If you’ve been experiencing dry, itchy, or irritated eyes, it may just be seasonal allergies. But if you’ve recently started taking a new medication or changed the dose on one you’ve been taking, it’s also possible that your medications are affecting your eyesight. Sometimes, it’s a medication you’ve been taking for a long time suddenly causing issues. Many types of medication can cause eye irritation, dryness, and other symptoms. While some are relatively minor, others can impact your vision more seriously.
Known Medical Interactions
There are some medications that we know cause vision problems. Those include certain anti-depressants, antihistamines, and diuretics. In addition, birth control pills and other hormone treatments can cause eye issues as well as complicate wearing contacts. If you’re unsure if your medication is causing the problem or need to find a way to treat the symptoms, make an appointment with Wilkinson Eye Center.
Irritation versus Complication
Some medications cause irritation, such as antihistamines, which can cause very dry eyes. This can be treated with a simple rewetting drop most of the time. Long-term use of antihistamines, however, may lead to chronic dry eye. Other medications can cause serious complications with your vision. Many of these medications will not cause problems with your eyesight until you’ve been taking them for a long time. These medications, mostly corticosteroids such as prednisone and betamethasone, can contribute to the development of cataracts and glaucoma.
Erectile Function Drugs and Eyesight
Another class of medication known to interfere with eyesight is erectile dysfunction (ED) medication. While some side effects are harmless, Viagra can cause you to see everything tinged in blue. In some
What to Do If You Think Your Medication Is Causing Problems with Your Eyesight
While there are several medications that cause problems with your vision, many of these medications are essential for treating other conditions. You should talk both with your medical doctor as well as make an appointment to see your eye doctor to determine the next steps. You may be able to find an alternative medication, or you may be able to treat the symptoms.
Interested in learning more about comprehensive vision exams? Give us a call at (248) 334-4931 to schedule your consultation today! Wilkinson Eye Center has locations in Pontiac & Clarkston and serves all nearby areas in Michigan.
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