred vision or difficulty seeing at night, it may be worth discussing cataracts with your eye doctor.

4. Glaucoma: While you mentioned that you are concerned about glaucoma, it is essential to note that halos can be a symptom of acute angle-closure glaucoma, which is a medical emergency. This type of glaucoma can cause sudden eye pain, headache, nausea, and vomiting, along with halos. However, if your intraocular pressure was measured and found to be normal, the likelihood of having glaucoma is reduced, but it does not completely rule it out.

5. Corneal Issues: Conditions affecting the cornea, such as corneal edema or irregularities, can also lead to halos. If the cornea is swollen or has an irregular shape, it can scatter light and create visual disturbances.

6. Visual Migraines: Some individuals experience visual disturbances, including halos, as part of a migraine aura. This can occur even without a headache. If you have a history of migraines, this could be a potential cause.


When to See a Doctor
Given your symptoms, it is advisable to consult an eye care professional, especially if:
- The halos are persistent or worsening.

- You experience additional symptoms such as eye pain, significant changes in vision, or headaches.

- You have a history of eye conditions or other health issues that could affect your vision.

During your visit, the eye doctor may perform a comprehensive eye examination, including checking your intraocular pressure, assessing your visual acuity, and examining the health of your cornea and lens. They may also conduct tests to rule out conditions like glaucoma or cataracts.


Conclusion
In summary, while halos around lights can be benign and related to refractive errors or dry eyes, they can also indicate more serious conditions like cataracts or glaucoma. Given your concerns and the symptoms you are experiencing, it is prudent to seek medical advice. Early detection and treatment of any underlying issues can help preserve your vision and overall eye health.