Cialis Eye Problems, Blindness

Like any medicine, Cialis can cause a number of side effects. Some of the most commonly reported side effects include eye and vision problems. Up to 2 percent of Cialis users reported problems that include blurred vision, eye pain, seeing blue tinge to objects, and color blindness (difficulty distinguishing the color blue and green).

There are also rare cases of users experiencing temporary or permanent vision loss. However, since cases of blindness due to Cialis are rarely reported, it is unclear whether this medication is the actual cause of vision loss. Some healthcare experts believe that blindness may be caused by other factors such as genetics, medical conditions, or something completely not related to Cialis use.

How Cialis Can Cause Blindness

PDE5 inhibitors, including Cialis, can decrease blood supply to the optic nerve of the eye which can lead to a condition called non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION). This condition can cause either temporary or permanent vision loss in one or both eyes. Having history or existing medical conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, or vision problems may increase the risk of NAION. Likewise, people who are over 50 years old and those who smoke have higher chances of experiencing vision problems with Cialis.

If you have any of these risk factors, be sure to talk about it with your healthcare provider. You and your healthcare provider can come up with a decision about the use of Cialis.

If you are taking Cialis and experience any change in vision, you should consult your healthcare provider right away. These subtle signs may indicate impending sign of NAION as such requires immediate treatment. Furthermore, in case you develop serious vision problems such as temporary or permanent loss of sight while taking Cialis, stop taking the medication and get emergency medical help.