Eye problems related to breast cancer treatment

Breast cancer treatments may affect your eyes, including your vision. This is not a common side effect, but you need to be aware of what can happen.

Your treating team will recommend strategies and treatments to help manage any symptoms. They will also tell you if you need to see an eye specialist (‘ophthalmologist’).

How chemotherapy affects eyes and vision

Some chemotherapy agents can affect your eyes and vision.

Problems include:

• eye pain
• blurry or double vision
• watery eyes
• red, itchy or dry eyes
• conjunctivitis
• seeing dark spots
• sensitivity to sunlight

Effect of hormone-blocking therapy

Hormone-blocking therapies, especially tamoxifen, can have an effect on your eyes. This includes:

• redness, dryness and irritation
• blurred vision
• decreased visual acuity
• retinopathy (damage to the retina)
• development of cataracts (with long term use)

When you are on hormone-blocking therapy, it is important to have your eyes checked regularly. Your optician or ophthalmologist can monitor any changes and treat them if necessary.

Ways to manage eye problems

The following strategies may help you prevent or manage eye issues:

• Use eye drops such as artificial tears to relieve dry and gritty eyes. Always check with your oncology team before you use them, as not all over-the-counter preparations are suitable.
• Use saltwater eye baths to provide some relief from sore eyes.
• Protect your eyes from sun and wind by wearing sunglasses, especially if you have lost your eyelashes.
• Consider wearing glasses instead of contact lenses to reduce irritation.
• Wash your hands before you touch your eyes to reduce the risk of an eye infection such as conjunctivitis.