CAUSES OF PREGNANCY RELATED BLURRY VISION

Research has shown that women’s bodies can experience some ups and downs in terms of normal function and structure- due to the changing levels of hormones like estrogen and progesterone. These can lead to weight fluctuations, mood changes, and even shifts in appetite. Interestingly, vision can also be affected during this time, referred to as a vision swing. If you are pregnant or know someone pregnant and notice unexpected changes in vision such as blurry vision, it is understandable to wonder what might be causing blurry vision during this special time. Let us find out, shall we?

WHAT CAUSES BLURRY VISION DURING PREGNANCY?

There are several reasons why pregnant women may experience blurry vision. Some of the possible causes include:

• Hormonal changes: The hormonal fluctuations during pregnancy can cause changes in the shape of the cornea, leading to alterations in the curvature or density of the cornea and, therefore, causing blurred vision.
• Fluid retention: Pregnancy can cause fluid retention. The fluids result from the fetus growing within, which may result in swellings in the eyes and blurry vision.
• Increased blood volume: Pregnancy increases blood volume, which can make the eyes more sensitive and lead to blurry vision.
• Changes in blood sugar levels: Pregnancy can cause changes in blood sugar levels, which can affect the eyes and lead to blurry vision.
• Pressure on the optic nerve: The growing uterus can apply pressure on the optic nerve, leading to blurry vision.
• Reduced tears production, affecting the clarity of your vision.
• Elevated pressure within the eye (intraocular pressure or IOP).

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF BLURRY VISION DURING PREGNANCY?

The symptoms of blurry vision during pregnancy can vary from woman to woman. Some common symptoms include:

• Blurry vision: Difficulty seeing objects clearly, especially at a distance
• Double vision: Seeing two images of the same object
• Flashing lights: Seeing flashes of light or zigzag patterns
• Floaters: Seeing small, dark spots floating in the visual field
• Changes in contact lens fit: Pregnancy can cause changes in the shape of the cornea, leading to changes in contact lens fit

In our next post, we will extensively discuss pregnancy-related blurry vision management.

We look forward to your visit to TREETOP VISION EYE CENTRE (TREVEC), the best eye clinic in Utako-Abuja, for a routine eye check.

TREVEC CARES!!!