Rainbow Vision: Is It a Sign of Glaucoma?

Glaucoma with halos?

Hello Doctor: I previously underwent a fundus examination due to symptoms of eye strain and floaters.
The doctor mentioned it was likely natural degeneration, and my optic nerve appeared normal.
I was prescribed a bottle of artificial tears.
However, I recently noticed that when looking at bright LED streetlights, I see a white halo and a faint rainbow around them in both eyes.
In contrast, when I look at the lights in my home, regardless of their brightness, I only see a halo, but no rainbow effect.
The rainbow vision symptoms only occur with the LED streetlights.
Could this be a sign of glaucoma? Can dry eyes also cause rainbow vision symptoms?

A Quan, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/05/29

Dr. He Jianxian reply Ophthalmology

What you refer to as "rainbow vision" likely pertains to a dispersion phenomenon.
Dispersion typically occurs when the corneal hydration level increases.
The most commonly known condition associated with this phenomenon is acute glaucoma, which can cause such effects when viewing any light source.
However, since you only experience this with LED streetlights, it is definitely not the case here.
It may be related to an imbalance in your tear film.
Please continue to monitor your symptoms.
This is provided for your reference.
Dr.
He Jianxian, Ophthalmology Department, Nantou Hospital.

Reply Date: 2021/05/29

More Info

Rainbow vision, or the perception of colored halos around lights, can be a concerning symptom for many individuals, particularly those with pre-existing eye conditions such as high intraocular pressure or myopia. Your inquiry about whether this phenomenon is a sign of glaucoma is quite pertinent, especially given your history of eye discomfort and floaters.

First, it’s important to understand that rainbow vision can arise from various causes, and while it can be associated with glaucoma, it is not exclusively indicative of this condition. Glaucoma is characterized by damage to the optic nerve, often due to elevated intraocular pressure, and can lead to vision loss if left untreated. However, the presence of halos or rainbow vision is not a definitive sign of glaucoma on its own.

In your case, the observation of halos around bright LED streetlights, particularly in low-light conditions, could be attributed to several factors:
1. Corneal Issues: Conditions such as corneal edema or irregularities can cause light to scatter, leading to the perception of halos. If the cornea is swollen or has deposits, it can refract light in a way that produces colored rings.

2. Refractive Errors: As you mentioned having myopia and possibly astigmatism, these refractive errors can contribute to visual distortions. Astigmatism, in particular, can cause light to be focused unevenly, resulting in halos or glare around lights.

3. Dry Eyes: Dryness of the eyes can lead to visual disturbances, including halos. When the tear film is insufficient, it can affect how light is refracted through the eye, leading to symptoms like the ones you are experiencing. Artificial tears, as prescribed by your doctor, can help alleviate these symptoms by providing lubrication.

4. Lighting Conditions: The brightness and type of light source can also influence the perception of halos. LED lights, being particularly bright and often having a different spectral output compared to incandescent bulbs, may produce more pronounced halos, especially in individuals with sensitive eyes or underlying refractive errors.

5. Natural Aging: As you mentioned, some of your symptoms may be related to natural aging processes affecting the eye, such as changes in the lens or cornea. These changes can lead to increased sensitivity to light and the perception of halos.

Regarding your specific question about whether rainbow vision varies between day and night, it can indeed be more pronounced in low-light conditions. This is due to the dilation of the pupils in darkness, which allows more light to enter the eye and can exacerbate any underlying optical issues, making halos more noticeable.

In conclusion, while the presence of rainbow vision can be alarming, it does not automatically indicate glaucoma, especially if your intraocular pressure has been measured within normal limits. However, it is essential to continue monitoring your symptoms and maintain regular check-ups with your eye care professional. If you experience any changes in your vision, such as an increase in the frequency or intensity of halos, or if you notice any new symptoms, it would be prudent to seek further evaluation. Your eye health is paramount, and addressing any concerns early can help prevent potential complications.

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