Due to fluid retention, increased blood volume, hormonal changes, and other physiologic changes associated with pregnancy, eyes may vary slightly throughout pregnancy. These alterations typically disappear once the baby is born or after weaning a breastfed child. Minor changes in vision typically do not necessitate a new prescription for glasses. Hence, a woman should not get LASIK surgery if she is breastfeeding or pregnant.
Hormonal changes may cause a disease called dry eye. Consult your ophthalmologist for more information on safe pregnancy-friendly treatments, such as lubricating drops. When dry eye is present, wearing contact lenses may not be as comfortable. Omega-3 fatty acid (DHA and EFA)-rich foods, such as salmon, flax seeds, and walnuts, may help treat dry eye while also promoting general health.
When vision becomes extremely blurry, it could be a sign of diabetes brought on by pregnancy or high blood pressure. Get in touch with your doctor right away.
Although expectant mothers are aware that their bodies would change significantly during pregnancy, they might be startled to learn that their eyes and vision also alter.
A woman’s body retains water and her blood volume rises during pregnancy. Her blood pressure changes along with her hormone levels. Eye and vision issues may result from any of these changes. For instance, vision may occasionally get just a little fuzzy. The eyes could get drier or itchier.
Additionally, fluid retention that results in swollen ankles might alter the shape of the cornea, which will impact how well contacts or glasses will correct eyesight. When their vision changes, a lot of pregnant women discover that they are slightly more nearsighted than previously.
The majority of these visual changes are transient, but a few could indicate a medical issue that has to be addressed right once for the health of mom and baby. particular concern is pregnancy-related high blood pressure, called preeclampsia. Blurred vision, double vision, temporary vision loss, seeing new floaters (lines, dots, specks) in your field of vision, seeing flashing lights, and light sensitivity are all warning signs of this severe health condition.
Any of these pregnancy-related visual issues should be discussed with your doctor as soon as possible.
Here are some recommendations for expecting women to maintain good eye health.
Before taking over-the-counter dry eye remedies for relief, consult your doctor. Some might contain substances that are risky for unborn babies. Your eyes may feel less dry if you use contacts for shorter periods of time. Alternately, consider wearing glasses while pregnant. Also, remember to blink frequently, particularly when using a computer or smartphone.
Puffiness around the eyes might result from retaining water during pregnant. This can occasionally reduce your side or peripheral vision. Try using cold compresses (such a clean, wet washcloth with cold water) or a cool gel pack over your closed eyes to minimise the swelling. It could also be beneficial to wash your face with cold water. Drink plenty of water and cut back on your intake of sodium and caffeine to assist prevent water retention.
Be sure to inform your eye doctor that you are pregnant if you have an eye visit. He or she might decide not to use dilating eye drops or other testing in some circumstances.
Diabetic retinopathy is a disorder that might get worse during pregnancy. Diabetes can harm the retinal blood vessels in your eye at this point.
During pregnancy, make sure to have your eyes checked more frequently so that any changes can be quickly identified and treated to preserve your vision.
Your eye pressure may change throughout pregnancy, sometimes for the better. Your kid may be exposed to less medication if you are able to reduce the dosage of your glaucoma medication. With your ophthalmologist, discuss this potential outcome. (Never alter your medication’s dosage without first consulting your doctor.)
At The Eye Center- Dr. Mahnaz Naveed Shah & Associates our team of eight ophthalmology subspecialists/ eye specialists, eye surgeons who are considered amongst the very best eye specialists in Karachi and in Pakistan, have the diagnostic and treatment capabilities to treat from the simplest to the most complex patients. We work hard to provide our patients with the best possible medical and surgical eye care, in a state of the art purpose built eye care facility. We offer the entire array of medical, laser and surgical treatments to help provide patients the best possible care in the most efficient, safe and ethical manner.
If you need an appointment, please contact us at 03041119544 during our working hours or leave us a WhatsApp message at +923028291799 and someone will connect with you. Walk-in appointments are also available for emergencies. We can also be reached through our web portal on www.surgicaleyecenter.org
