Vision Changes With Parkinson's Disease

Parkinson's disease is a frustrating and incurable disease. Along with decreased motor skills, scientists at Emory University discovered that Parkinson's can also affect vision. Blindness is not a result of Parkinson's, but there are significant changes in vision due to impaired eye movement.

Blurriness

• In order to see properly, your eyes must be able to remain steady. Parkinson's disease may cause the eyes to shake, which will make your focus move slightly back and forth uncontrollably. This will cause blurred vision.

Double Vision

• Double vision may also be related to improper eye movement or tracking. When double vision is present, a single object will appear as two, either next to one another or stacked one on top of the other. An eye doctor can prescribe lenses with a prism that will pull the two images together.

Eye Discomfort

• If the muscles around the eyes are also affected, the eyelids may not function properly. This can cause dry eye, an uncomfortable feeling of grittiness or the sensation of a foreign body in the eye. Over-the-counter eye drops may help to temporarily relieve symptoms, but it is best to see an eye care professional to be sure no other eye conditions are present.

Medication Side Effects

• Medications for Parkinson's disease may also cause changes in vision. If vision changes occur when starting a new medication, contact the prescribing doctor to determine if the symptoms are a side effect of the drug.

Warnings

• Parkinson's disease causes difficulties with motor skills, which can make movement around the house more difficult. If vision changes are present as well, there is a greater risk for fall or injury. Contact a physician or eye doctor about any vision changes or eye discomfort.