Will My Vision Improve After Stopping Steroid Eye Drops? - Ophthalmology

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Blurred vision


Hello, I have ankylosing spondylitis and recently developed iritis.
I started using steroid eye drops (Betamethasone 0.1%) and dilating drops on October 7, and continued until October 25.
The redness and pain have subsided, but I noticed that my vision is somewhat blurry.
Will my vision recover after stopping the medication? Thank you.

Ivy, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/10/25

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology


Hello Ivy: The effects of mydriasis may impact vision, but after discontinuing the medication, vision should return to normal if there are no other issues.
In Taiwan, the ophthalmology department at Puzi Hospital is open on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday mornings from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM, and on Wednesday afternoons from 2:00 PM to 4:30 PM.
Online responses should only be used as a reference; it is still necessary to seek medical attention at a healthcare facility if needed.
I hope to have the opportunity to serve you.
Gao Pi-Lin

Reply Date: 2020/10/25

More Info


When it comes to the use of steroid eye drops, such as Betamethasone (倍特明), for conditions like iritis (虹彩炎), it is important to understand both the therapeutic effects and potential side effects associated with their use. In your case, you have been using these drops to manage inflammation related to your ankylosing spondylitis and subsequent iritis. While these medications are effective in reducing inflammation and alleviating symptoms, they can also lead to temporary changes in vision.

The blurriness you are experiencing after discontinuing the steroid eye drops could be attributed to several factors. First, the use of dilating drops (散瞳) can cause temporary visual disturbances, including blurred vision. These drops are used to widen the pupil for examination purposes and can affect your ability to focus, especially on near objects. Once the effects of these drops wear off, your vision should gradually return to normal.

Additionally, if the inflammation has resolved, it is possible that your vision may improve as the eye heals. Steroid eye drops can sometimes lead to increased intraocular pressure or other side effects, which may also contribute to visual changes. If your vision does not improve after stopping the medication, it is essential to follow up with your ophthalmologist. They can conduct a thorough examination to rule out any underlying issues that may be affecting your vision.

In many cases, once the steroid drops are discontinued and the eye has had time to recover, vision can return to baseline levels. However, this is contingent upon the absence of other complications, such as cataracts or persistent inflammation. If you notice that your vision does not improve or if you experience any new symptoms, such as pain or significant changes in vision, it is crucial to seek medical attention promptly.

It's also worth noting that while steroid eye drops are effective for managing inflammation, they should be used under close supervision due to the potential for side effects. If you have concerns about your vision or the effects of the medication, discussing these with your healthcare provider can provide clarity and reassurance.

In summary, it is likely that your vision will improve after stopping the steroid eye drops, especially if the underlying inflammation has resolved. However, if you continue to experience blurry vision or have any concerns, please consult your ophthalmologist for further evaluation and management. They can provide tailored advice based on your specific situation and medical history.

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