JOIN USDistorted vision can greatly impact your quality of life. Hence, it is important to find out what is causing it, writes Dr Rajeev Jain
Distortion of vision refers to straight lines that appear bent, crooked, or wavy. This is usually caused by distortion of the retina. Many people do not know they have eye disease because there are often no warning signs. Hence, early detection and treatment of any eye problem is the best way to maintain healthy vision. Depending on the underlying cause, vision distortion may be temporary, intermittent or permanent. There are three common eye disorders that may lead to distorted vision:
* Age-related macular degeneration: As we age, abnormal blood vessels may begin to grow in weakened areas of the eye and interfere with our central vision. The condition starts out dry, with no symptoms, and progresses to a wet stage when bleeding or fluid leakage occurs in the retina.
* Diabetic macular oedema: This disorder is an accumulation of fluid in the macula — the part of the retina that controls our most detailed vision abilities — due to leaking blood vessels. Insulin and non-insulin dependent diabetics are at risk of developing this condition. Hence, they should be screened every year. The length of time a patient has had diabetes and how well he or she can control their blood sugar influences how likely the patient is to develop the condition.
* Retinal vein occlusion: This occurs when a vein blockage impairs the circulation of blood in the back of the eye, which leads to blurring and distortion in central vision.
* Astigmatism: This is an imperfection in the curvature of the cornea, the transparent layer that forms the front of the eye. Normally, the cornea and lens are smooth and curved evenly in all directions, helping to focus light rays sharply onto the retina. However, if the cornea or the lens isn’t smooth and evenly curved, light rays aren’t refracted properly. This is called astigmatism or refractive error.
* Conjunctivitis: This happens when the conjunctiva, which is the mucous membrane that covers the front of the eye and lines the inside of the eyelids, is swollen. When the conjunctiva becomes irritated or swollen, the blood vessels become more prominent and make the eye appear red.
Distorted vision could also be caused by other eye disorders like keratoconus. However, this can be avoided by making a few simple lifestyle changes. Steps like eating a diet rich in vitamin A, C and E will help in slowing down age-related degradation of the eyes. Regular eye exercises and avoiding long hours in front of the computer or smartphone will help immensely in reducing eye strain. Also consider wearing sunglasses in bright sunlight, as it can help protect the eyes from harmful ultraviolet rays. As they say, prevention is always better than cure.
(The author is eye surgeon & director, Save Sight Centre, Delhi)