Seeing halos around lights is common if you are looking directly at bright lights like headlights or lamps at night. It is a result of what is called diffraction, which occurs when light bends as it enters your eyes. These instances are often harmless and might even be a response to wearing contact lenses or eyeglasses. However, they could also be an indicator of a more serious problem with your eye health, especially if you are experiencing additional symptoms.
Common Reasons for Seeing Halos Around Lights
There are multiple reasons why patients may see halos around lights. Some are much more serious than others and require treatment beyond wearing corrective lenses. Here are the most common causes:
- Nearsightedness or farsightedness – Seeing halos is common with these eye issues because it may be difficult for the light to focus on the eyes’ retinas.
- Astigmatism – Because of the irregular shape of the eye’s cornea that occurs with astigmatism, light may not spread evenly on the retina, resulting in halos.
- Migraines – Seeing halos is a common migraine symptom and should be only temporary. If you experience frequent migraines, your doctor may be able to prescribe medication to prevent them.
- Dry eye syndrome – It is possible to see halos with this eye condition because the shape of the outer part of the eye can become irregular when it becomes too dry.
- Sunburned eyes – Being out in the sun too long without wearing proper sunglasses can cause sunburn to your eyes. Placing a cool, wet cloth over your closed eyes can help relieve eye irritation.
- Recent eye surgery – Having recent LASIK or cataract surgery could cause you to see halos. Always wear sunglasses outside to minimize the severity of halos and contact your eye doctor if you have any concerns.
- Cataracts – Seeing halos is one of the most common symptoms of cataracts, which can be detected at their early stages during a comprehensive eye exam. Surgery to remove the affected lenses can restore normal vision.
- Fuchs’ Dystrophy – This is an eye disease that causes swelling in the cornea, which bends the light as it enters the eye. It is a hereditary and progressive eye condition that is common in adults 50 years old or over.
Take Control of Your Eye Health
Early detection and treatment of serious eye health problems is crucial to protecting your eyesight. If you notice a sudden onset of seeing halos, don’t wait until your next exam to discuss with your eye doctor.
Take control of your eye health and schedule your next comprehensive eye exam with Valley Eyecare Center. Call (602) 955-2700 to book your appointment to
