DRUGS CAN AFFECT VISION AND YOUR EYES

MEDICATIONS THAT CAN AFFECT THE EYE

The human body consists of various tissues and organs which are closely interconnected and mutually dependent. Overall health or lack of health can play a significant role in the health of the eyes. Similarly, medication prescribed for certain health conditions can affect the eyes. Well targeted medications can be life-saving, and most of them are safe and do not have a major effect on the eyes, but some can have a negative effect on one's vision or eye health over time. It is important to inform your optometrist if you are taking medication for chronic medical conditions, as well as to be aware of the side effects these may have on the eyes. Catching these problems early can prevent permanent harmful effects.

Here is a list of common health issues which require medication which may cause problems with the eyes.

ACNE

Certain drugs used to treat severe acne can lead to sensations of grit in the eye, red or burning eyes, temporary distortion of vision, dry eye syndrome and night blindness. Others can make you more vulnerable to cataracts or macular degeneration.

ANTIBIOTICS

Some antibiotics can cause mild redness and itching of the eyes, and can lead to allergic conjunctivitis. Some increase sensitivity to light, and contribute to dry eye syndrome and risk of glaucoma, as well as cataracts and macular degeneration. Many people are allergic to “sulfa drugs”, and the manifestation in the eye could be blurred vision, light sensitivity and sometimes haemorrhages in the eyes. Overuse of antibiotics can disrupt the body’s natural chemistry and fluid balance within the eye.

Whenever taking antibiotics make sure you take probiotics and vitamin C to help avoid some of the side effects on the body.

ANTI-DIURETICS

Anti-diuretics can interfere with the fluid balance of the eyes contributing to glaucoma.

ANTIHISTAMINES

Antihistamines have a drying effect on the eyes in the same way that they have a drying effect on the nose. They can be a contributing cause of cataracts, increased light sensitivity and dry eye syndrome. Antihistamines can be harmful for people with certain types of glaucoma, resulting in blurred vision, redness, halos around lighted objects, and pain.

ANXIETY AND DEPRESSION

Tranquilizers can increase your sensitivity to light, making you more susceptible to cataracts and macular degeneration. Certain medications for anxiety and/or depression may cause the eyes to twitch, while others may lead to dilated pupils, double vision, blurred vision, and dry eyes. These side effects can usually be eliminated by discontinuing the medication.

ARTHRITIS

Medication routinely prescribed for rheumatoid arthritis can cause retinal damage. Corticosteroids are often used to treat arthritis (as well as other chronic conditions) and can increase the risk of glaucoma.

ASTHMA

Nasal steroids, commonly inhaled for asthma are connected to certain types of glaucoma.

BIRTH CONTROL

Oral contraceptives can lead to eye problems by increasing pressure of the fluid around the brain causing headaches, migraines and vision changes. They may contribute to increased light sensitivity, and risk of cataracts and macular degeneration. Contact lens wearers using birth control pills often experience dry eye syndrome.

BLOOD PRESSURE

Blood pressure medications cause the body to excrete excess fluid, which in the eyes means dry eyes, light sensitivity, and sometimes blurred or double vision. Prolonged use can contribute to damage to the retina.

DIABETES

Oral anti-diabetes drugs can make you more vulnerable to cataracts and macular degeneration.

GLAUCOMA

Long-term use of antiglaucoma drugs can affect macula sensitivity. Periodic macula evaluation is recommended for any patients who are taking antiglaucoma drugs.

HEART CONDITIONS

Some medications for heart conditions increase light sensitivity resulting in symptoms such as halos around objects and sensitivity to glare.

HIGH CHOLESTROL

Medication commonly prescribed for high cholesterol can lead to optic nerve damage and/or glaucoma, and an increased risk of developing cataracts.

HORMONE REPLACEMENT

Oestrogen hormone replacement may cause eye twitching.

INFLAMMATION

Most non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs can cause side effects that impact the eyes, including glaucoma, cataracts, dry eyes, and retinal haemorrhages that may result from long term use.

INSOMNIA

Some drugs prescribed for insomnia may cause eye twitching.

MALARIA

Anti-malarial drugs can cause changes in the cornea. Symptoms such as halos around lights, glare and light sensitivity may occur. There is no change in the person's visual acuity. Once the drugs are stopped symptoms disappear. Over time, the use of certain medications may lead to reduced colour vision, blind spots and blurred central vision. People on long-term malaria prophylactic treatment should be monitored regularly.

MUSCLE SPASMS

Gastric antispasmodics, prescribed to stop muscle spasms can lead to optic nerve damage and/or glaucoma, and some can cause the eyes to twitch.

PAIN RELIEF

Overuse of what are considered "harmless" drugs for pain relief can be damaging to the body and eyes. When drugs are used excessively, they can induce light sensitivity, dry eyes, corneal deposits, gastrointestinal tract damage, and even cataracts.

VITAMINS

Excessive use of vitamin A can increase the pressure of fluid around the brain, which in turn can cause swelling of the optic nerve, headache, and visual distortions.

WEIGHT LOSS

Appetite suppressants may lead to dilated pupils, difficulty focusing the eyes, and difficulty with convergence of the eyes when reading, as well as dry eye syndrome. Some weight loss medications can lead to glaucoma.

At your next visit to your optometrist, be sure to inform him or her about any medication you may be taking, and to ask if you may be at risk for side effects which may impact on your eye health. If you are on chronic medication, it is advisable to have regular eye examinations.