Identifying the Cause of Miosis: What Leads to Constricted Pupils in the Eyes?

Abnormally small pupils (miosis) can be a sign of various underlying health conditions, medication side effects, or trauma. The pupil, the dark center of the eye, plays a crucial role in determining how much light reaches the retina. When the pupils are less than 2 millimeters in size, they are considered miotic.

Physiological causes of miosis include the normal response of the pupils to light conditions. In bright light, the pupil constricts to allow less light in, while in the dark, the pupil widens to enable more light for clear vision. On the other hand, pathological causes of miosis can be linked to conditions such as Horner’s syndrome, inflammation of the iris, infections, autoimmune diseases, stroke, toxins, or trauma.

Drug-induced miosis can occur due to certain medications, including antidepressants, cholinergic medications, miotic eye drops, opioids, antipsychotics, and high blood pressure medications.

Symptoms of miosis may include blurred vision, eye pain, headache, light sensitivity, red eyes, and vision loss. In cases where miosis is related to a medical emergency, such as a stroke or head injury, immediate medical attention is crucial.

Diagnosis of miosis involves a detailed eye examination by a healthcare provider, who may also order blood tests or imaging studies to detect underlying causes. Treatment varies based on the underlying cause, ranging from managing physiological responses to addressing medical conditions or adjusting medication dosages.

Overall, understanding the causes and treatment options for abnormally small pupils is essential in preserving both vision and overall health.