Is Stress Causing My Blurry Vision and Confusion?

Is it too much stress?

Hello, doctor.
I would like to ask about experiencing flashing lights in my eyes over the past week or two.
I have seen an ophthalmologist, and the tests showed no abnormalities.
However, in the last couple of days, I have been feeling very confused and unable to concentrate.
I'm wondering if this could be caused by stress.
Could you please clarify this for me? Thank you.

Xiao Wu, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/09/14

Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology

Dear Ms.
Xiao Wu,
You mentioned that your eyes are "twinkling." I wonder if you are also experiencing headaches? Symptoms of migraine with aura can include visual disturbances.
These may manifest as bright lights resembling stars or lightning, as well as blurred or distorted vision, which are all precursors to a migraine.
A few minutes after the aura appears, you may experience tingling, weakness, or numbness in your face, hands, or legs.
During the attack, symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, sensitivity to light and sound, and pallor may accompany the headache.
Once the aura subsides, you may experience severe, throbbing pain on one side of your head.
These migraine symptoms can typically last for several hours, and in some cases, up to 2-3 days.

Thank you for your inquiry, and feel free to discuss any related questions! Wishing you good health and peace.
Dr.
Jiang Junyi, Taoyuan Medical Center

Reply Date: 2021/09/14

More Info

Stress can indeed have a significant impact on your vision and cognitive function. Based on your description of experiencing intermittent flashes in your vision and feelings of confusion or difficulty concentrating, it is plausible that stress is playing a role in these symptoms.
When we are under stress, our body goes into a "fight or flight" mode, which can lead to various physiological changes. For instance, stress can cause muscle tension, including in the muscles around the eyes, leading to discomfort and visual disturbances. This tension can also contribute to headaches, which may further complicate your ability to focus and concentrate.
Additionally, stress can exacerbate pre-existing conditions, such as anxiety or eye strain, particularly if you spend long hours in front of screens. The phenomenon of "computer vision syndrome" is common among individuals who use digital devices for extended periods. Symptoms can include blurred vision, dry eyes, and headaches, which may be intensified by stress.
Your experience of seeing flashes of light could be related to several factors. While it is good that your eye examinations have not revealed any significant issues, it is essential to monitor these symptoms. Flashes of light can sometimes indicate retinal issues, but they can also be benign and related to stress or fatigue.
The confusion and difficulty concentrating you mentioned could also be linked to stress. High levels of stress can affect cognitive functions, leading to feelings of mental fog or confusion. This is often due to the body's response to stress, which can divert resources away from higher cognitive functions to deal with perceived threats.
To address these symptoms, consider implementing stress management techniques. Regular physical activity, mindfulness practices such as meditation or yoga, and ensuring you have adequate rest can help mitigate stress levels. Additionally, taking regular breaks from screens and practicing good eye hygiene—such as the 20-20-20 rule (every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds)—can help reduce eye strain.

If your symptoms persist or worsen, it would be advisable to consult with a healthcare professional. They can provide a comprehensive evaluation and may refer you to a mental health specialist if stress or anxiety is significantly impacting your daily life.
In summary, while your eye examinations have not indicated any serious issues, the symptoms you are experiencing could indeed be linked to stress. Managing your stress levels and taking care of your eye health are crucial steps in addressing these concerns.

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