Finding out you are going to have a baby is one of the top moments of life’s highlight reel. Mothers-to-be begin nesting and preparing a nursery, picking out clothes, debating name choices and focusing on how to stay healthy as they spend the next 40 weeks growing a tiny person. From prenatal vitamins to what type of workouts work best for your growing bump, there are many common concerns and precautions for expecting mothers.
A woman’s body undergoes obvious changes during pregnancy including weight gain, hormone fluctuations, hair & nail growth, water retention and even changes to smell and taste. But did you know pregnancy can affect the eyes too? Hormones that support your growing baby cause fluid retention that can increase the thickness and curvature of the cornea. This side effect may lead to changes in prescription, sudden discomfort from contact lenses, dry eyes, blotchy eyelids, puffy eyes, blurry vision, hypersensitivity to light, an onset of eye floaters, migraine headaches and diabetic eye disease. Conditions brought on during pregnancy such as gestational diabetes and preeclampsia are marked by the alterations in the levels of certain hormones that keep fluctuating during different trimesters. The rise in blood sugar levels can cause swelling in the lens of the eye causing blurred vision. High blood sugar can also cause damage to the blood vessels in the retina leading to more serious visual complications including vision loss.
Typically, slight changes in vision during pregnancy are common and not cause for concern. Regular prenatal check-ups should include discussions about vision changes. Pregnant women must inform their healthcare provider if they experience any unusual symptoms or vision disturbances. It’s essential to maintain overall eye health by eating a balanced diet rich in nutrients, staying hydrated and getting regular exercise. Additionally, wearing sunglasses with UV protection can help shield the eyes from harmful ultraviolet rays. If prescription changes are necessary, it’s crucial to consult an eye care professional for an updated prescription. While some changes may be temporary and resolved after childbirth, others may require ongoing management.
Pregnancy is a miraculous journey filled with numerous physical changes as a woman’s body adapts to accommodate the growth and development of a new life. Eye health during pregnancy, common concerns and precautions for expecting mothers, is a topic every woman should discuss with their doctor. Better to err on the side of caution in knowing what potential side effects can occur during pregnancy and when it is time to be concerned. Those with eye disease pre-pregnancy such as glaucoma or diabetic retinopathy will want to prepare treatment options and work to manage blood sugar and blood pressure levels to maintain healthy eyes and vision throughout the pregnancy.
For more information regarding eye health during pregnancy, contact Wichita Vision Institute at 316-773-6400 or WEBSITE.