Man Suffers Sudden Vision Loss After Weightlifting, Diagnosed With Rare Eye Condition Valsalva Retinopathy

A young man lost vision after lifting heavy weights and was diagnosed with Valsalva retinopathy, a rare eye condition caused by sudden pressure changes. Know what it is, symptoms, causes, and prevention.

A young man recently experienced sudden vision loss when he was lifting heavy weights at the gym. Later, the doctors diagnosed him with having a rare known eye condition, Valsalva retinopathy, an individual circumstance occurring as a result of abrupt fluctuations of pressure in the body. Although it is uncommon, according to the experts who reported it, a typical person who carries heavy weights or overstrains themselves during exercise has experienced it.

What is Rare Eye Disease Valsalva Retinopathy?

Valsalva retinopathy is when the small blood vessels of the retina, the light-sensitive layer at the back of the eye, rupture when the pressure of the chest and stomach suddenly increases. It happens in cases when a person pulls in his breath and makes an effort, which is a widely known Valsalva manoeuvre.

An increase in pressure can make fragile retinal capillaries burst, resulting in blood leakage within the eye. This haemorrhage may not only partially but fully impair the vision of one or both eyes.

Why Rare Eye Disease Happens During Weightlifting?

This causes a person to breathe in and out unconsciously to stabilise the core and push more weight upwards during intense weightlifting. Though this brief breathing puts a strain upon the chest, neck and head and the government of the tender blood vessels of the eye as well.

In case these vessels are unable to cope with the pressure becoming sudden, they can burst, ending in a retinal haemorrhage. The person may experience:

Sudden blurred or dim vision
In front of the eye, a dark shadow or spot.
Visual distortions or floaters

Although it may be scary sometimes, the condition is temporary and non-permanent when the affected individuals are treated in time.

Can Rare Eye Disease Be Prevented?

Yes. The trick is in the breathing right during physical activity. Instead of holding its breath, trainers and doctors recommend breathing out during the exertion (suspected readers might need to exhale and inhale along with lifting a piece of weight). Hydration and excessive straining should be avoided as well, to reduce the threat of it.

Another important thing is listening to your body; thus, if you feel dizzy, lightheaded, or unaccompanied, or have any visual alterations during exercises, then you must stop and call a paramedic.

Valsalva Retinopathy: Treatment and Recovery

Valsalva retinopathy usually causes a recovery after a few weeks when the blood is naturally absorbed by the eyes. But when the bleed is large or, in the case of central vision, it occurs, then it may be advised by the doctor that he or she undertake laser treatment or surgery to clear the retina.

When you lose or eventually have blurred vision, even temporarily, it would be advisable to consult an eye specialist soon.

FAQs

How can you prevent Valsalva retinopathy?

Avoid holding your breath or straining excessively while lifting weights, and always practice safe gym techniques with proper breathing.

Is vision loss from Valsalva retinopathy permanent?

In most cases, vision returns within weeks or months as the bleeding heals on its own, but medical evaluation is important.

Can lifting heavy weights cause vision loss?

Yes, overstraining or lifting heavy weights can increase pressure inside the eye, which in rare cases may lead to conditions like Valsalva retinopathy.

What is Valsalva retinopathy?

Valsalva retinopathy is a rare eye condition caused by a sudden rise in pressure inside the body, leading to bleeding in the retina and temporary vision loss.