Halos: Causes and Concerns Beyond Glaucoma - Ophthalmology

More Info

---

Halos, or rainbow-like circles that appear around lights, can be a concerning visual phenomenon for many individuals, particularly those with pre-existing eye conditions such as high myopia. While halos are often associated with conditions like glaucoma, they can arise from various other factors as well.
To address your question about glaucoma specifically: halos can indeed be a symptom of glaucoma, particularly when intraocular pressure (IOP) is elevated. In cases of acute angle-closure glaucoma, patients may experience sudden onset halos along with severe eye pain, headache, nausea, and vomiting. This is due to the rapid increase in eye pressure, which can cause the cornea to swell, leading to visual distortions, including halos. However, it is essential to note that halos can occur even when IOP is within the normal range, especially in individuals with high myopia or other refractive errors.
In your case, since you have experienced halos for the past two years without any significant changes in IOP or visual field abnormalities, it suggests that your halos may not be directly related to glaucoma. Instead, they could be attributed to other factors such as:
1. Corneal Issues: Conditions like corneal edema, where the cornea becomes swollen, can lead to visual distortions, including halos. This can occur due to various reasons, including dry eyes, contact lens wear, or corneal dystrophies.

2. Cataracts: The development of cataracts can also cause halos around lights. As the lens of the eye becomes cloudy, it scatters light, leading to visual disturbances, particularly in low-light conditions.

3. Vitreous Changes: In individuals with high myopia, changes in the vitreous gel, such as liquefaction or posterior vitreous detachment, can lead to visual phenomena like halos and floaters. These changes can be more pronounced in low-light conditions.

4. Refractive Errors: Uncorrected or improperly corrected refractive errors can also lead to halos. If your prescription is not up to date, or if you have astigmatism, this could contribute to the visual disturbances you are experiencing.

5. Dry Eyes: As mentioned in previous responses, dry eyes can lead to a range of visual symptoms, including halos. If your eyes are not adequately lubricated, this can affect how light is refracted through the tear film, resulting in halos.

6. Medications: Certain medications, particularly those that affect the eyes or the nervous system, can lead to visual side effects, including halos.

Given your history and the persistence of the halos, it would be prudent to follow up with an eye care professional for a comprehensive examination. They may consider additional tests, such as corneal topography or a thorough assessment of the lens and vitreous, to determine the underlying cause of your symptoms.

In conclusion, while halos can be associated with glaucoma, they can also arise from a variety of other ocular conditions. Regular eye examinations are crucial, especially for individuals with high myopia, to monitor for any changes that may affect visual health. If you experience any sudden changes in your vision or additional symptoms, seeking immediate medical attention is advisable.