[48M] Experiencing blurred vision, cold sweats, and eye discomfort

Patient Description

A 48-year-old male reports progressively worsening blurred vision over the past three weeks, particularly at night and in the morning, along with the presence of halos around lights. Additionally, the patient has been experiencing cold sweats and shivering without exertion for the same duration. In the last 24 hours, the patient has noticed red, burning eyes, rating the discomfort at a 4 out of 10. The patient also mentioned weight loss. There is no history of sudden vision loss, severe headaches, neck stiffness, photophobia, or changes in urination. The patient has a long-standing history of GERD since 1996 and is taking Pantoprazole. No known allergies or adverse reactions to medications have been reported. No other medications or significant medical history was noted.

Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the information you have provided, possible diagnoses include:

Dry Eye Syndrome: This condition is characterized by a chronic lack of sufficient lubrication and moisture on the surface of the eye. Its consequences range from subtle but constant irritation to significant inflammation and even scarring of the front surface of the eye.
- Treatment typically involves over-the-counter or prescription eye drops, lifestyle changes, or procedures to close your tear ducts.
Glaucoma: This is a group of eye conditions that damage the optic nerve, which is vital to good vision. This damage is often caused by an abnormally high pressure in your eye and can result in blurred vision and seeing halos around lights.
- Treatment for glaucoma includes prescription eye drops, oral medications, laser treatment, or surgery.
Diabetes: Uncontrolled diabetes can cause a variety of symptoms, including blurred vision, weight loss, and fatigue. However, you did not mention increased urination or thirst, which are common symptoms of diabetes.
- Treatment for diabetes involves lifestyle changes, oral medications, or insulin therapy.
Thyroid Disease: Hyperthyroidism can cause weight loss, sweating, and eye problems. However, you did not mention other common symptoms such as a rapid heart rate or tremors.
- Treatment for hyperthyroidism can involve medication, radioactive iodine, or surgery.

Please remember that these are only possibilities. You should seek care from a real health professional to receive a formal diagnosis and treatment if appropriate.

What you can do

For your eye symptoms, you could try over-the-counter eye drops for dry eyes. Make sure to take breaks when doing close-up work like reading or using a computer.
Maintain a healthy diet and regular exercise, which can help with weight loss and fatigue.
Keep a symptom diary noting when your symptoms occur and any potential triggers. This can be helpful information for your doctor.

What you should look out for

Reasons to see a doctor more urgently:

If your vision worsens or you experience sudden vision loss
If your eye redness or burning worsens
If your weight continues to drop without trying
If you develop new symptoms such as a rapid heart rate, tremors, or increased urination and thirst.

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11 mo ago

Top picked over-the-counter products for Dry Eyes: American Academy of Ophthalmology Practice Guidelines