Ophthalmic considerations in pregnancy

Abstract

Eye diseases in pregnancy Pregnancy complications Pregnancy physiology a b s t r a c tThe eyes are our window to the world and offer us an island of vision in the sea of darkness.Equally, the eyes are also a window to peep into what is going on in the milieu interior.Pregnancy is a natural state of physiological stress for the body. Each organ system of the body in a pregnant lady behaves at variation than in a non-pregnant state. A complex interplay exists between how the pregnancy affects the eye and how ocular physiology and pathology may lead to the modification of the management of pregnancy. Added to this is the effect of systemic conditions on the eye which gets modified by pregnancy.

Pregnancy and the Eye

“…Pregnancy-related pathological changes may present as new ocular developments, changes in existing ocular pathology, and ocular complications of systemic diseases. 3,4 …”

Ophthalmic Complications and Ocular Changes in Pregnancy- A Review

“…Although many ocular changes are mild, temporary, and require little to no treatment, all ocular symptoms in pregnancy requires ophthalmologic examination and management [63]. However, long term data on ophthalmic drugs during pregnancy and lactation is insufficient [60,64]. Thus, doctors should always be cautious and consult expert opinion before using any topical or systemic treatment on the patient [60].…”

“…The recommendation for the use of ophthalmic medications below is supported by the latest recommendations of the National Registry of Drug-Induced Ocular Side Effects and FDA [61]. (Table 2- • Safe for single use • Repeated use is contraindicated due to teratogenic effects • All contraindicated during breastfeeding Table 4: Additional Ophthalmic Medication in Pregnancy [64].…”

Common eye infections

“…Patients must be advised of punctal occlusion, nasolacrimal pressure and wiping away extra liquid to prevent systemic absorption. 30 Practitioners should refer to the ABCD pregnancy category before prescribing antibiotics to pregnant women. Antibiotics and antivirals such as chloramphenicol, tobramycin, fluoroquinolones and topical aciclovir are considered safe to use during pregnancy.…”