Visual Disturbances: Rainbow Halos and Light Trails

Q: Visual Disturbances: Rainbow Halos and Light Trails

Hello, Chao Da： The previous corneal perforation may have caused scarring on the cornea, which could explain the current phenomenon. <br>As for the double vision, it may be due to irregular astigmatism caused by the scarring. <br>However, without a personal examination, I cannot

Extending the light rays?

A month ago, I noticed that when I looked at bright lights, I saw a halo resembling a rainbow around them.
I visited a nearby ophthalmologist, who examined my eyes and suggested that this might be caused by a few small holes in my cornea.
I was prescribed eye drops, which I used for several weeks.
During this time, I felt that my vision was getting worse, but I attributed it to the eye drops and didn't think much of it.
However, my vision remains unclear when looking at lights.
After a few weeks of using the eye drops, the rainbow halos appeared less frequently, but they still occur occasionally when I look at bright lights.
My vision has not returned to normal.
I had just changed my lenses before seeing the doctor, and now, in addition to seeing halos around streetlights or car headlights, I also notice several rays of light extending outward, especially when I blink.
Doctor, what could be causing this?

Qiao Da, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/08/26

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology

Hello, Chao Da: The previous corneal perforation may have caused scarring on the cornea, which could explain the current phenomenon.
As for the double vision, it may be due to irregular astigmatism caused by the scarring.
However, without a personal examination, I cannot confirm the cause and can only speculate.

Taiwan E-Hospital Puzi Hospital Ophthalmology: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM; Wednesday from 2:00 PM to 4:30 PM.
Online responses can only serve as a reference; if necessary, it is essential to seek medical attention at a healthcare facility.
I hope to have the opportunity to assist you.

Gao Pilin

Reply Date: 2020/08/26

More Info

The phenomenon you're experiencing, where you see rainbow halos or colored light trails around bright light sources such as streetlights or car headlights, can be attributed to several factors, both optical and physiological. This is not an uncommon occurrence, especially under specific conditions such as rain or when looking at bright lights at night.

Firstly, the appearance of rainbow halos around lights is often related to the scattering of light. When light passes through water droplets in the air, such as during rain, it can refract and scatter, creating a spectrum of colors similar to a rainbow. This is a normal optical phenomenon and is not indicative of any eye condition. However, if you are experiencing these halos consistently, especially in dry conditions, it may warrant further investigation.

In your case, you mentioned that an eye doctor previously diagnosed you with small holes in your cornea, which could potentially contribute to visual disturbances. The cornea is crucial for focusing light onto the retina, and any irregularities can lead to issues such as halos, glare, or blurred vision. The use of eye drops may have temporarily altered your vision, and it’s possible that your eyes are still adjusting.

You also noted that your vision seems to be deteriorating, which is concerning. While the eye drops may have contributed to temporary changes in your vision, persistent visual disturbances should not be ignored. The presence of light trails or streaks, especially when blinking, can indicate issues such as corneal irregularities, dry eye syndrome, or even more serious conditions like cataracts or glaucoma.

Given that you have a history of seeing halos and now experience additional symptoms like light trails and blurred vision, it would be prudent to seek a comprehensive eye examination. This should include a thorough assessment of your cornea, retina, and overall eye health. Tests such as visual acuity tests, slit-lamp examinations, and possibly a visual field test can provide valuable insights into your condition.

In summary, while seeing rainbow halos can be a normal optical effect, the combination of your symptoms—especially the deterioration in vision—suggests that further evaluation is necessary. It’s essential to communicate all your symptoms clearly to your eye care provider, as this will help them determine the best course of action. If you haven’t already, consider visiting a specialist or a larger medical facility where more advanced diagnostic tools are available. Your eye health is crucial, and addressing these concerns promptly can help prevent any potential complications.

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