Halo Vision: Causes and When to Seek Help - Ophthalmology

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Halo vision, or the perception of a halo or glare around lights, is a common visual phenomenon that many people experience, especially in low-light conditions. This effect can be particularly noticeable when looking at bright lights in dark environments, such as streetlights or headlights at night. Understanding the causes of halo vision and when to seek medical attention is essential for maintaining eye health.


Causes of Halo Vision
1. Refractive Errors: Conditions such as myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), and astigmatism can lead to halo vision. When light enters the eye, it may not focus correctly on the retina, causing blurred or distorted images, which can manifest as halos around lights.

2. Cataracts: The clouding of the eye's natural lens can scatter light as it enters the eye, leading to halos around lights. This is often accompanied by other symptoms such as blurred vision, difficulty seeing at night, and increased sensitivity to glare.

3. Corneal Issues: Conditions affecting the cornea, such as keratoconus or corneal scarring, can also cause light to scatter, resulting in halo vision.
4. Dry Eyes: Insufficient tear production can lead to dry eyes, which can cause discomfort and visual disturbances, including halos.

5. Post-Surgical Changes: After eye surgeries, such as LASIK or cataract surgery, some patients may experience halos as their eyes heal and adjust to the changes.

6. Glaucoma: Increased pressure in the eye can lead to changes in vision, including halos around lights, particularly in low-light situations.


When to Seek Help
While halo vision can be a benign and temporary condition, there are certain situations where it is advisable to seek medical attention:
- Sudden Onset: If you suddenly experience halos or other visual disturbances that were not present before, it is essential to consult an eye care professional. This could indicate a more serious underlying condition.

- Accompanying Symptoms: If halo vision is accompanied by other symptoms such as severe eye pain, headaches, nausea, or sudden changes in vision, you should seek immediate medical attention.

- Persistent Symptoms: If you notice that the halos persist or worsen over time, it is crucial to have a comprehensive eye examination to rule out any serious conditions.


Additional Considerations
In your case, you mentioned experiencing halos when looking at lights in dark environments and feeling a sensation of pressure between your eyebrows. This could be related to several factors, including sinus issues or eye strain. The pressure you feel might be due to tension in the muscles around your eyes or sinuses, which can be exacerbated by prolonged screen time or other visual tasks.

Given your refractive errors (myopia and astigmatism), it is important to ensure that your prescription glasses or contact lenses are up to date. Wearing the correct prescription can help reduce visual disturbances, including halos.

If you are experiencing eye discomfort, such as dryness or strain, consider implementing the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break to look at something 20 feet away. This can help alleviate eye strain and improve comfort.


Conclusion
Halo vision can be a normal phenomenon, especially in low-light conditions, but it is essential to monitor your symptoms and seek professional advice if you notice any significant changes or if the halos are accompanied by other concerning symptoms. Regular eye examinations are crucial for maintaining eye health, especially if you have existing refractive errors. If you have any further concerns, do not hesitate to reach out to your eye care provider for a thorough evaluation.