Seeing halos around lights can be unsettling. Whether it’s a glare around streetlights at night or a glowing ring around car headlights, this visual disturbance can indicate underlying eye conditions. While some causes are harmless, others may require urgent medical attention.
In this guide, we’ll explore why you might be experiencing halos in vision, common conditions that contribute to this issue, and when to consult an optometrist.
What Are Halos Around Lights?
Halos are bright circles or rings surrounding light sources, often appearing at night or in dim lighting. They may be accompanied by other symptoms like blurred vision, eye discomfort, or difficulty seeing in the dark.
Common Causes of Seeing Halos Around Lights
Several factors can contribute to eyes halos, ranging from refractive errors to more serious eye diseases. Here are the most common causes:
1. Refractive Errors (Astigmatism & Myopia)
Conditions like astigmatism and nearsightedness (myopia) can cause light to scatter improperly in the eye, leading to halos. Astigmatism, in particular, can distort vision, making lights appear streaky or surrounded by rings.
Related article: Astigmatism and Night Vision
2. Cataracts
Cataracts develop when the eye’s natural lens becomes cloudy, causing light to scatter and leading to glare and halos. This is a common issue among older adults and may require surgical correction.
Related article: Cataracts and Vision Changes
3. Glaucoma & High Eye Pressure
Glaucoma, particularly acute angle-closure glaucoma, can increase intraocular pressure, causing halos, pain, and sudden vision loss. If you experience halos with headaches and nausea, seek emergency care.
Related article: Glaucoma and Vision Health
4. Dry Eye Syndrome
Insufficient tear production can lead to dry eye syndrome, which affects light refraction on the cornea, sometimes resulting in halos and glare.
Related article: Dry Eye Syndrome Symptoms
5. Contact Lenses & Post-Surgery Effects
Wearing poorly fitted contact lenses or recovering from LASIK surgery can temporarily cause halos due to changes in the corneal surface.
6. Visual Migraines & Neurological Conditions
Some people experience visual migraines, which can cause temporary halos, kaleidoscope vision, or flashing lights without a headache.
Related article: Kaleidoscope Vision Causes
When Should You See an Eye Doctor?
While occasional halos may not be a cause for concern, you should consult an optometrist if you experience:
- Persistent halos affecting daily vision
- Sudden onset of halos with headaches or nausea
- Eye pain or vision loss
- Difficulty driving at night due to glare
Related article: When to Worry About Seeing Halos and Floaters
Diagnosis & Treatment for Halos Around Lights
Comprehensive Eye Exam
A thorough eye exam can help identify the root cause of halos and determine if corrective lenses, eye drops, or other treatments are needed.
Schedule an appointment with Dr. Jiwani in Toronto: Book an Eye Exam
Corrective Lenses & Glasses
If refractive errors like astigmatism or myopia are responsible, prescription glasses or contacts can significantly improve night vision and reduce halos.
Cataract Surgery
For cataract-induced halos, lens replacement surgery is an effective treatment, restoring clear vision and eliminating glare.
Glaucoma Management
If glaucoma is the cause, medications or surgical options may be necessary to lower intraocular pressure and prevent vision loss.
Preventing Halos in Vision
To minimize the risk of halos, consider these eye care tips:
- Use anti-glare lenses if you struggle with night vision.
- Keep your eyes hydrated to prevent dry eye syndrome.
- Regularly check your eye health, especially if you have a family history of glaucoma or cataracts.
- Reduce screen time and take breaks to avoid digital eye strain.
Book an Eye Exam in Toronto with Dr. Jiwani
If you’re seeing halos around lights frequently, don’t ignore the symptoms. Early detection and treatment can prevent vision complications. Dr. Jiwani and her team offer expert eye care solutions in Toronto.
