What Researchers Did
Researchers conducted a systematic review of existing studies and presented a case report to understand how hyperbaric oxygen exposure, from both diving and hyperbaric oxygen treatment (HBOT), affects vision, specifically leading to nearsightedness.
What They Found
The systematic review included 22 articles, mostly describing ocular complications in HBOT patients, but also four focused on divers. A 54-year-old male diver experienced a significant worsening of his vision after 75 dives, with his prescription changing from -3.75/-5.75 to -5.5/-7.75 dioptres. The review suggested that divers might experience a greater shift towards nearsightedness with less oxygen exposure compared to HBOT patients, though the data was too varied for detailed statistical analysis.
What This Means for Canadian Patients
For Canadian patients undergoing hyperbaric oxygen therapy or recreational divers, this study highlights that temporary or permanent nearsightedness (myopia) can be a potential side effect. Patients should discuss potential vision changes with their healthcare providers before and after HBOT, and divers should be aware of this risk with repetitive diving.
Canadian Relevance
No direct Canadian connection identified.
Study Limitations
The studies included in the review were too varied to allow for strong statistical analysis or to set clear safety limits for preventing nearsightedness.