Black Circles in Vision During Uveitis Treatment - Ophthalmology

More Info

---

The appearance of black circles in your vision during the treatment of uveitis, particularly acute and subacute iridocyclitis, can be concerning and warrants careful consideration. Based on your description, it seems that you are experiencing a phenomenon known as "scotoma," which is a partial loss of vision or a blind spot in an otherwise normal visual field. This can manifest as dark spots or circles, and in your case, it appears as a jagged-edged black circle that distorts your peripheral vision.

1. Is the black circle caused by the simultaneous use of two eye drops and the three medications prescribed by the hospital?
While it is understandable to suspect that the combination of medications might be responsible for the visual changes you are experiencing, it is unlikely that the eye drops (such as atropine and the other prescribed medication) or the oral medications (Nexium, Myfortic, and Compesolon) are directly causing the black circle. Atropine, a common medication used to dilate the pupil, can cause temporary visual disturbances, especially when the pupil is dilated. This dilation can lead to changes in how light enters the eye and may cause visual distortions, particularly in bright environments or when transitioning from dark to light settings. However, the jagged edges and the specific nature of your visual disturbance suggest that it may be more related to the underlying condition rather than the medications themselves.

2. Is the appearance of the black circle a normal phenomenon during treatment or a sign of worsening condition?
The emergence of a black circle in your vision is not considered a normal phenomenon during the treatment of uveitis. It may indicate a change in your condition that requires further evaluation. Uveitis can lead to complications such as retinal edema, vitreous hemorrhage, or even retinal detachment, all of which could manifest as visual disturbances. The jagged appearance of the circle and the distortion when moving your eye could suggest that there is some involvement of the retina or the optic nerve, which should be assessed by an eye care professional.

Given your history of ankylosing spondylitis, it is also important to consider that systemic inflammatory conditions can have ocular manifestations, and the inflammation may not be fully controlled despite treatment. Therefore, it is crucial to follow up with your ophthalmologist as soon as possible to determine the cause of these visual changes. They may recommend additional tests, such as optical coherence tomography (OCT) or fluorescein angiography, to evaluate the retina and the optic nerve more thoroughly.

In summary, while the medications you are taking are essential for managing your uveitis, the appearance of the black circle is not a typical side effect and should be investigated further. Prompt evaluation by your eye care provider is necessary to rule out any serious complications and to adjust your treatment plan if needed. Your vision is precious, and timely intervention can help preserve it.