Living with HIV requires paying close attention to various aspects of your health — and your eyes are no exception. While many people focus on the immune system and general well-being, the eyes can also be significantly affected by HIV, especially when the virus isn’t well-controlled. In fact, eye complications can be early signs of immune deterioration or opportunistic infections…..CONTINUE READING
Here are three dangerous conditions that can affect your eyes if you have HIV:
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1. Cytomegalovirus (CMV) Retinitis
What it is:
CMV retinitis is a serious viral eye infection that occurs in people with weakened immune systems, particularly when CD4 cell counts fall below 50 cells/mm³. It’s caused by the cytomegalovirus, which is part of the herpesvirus family.
How it affects your eyes:
CMV attacks the retina — the light-sensitive layer at the back of your eye — causing inflammation, bleeding, and retinal damage. It often starts in one eye but can spread to both if untreated.
Symptoms include:
•Blurred vision
•Blind spots
•Floaters (spots or strings in your vision)
•Sudden loss of vision (in advanced cases)
Why it’s dangerous:
If left untreated, CMV retinitis can lead to permanent blindness. It requires urgent antiviral treatment and better HIV management to prevent progression.
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2. HIV Retinopathy
What it is:
HIV retinopathy is the most common HIV-related eye condition. It involves damage to the small blood vessels in the retina due to the virus itself, even in the absence of opportunistic infections.
How it affects your eyes:
The condition causes areas of bleeding and whitening on the retina. Although it usually doesn’t affect vision at first, it can become more serious if HIV isn’t well controlled.
Symptoms include:
•Mild blurred vision
•Visual floaters
•In some cases, no symptoms at all (but visible during an eye exam)
Why it’s dangerous:
Though typically less severe than CMV, HIV retinopathy can be an early warning sign of advanced HIV and poor immune function. It can also increase the risk of more severe retinal problems.
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3. Ocular Toxoplasmosis
What it is:
Toxoplasmosis is a parasitic infection that can affect the eyes, especially in people with compromised immune systems. It’s caused by the Toxoplasma gondii parasite, which can be contracted through undercooked meat or exposure to cat feces.
How it affects your eyes:
The infection can lead to inflammation of the retina and choroid (the layer of blood vessels under the retina), a condition known as chorioretinitis.
Symptoms include:
•Eye pain
•Blurred vision
•Redness
•Sensitivity to light
•Floaters
Why it’s dangerous:
Without prompt treatment, ocular toxoplasmosis can lead to permanent vision loss. It often requires a combination of antiparasitic medication and immune-boosting antiretroviral therapy.
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Final Thoughts
Eye problems in people living with HIV are not just discomforts — they can be signs of serious, even sight-threatening conditions. If you have HIV, especially with a weakened immune system, regular eye exams are crucial. Early detection and timely treatment can protect your vision and your quality of life.
What you can do:
•Stay consistent with your HIV medications (ART)
•Monitor your vision regularly
•See an eye doctor immediately if you notice any changes in vision
Remember: Taking care of your eyes is part of taking care of your whole body. Don’t ignore what your vision may be trying to tell you….CONTINUE READING