[22F] Experiencing eye pain, blurred vision, and light sensitivity

Patient Description

A 22-year-old female has been experiencing intermittent eye pain for 5 months, rated at a severity of 6 out of 10, primarily at the top of the eyeball. The pain is accompanied by episodes of blurred vision that last for several days. She also reports significant light sensitivity, with exposure to light causing a stinging sensation in the affected eye. The patient has noticed redness in her eyes but no discharge. She also experiences headaches but no nausea or vomiting. The patient has been taking Lexapro 10mg daily for anxiety and has no known drug allergies except for nickel. There is no known family history of glaucoma or other eye diseases, and no recent injuries or substance use that could explain the symptoms.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the symptoms you've described, here are a few possible conditions:

  • Acute Angle-Closure Glaucoma: This is a serious condition where the pressure inside the eye increases rapidly. Symptoms can include severe eye pain, blurred vision, headache, redness in the eye, and nausea or vomiting. However, you did not report nausea or vomiting.

    • Treatment usually involves medications to decrease the pressure in the eye, and often requires surgery.

  • Corneal Abrasion or Ulcer: These conditions involve damage to the cornea, the clear front surface of the eye. Symptoms can include eye pain, blurred vision, and light sensitivity. However, these conditions usually cause constant rather than intermittent pain.

    • Treatment can involve antibiotic eye drops or ointment, and sometimes a patch over the eye.

  • Uveitis: This is inflammation of the uvea, the middle layer of the eye. Symptoms can include eye pain, blurred vision, and light sensitivity. However, uveitis usually causes constant rather than intermittent pain.

    • Treatment usually involves steroid eye drops and sometimes other medications.

What you can do

Given the severity and duration of your symptoms, it's important to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Eye conditions can worsen quickly and potentially lead to permanent vision loss if not treated promptly.

In the meantime, you can try the following:

  1. Avoid rubbing your eyes, as this can potentially cause further damage.
  2. Wear sunglasses to help reduce light sensitivity.
  3. Continue using a warm compress to help alleviate pain.

What you should look out for

Please seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of the following:

  • Sudden loss of vision
  • Severe eye pain
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Worsening of your current symptoms

Please remember that while I strive to provide accurate information, I'm not a doctor and this advice should not replace a consultation with a healthcare professional.

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9 mo ago

People Also Ask

What are the common causes of intermittent eye pain and blurred vision?

Intermittent eye pain and blurred vision can be caused by several conditions, including acute angle-closure glaucoma, corneal abrasions or ulcers, and uveitis. Each of these conditions has distinct characteristics and requires medical evaluation for accurate diagnosis and treatment.

How can light sensitivity be managed at home?

To manage light sensitivity at home, you can wear sunglasses to reduce glare, use dim lighting indoors, and avoid direct exposure to bright lights. Additionally, resting your eyes and using a warm compress can help alleviate discomfort.

What are the potential risks if eye conditions like these are left untreated?

If eye conditions like acute angle-closure glaucoma, corneal abrasions, or uveitis are left untreated, they can lead to serious complications, including permanent vision loss, increased eye pressure, and chronic pain. Prompt medical attention is crucial to prevent these outcomes.

Can anxiety medication like Lexapro affect eye health or vision?

Lexapro, an anxiety medication, is not commonly associated with direct effects on eye health or vision. However, any new or worsening symptoms should be discussed with a healthcare provider to rule out any potential side effects or interactions.

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