What Does it Mean When You See Halos Around Lights?

Have you ever noticed a glowing ring or halo around lights, especially at night? This phenomenon can be quite common and is often caused by various eye conditions. Halos around lights can be a sign of an underlying eye problem, and understanding the causes and potential treatments is important for maintaining good eye health.
 

Understanding the Causes of Halos Around Lights

Halos around lights are typically caused by the way light interacts with the structures of the eye. When light enters the eye, it bends or refracts as it passes through the cornea, lens, and other parts of the eye. If there is any irregularity or imperfection in the way light is refracted, it can result in the appearance of halos around light sources. Some of the common causes of halos around lights include:

• Refractive Errors: Conditions like nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia), and astigmatism can distort the way light enters the eye, leading to the appearance of halos.
• Cataracts: As the lens of the eye becomes cloudy due to cataracts, it can scatter light and cause halos around lights.
• Dry Eyes: Dry eye syndrome can cause the cornea to become irregular, which can lead to light distortion and halos.
• Corneal Swelling or Irregularities: Conditions that affect the cornea, such as keratoconus or corneal edema, can also result in halos around lights.
• Pupil Size: The size of your pupil can also play a role in the appearance of halos. Larger pupils, which are common in low-light conditions, can amplify the effect of light distortion.

Understanding the underlying cause of your halos is crucial for determining the appropriate treatment approach.
 

The Importance of Consulting an Optometrist for Halos Around Lights

If you are experiencing halos around lights, it is essential to consult an optometrist for a comprehensive eye examination. While halos can be a common occurrence, they can also be a symptom of an underlying eye condition that requires medical attention.
 

An optometrist can perform a thorough examination and diagnostic tests to determine the root cause of your halos, whether it's a refractive error, cataract, or another eye condition. Once the cause is identified, your eye doctor can recommend the most suitable treatment options to address the issue, such as prescription eyeglasses, contact lenses, or even surgical procedures in some cases.
 

Ignoring halos around lights can lead to more serious vision problems if the underlying condition is left untreated. Seeking professional help can help you maintain good eye health and prevent further complications. Your optometrist can provide personalized guidance on managing your eye condition.
 

Diagnostic Tests for Determining the Cause of Halos Around Lights

When you visit an optometrist for halos around lights, they will likely perform a series of diagnostic tests to determine the underlying cause. These tests may include:

• Visual Acuity Test: This test measures your ability to see clearly at various distances, which can help identify refractive errors.
• Slit Lamp Examination: The optometrist will use a specialized microscope to examine the front of your eye, including the cornea, iris, and lens, to identify any irregularities or abnormalities.
• Keratometry: This test measures the curvature of your cornea, which can help diagnose conditions like astigmatism or keratoconus.
• Pupil Dilation: Your eye doctor may dilate your pupils to get a better view of the internal structures of your eye, such as the lens and retina.
• Corneal Topography: This imaging technique creates a detailed map of the surface of your cornea, which can help identify any irregularities or distortions.
• Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT): This non-invasive imaging test provides high-resolution, cross-sectional images of the eye's structures, including the cornea and retina.
• Contrast Sensitivity Testing: This test measures your ability to perceive differences in contrast, which can be affected by conditions like cataracts or corneal irregularities.

The combination of these diagnostic tests will help your eye care provider determine the specific cause of your halos around lights and develop an appropriate treatment plan.
 

Book Your Comprehensive Eye Exam with Valley Vision Associates Today

Halos around lights can be a common and sometimes concerning visual disturbance, but understanding the underlying causes and seeking professional medical attention can help you address the issue effectively. By visiting an optometrist or ophthalmologist, you can identify the root cause of your halos, whether it's a refractive error, cataract, dry eye, or another eye condition, and receive the appropriate treatment.
 

If you've been experiencing halos around lights, schedule an appointment with Valley Vision Associates to get to the root of the issue and explore the best treatment options for your specific condition. Visit our office in Ellensburg, Washington, or call (509) 925-1000 to book an appointment today.