Advice Needed Regarding Vision Changes
Hello everyone, I've been experiencing some concerning alterations in my eyesight lately. Specifically, I've noticed a sensation of pressure above my eyes akin to a migraine, making it feel like I'm wearing someone else’s spectacles—my vision seems out of focus. When I attempt to concentrate on objects, I perceive dark spots in my peripheral vision, and at times, I can detect my pulse as I try to focus on something specific. I visited an optometrist yesterday, who examined my eyes and assured me that there wasn’t any pressure present, nor did he identify any retinal damage. I typically wear contact lenses, and we’ve decided to slightly reduce my prescription to determine if the current lenses are overly strong and causing my eyes to become strained. Last year, I was diagnosed with hyperthyroidism; however, my optometrist doesn’t suspect Thyroid Eye Disease (TED) since my eyes aren’t bulging. In addition to this, I have been managing high blood pressure. Before medication, my resting blood pressure was around 155/95, but with losartan and metoprolol, it has improved to the low 120s over 80s. Currently, I take 20mg of methimazole daily, 50mg of losartan in the morning, and 50mg of metoprolol in the evening. I'm reaching out to see if anyone else has faced similar symptoms and might offer advice on whom to consult or tests I should consider. I have been contemplating whether my vision has been accustomed to higher blood pressure for an extended period, and now that it’s lower, perhaps this is the clarity I should expect, even though it feels unusual to me. However, the heartbeat sensation and those dark spots are unsettling. For context, I am a 31-year-old male, and aside from being nearsighted and requiring corrective lenses, I’ve had no notable eye issues in the past. I appreciate any guidance you can provide. Thanks in advance!
Answers (1)
3/25/2025, 8:10:39 PM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you’re experiencing some complex symptoms with your vision and head pressure, particularly given your history of hyperthyroidism and managing high blood pressure. While your optometrist has already evaluated your eyes and found no significant issues, your symptoms, including dark spots in your peripheral vision and a pulsing sensation, warrant careful attention.
Key Points:
- Your Eye Examination: The optometrist found no retinal damage or pressure, which is reassuring. However, your symptoms are still concerning and may need further exploration.
- Potential Connections: The changes in your vision could be related to a combination of your eye prescription adjustments, your previous high blood pressure, and possibly even your thyroid medication. The sensation of pressure and dark spots may also relate to migraines, which you mentioned.
Next Steps:
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep a detailed log of your symptoms. Note when they occur, how long they last, and any triggers or patterns you notice. This information can help in identifying causes and discussing them with your healthcare provider.
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Trial of New Prescription: Since you and your optometrist have adjusted your contact lens prescription, give yourself some time to adapt to the change. If the symptoms persist or worsen after a week, it may warrant further investigation.
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Consult an Ophthalmologist: While your optometrist did not see any issues, it may be beneficial to see an ophthalmologist for a more comprehensive evaluation, especially regarding the pulsing sensation and dark spots. They may consider additional tests, like a visual field test or imaging, to evaluate your symptoms further.
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Review Medications with a Healthcare Provider: Discuss your symptoms and medications with your primary care provider (PCP) or an endocrinologist. They can assess whether the combination of methimazole, losartan, and metoprolol might be contributing to your symptoms and if any adjustments are necessary.
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Manage Stress and Hydration: Continue to manage your overall health. Stay hydrated, practice stress-reducing techniques like deep breathing or mindfulness, and ensure you're following your blood pressure management plan. These steps can help improve overall well-being and may alleviate some of the pressure you're feeling.
Remember, while it’s good to seek advice from others, your symptoms can be complex, and tailored medical guidance from your healthcare providers will provide the best pathway forward. Keep monitoring your symptoms, and take care!
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