Blood thinners, also known as anticoagulants or antiplatelet medications, reduce the formation of blood clots. These medications prevent serious conditions such as strokes, heart attacks, and deep vein thrombosis. This article explores the connection between blood thinners and vision, specifically blurry vision.
Blood Thinners and Vision Changes
While blurry vision is not a common side effect of blood thinners, these medications can increase the risk of certain vision issues. This is primarily due to an increased propensity for bleeding. Blood thinners inhibit the blood’s clotting ability, which can, in rare instances, increase the risk of bleeding in the eye.
Bleeding within the eye can occur in several areas, leading to different visual symptoms. For example, a retinal hemorrhage, bleeding in the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye, can cause blurred vision, vision loss, or floaters. A vitreous hemorrhage, where blood leaks into the gel-like substance filling the eye, can also result in decreased or blurry vision. In some cases, blood thinners may increase the risk of subretinal hemorrhages, particularly in individuals with pre-existing conditions like wet age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Such bleeding events in the eye are serious and require prompt medical attention.
Identifying Concerning Symptoms
Patients taking blood thinners should be aware of visual symptoms that may indicate bleeding within the eye. Sudden blurry vision warrants attention. Other concerning changes include partial or complete vision loss in one or both eyes.
New floaters, small specks or strands that drift into the field of vision, or flashes of light can signal a problem like a retinal tear or vitreous hemorrhage. Double vision, eye pain, persistent redness, or swelling of the eye also suggest a need for medical assessment.
Seeking Medical Guidance
If you experience any new or worsening vision symptoms while taking blood thinners, seek medical attention promptly. Do not discontinue your medication without consulting your doctor, as this could lead to serious health consequences related to blood clot formation.
Contact your prescribing physician immediately to report your symptoms. A medical professional can assess the cause of your vision changes and determine if they are related to your blood thinner medication. They may recommend a comprehensive eye examination by an ophthalmologist to evaluate the internal structures of your eye. Based on the findings, your healthcare team can recommend appropriate steps, which might include adjusting your medication dosage or exploring alternative treatments, to manage both your underlying condition and any ocular concerns.