thread: Visual disturbances

  1. #1
    Registered User

    Oct 2008
    Victoria
    4,601

    Visual disturbances

    Just wondering what is normal and when to worry about visual disturbances in pregnancy? Yesterday I was at a friend's house having a cuppa when I 'saw' what looked like stars falling in front of me, but off to one side. Maybe for 10 secs then nothing else since and feel fine otherwise.

  2. #2
    BellyBelly Life Subscriber

    Jun 2008
    In snuggle land
    4,499

    I've heard of eyesight being affected in pregnancy. Not sure about those though. Could you have had low blood sugar? or high?

  3. #3
    MissEm Guest

    I'd give the midwives at your hospital a call. It could be nothing but you just can't risk it.

  4. #4
    Registered User

    Aug 2010
    Sydney Aus
    1,164

    I had that, when I had issues with my blood pressure.

    Definitely call and arrange a check up, just in case.

  5. #5
    Registered User

    Nov 2010
    Perth, WA
    3,172

    I get them sometimes if I've been vomiting particularly hard or have stood up really quickly - always thought "seeing stars" was a figure of speech, but apparently not. Think it's usually something to do with changes in blood pressure or the amount of blood to the head, but if it's happening while you're sitting down not really doing anything I'd definitely get it checked out.

  6. #6
    Registered User

    Oct 2008
    Victoria
    4,601

    Thanks for the replies girls. Yes I was just sitting at the time, could've been sugar related as I'd had some sweet things while sitting there. Though I'm wondering now if it was a dehydration thing as I hadn't had any water at that point, along with about 3 coffees!

    If it happens again I'll definitely give my middy a call - that's what she's there for

  7. #7
    Registered User

    Jan 2009
    brisbane
    2,521

    just be aware of any other changes. flashes of light or blurriness in one eye can be related to a detatched retina. if it continues or gets worse please see an optometrist asap.
    its very important if this is the case.

  8. #8
    BellyBelly Member

    Sep 2010
    North West Victoria, Australia
    3,003

    I see the 'falling stars' and when I'm getting a migraine. That's usually the first sign, then my sight completely goes and I lose feeling in my arms and legs and sometimes there's vomitting. I have to be in a completely black room to sleep it off.

    Hopefully it's just sugar related. I'd hate you to go through a migraine.

  9. #9
    Registered User
    Add MummaBee on Facebook

    Feb 2010
    NSW, Australia
    502

    Have you done your Gestational Diabetes test yet?

  10. #10

    Jul 2009
    Australia
    5,102

    Yep i get the "falling stars" when i am about to get a migraine also when my blood sugar levels are low. If you experience more or get concerned just give your midwife a call.

  11. #11
    Registered User

    Jul 2007
    melb
    8,498

    I suggest getting your BP checked as could be pre eclampsia.

    Good luck

  12. #12
    BellyBelly Member

    Oct 2008
    3,132

    I had visual disturbances from an iron deficiency while I was pregnant.

  13. #13
    Registered User

    Oct 2008
    Victoria
    4,601

    Wow looks like a few things can cause it! I haven't had the GD test yet, got the slip to go though. I had a middy appt one week ago and all was fine then so hoping it's nothing sinister!
    Last edited by ~Hestia~; September 9th, 2011 at 07:37 PM.

  14. #14
    Registered User

    Jan 2010
    712

    I suggest getting your BP checked as could be pre eclampsia.

    Good luck
    I had that, when I had issues with my blood pressure.

    Definitely call and arrange a check up, just in case.
    I get the falling stars when my blood pressure is up and its quiet common to be a symptom of pre eclampsia so if it happens again be sure to get checked out. Also possible to be dehydration. Goodluck I hope its nothing

  15. #15
    Registered User

    Oct 2011
    1

    I have also had the falling stars visual disturbance twice which don't last long the first time was when I was in the shower and then when I picked something up from the floor then stood up again. I spoke to my doctor and she said its probably because my blood pressure is a bit low and asked whether I get dissy with it. I don't get dissy with it though. Interesting how some people say it could be diabeties. I have this test in a couple of weeks time so I will keep you posted.

    It's quite scary actually. I was a bit embarrassed telling the doctor I just called it floaters not lights when I described it. Didn't realize other people get it until I read this forum

  16. #16
    Registered User
    Add leckert on Facebook Follow leckert On Twitter

    Mar 2008
    still on the teaching contract roundabout
    1,952

    I have them when I get migraines but if I get one while pg I will be getting them checked out for peace of mind at least


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