Understanding Halos Around Bright Lights: A Guide for People with Myopia

Do you notice halos around bright lights when wearing your glasses? It is a common issue, but it can also hint at underlying eye conditions. In this article, we will explore what causes these halos, how to address them, and the importance of regular eye check-ups. While experiencing halos can be concerning, especially for those with myopia, it is important to understand the underlying reasons and proper steps to take.

Understanding Halos and Myopia

Halos around bright lights are often associated with myopia, or nearsightedness, but they can also occur in individuals with farsightedness. Halos are circular, colorful lights that appear around bright lights and can vary in intensity. They are caused by light bending irregularly due to an issue with the eye's focusing mechanism. Common causes include astigmatism, corneal irregularities, or lens irregularities.

Causes of Halos

Halos are not usually a cause for concern, especially if you have no eye pain or other symptoms. However, they can point to certain eye conditions, such as astigmatism. Astigmatism occurs when the cornea or lens has an irregular curvature. This can cause light to spread unevenly on the retina, leading to halos. Common causes of halos include:

Wearing Eyeglasses or Contact Lenses: Even with appropriate prescription glasses or contacts, halos can occur due to the lens' curvature or the fit of the lenses. Cataract or LASIK Surgery: Halos can also appear as a side effect of certain eye surgeries, such as LASIK, or as a result of cataract development.

Halos in and of themselves are not necessarily a sign of a serious eye condition. However, if you notice halos, it is important to address the underlying issue to ensure your eyes stay healthy and you can continue to see clearly.

Addressing the Issue

It is important to establish whether your halos are due to wearing your glasses or if they persist when your glasses are off. Here’s what to do:

Wearing Glasses: If halos disappear when you remove your glasses, it is likely a fitting or prescription issue. Visit your optometrist to have your glasses checked or your prescription updated. When Glasses are Off: If halos remain when you take your glasses off, it is a sign that your eyes need medical attention. Schedule an appointment with an ophthalmologist to rule out any serious eye conditions.

In either case, regular eye check-ups are crucial to maintaining good vision and overall eye health.

Conclusion

Halos around bright lights can be a normal and harmless occurrence, especially for people with myopia. However, they can also indicate underlying eye conditions such as astigmatism. By understanding the causes and taking appropriate steps, you can address any issues and continue to enjoy clear vision. Regular eye check-ups with an optometrist or ophthalmologist are essential to ensure your eyes are healthy and functioning properly.