Oftentimes, people experience vision problems due to medications they have been prescribed. Systemic medications can cause ocular side effects. Some of the effects caused by these types of medications are minor and can be resolved on their own. Others can persist and require treatment to be fully dealt with. At Des Plaines Eye Care Center, our eye doctor has years of experience identifying and addressing ocular changes due to medication. We are proud to offer reliable eye care services to residents of Des Plaines, IL, and the surrounding areas.
Understanding Systemic Drugs
Systemic medications are drugs that are used to treat conditions that can affect the whole body or certain systems of the body. For example, beta-blockers affect the cardiovascular system. This classification of drugs is known to cause changes in one's vision. Systemic drugs can also affect the nervous system, gastrointestinal system, and respiratory system. Conditions treated with systemic drugs include hypertension, diabetes, hyperthyroidism, kidney disease, epilepsy, and some mental disorders.
Pre-Existing Conditions
If a person has been diagnosed with a pre-existing condition such as an end-stage renal disease, a disease which involves their liver, diabetes, pregnancy, or glaucoma, they are already predisposed to ocular damage. The use of systemic medications can advance and or exasperate ocular disturbances. This is why it is so important for people who have these types of conditions to visit an eye doctor regularly for treatment and vision therapy as needed.
Systemic Medications and Their Effects
The list of systemic drugs is extensive. These drugs fall into multiple categories of drugs, including:
- Anti-inflammatory drugs
- Antihistamines
- Anticonvulsant
- Alpha 1 blockers
- Antimalarials
- Corticosteroids
- Antidepressants
- Antipsychotics
- Antifungal
Accumulation of these drugs at high levels may cause damage to the ocular tissue. These types of drugs can also cause the lens to become more sensitive to UV rays. Some systemic medications, like allopurinol, make those taking it more likely to develop cataracts. Our eye doctor will consider the medications you are on when performing an eye exam. Certain medications will make you more susceptible to certain conditions, and we will monitor your ocular health closely to identify conditions in their early stages and provide treatment as necessary.
Eye Doctor in Des Plaines, IL
If you are having ocular disturbances like blurred vision or dry eyes Des Plaines Eye Care Center is ready to assist you. Regular eye exams are essential, especially if you are taking systemic medications. For more information on the ocular effects of systemic medications or to schedule an appointment with our eye doctor, call us at (224) 236-2020.