Blurry Vision While Pregnant

Blurry Vision While Pregnant | Hormone changes that occur during pregnancy can cause blurry vision. Having blurry vision can be worrisome, but it’s rarely permanent. Most people’s vision returns to normal in the weeks following delivery. But it’s important to see your healthcare provider to determine whether blurriness may be due to gestational diabetes or preeclampsia.

What is blurry vision during pregnancy?

Blurry vision during pregnancy refers to a temporary alteration in your visual acuity, stemming from the influence of hormonal changes on your eyes. The modifications to your vision may be unexpected and raise concerns. However, it’s important to note that blurry vision is typically not indicative of a lasting eye problem.

What does blurry vision during pregnancy signify?

In instances of blurry vision, objects may lack the usual sharpness and clarity. Instead, they might appear hazy, resembling an attempt to view through fog. Additionally, some pregnant individuals may experience redness and irritation in their eyes.

Blurred vision can manifest in various ways:

Regardless of whether corrective lenses are worn.
In either one or both eyes.
In specific portions of your visual field.

When does blurry vision occur during pregnancy?

Due to the commencement of hormonal changes in the early stages of pregnancy, some individuals may observe vision disturbances early on. However, blurry vision can arise at any point during pregnancy.

Will my vision revert to its usual state?

For the majority of people encountering blurry vision during pregnancy, their vision usually returns to normal in the weeks following childbirth.

POSSIBLE CAUSES

What triggers blurry vision during pregnancy?

Hormones that facilitate the growth of your developing baby can lead to fluid retention, resulting in changes within your eyes that may lead to blurry vision.

These changes encompass:

Alterations in the shape or thickness of your corneas.
Reduced production of tears, affecting visual quality.
Elevated pressure within your eyes (intraocular pressure).

Can blurry vision indicate complications in pregnancy?

Blurry vision might be an indicator of:

Gestational diabetes: Abnormal elevation of blood sugar levels during pregnancy among individuals without a history of diabetes.
Preeclampsia: Elevated blood pressure and presence of protein in urine during pregnancy.
Both conditions can pose risks to both you and your baby. Gestational diabetes and preeclampsia could also influence your vision and, in severe cases, lead to blindness. If you are at risk of or have these conditions, it’s crucial to monitor changes in your vision.

If you experience the following, reach out to an optometrist:

Diminished vision.
Double vision (diplopia).
Eye floaters or flashes.
Partial vision loss or blind spots.
Sensitivity to light.

Can pregnancy exacerbate preexisting eye conditions?

Blurred vision may serve as an indicator of preexisting eye-related conditions that could worsen during pregnancy.

These conditions encompass:

Diabetic retinopathy.
Graves’ disease.
Idiopathic intracranial hypertension.
Multiple sclerosis (MS).
Tumors like pituitary adenomas.
Uveitis.

CARE AND TREATMENT

Are there remedies for blurry vision during pregnancy?

Limited treatment options are available for blurry vision during pregnancy. To alleviate redness and discomfort in the eyes, lubricating drops can provide relief. In most scenarios, it’s advisable to await the improvement of eyesight postpartum.

How can I manage double vision during pregnancy?

To mitigate eye strain and safeguard your vision, consider the following measures:

Avoiding contact lenses, as they might not properly fit your corneas.
Limiting screen time, including laptops, phones, and devices emitting blue light.
Ensuring adequate illumination while reading or performing tasks requiring focus on small objects.
Engaging in eye exercises to bolster muscles enhancing focus.
Taking breaks and naps to rest your eyes throughout the day.
Using sunglasses if your eyes are sensitive to light.

What is blurry vision like in the context of preeclampsia?

Preeclampsia necessitates specialized care to safeguard your health, your baby’s well-being, and your vision.

Treatment might encompass:

Bed rest.
Blood pressure medications safe for pregnancy.
Regular eye examinations during each trimester of pregnancy and annually postpartum to monitor potential complications.
In cases of severe preeclampsia, your healthcare provider might recommend inducing labor for childbirth.

What treatments are required for blurry vision attributed to gestational diabetes?

In addition to prioritizing eye health, managing blood sugar levels entails:

Avoiding processed foods, high-fat meals, and sugary beverages.
Maintaining a balanced diet with appropriate protein, fat, and carbohydrate content.
Engaging in physical activity to enhance glucose utilization.
Your provider might prescribe insulin injections to effectively manage blood sugar levels.

Why does my vision remain blurry after pregnancy?

In exceptional instances, vision may continue to be blurry even after pregnancy. For some individuals, the effects of pregnancy hormones may take longer—up to nine months—to revert to normal.

If blurry vision persists beyond nine months or interferes with daily activities, consider visiting an optometrist. It might be necessary to update your corrective lens prescription.

WHEN TO SEEK MEDICAL ATTENTION

When should I reach out to my healthcare provider about blurry vision during pregnancy?

Contact your healthcare provider as soon as you notice changes in your vision. While you may believe you can manage blurry vision independently, it’s crucial to ascertain whether it signifies preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, or another medical condition.

Blurry Vision While Pregnant