TL;DR
In many cases, horizontal lines in your vision may signal something harmless, but they can also point to underlying eye conditions that need attention.
Learn what these lines might mean, what causes them, and when you should see an eye specialist.
What do horizontal lines in vision look like?
Horizontal lines in vision may appear differently depending on the cause. Some people describe them as:
- Wavy or distorted lines, especially when looking at straight objects
- Faint shadows or streaks, usually more noticeable against light backgrounds
- Dark or bright lines, either static or moving
- Temporary lines that come and go, often linked to lighting or eye strain
These lines might affect one eye or both and could appear in your central or peripheral vision.
Possible causes of horizontal lines in your vision
Several eye-related conditions can lead to the appearance of horizontal lines. Some are more serious than others, so it’s important to understand the possibilities.
1. Macular degeneration
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) affects the macula, the central part of the retina responsible for sharp vision. It’s one of the leading causes of vision loss in people over 50 years. Key symptoms include:
- Wavy lines instead of straight ones (known as metamorphopsia)
- Blurred or patchy central vision
- Difficulty reading or recognising faces
If AMD is suspected, an Amsler grid test can help detect these distortions early.
2. Macular pucker
Also called epiretinal membrane, macular pucker involves scar tissue forming on the retina. It can cause your vision to appear wrinkled or distorted, often resulting in horizontal or wavy lines. It might be caused by:
- Ageing
- Previous eye surgery
- Retinal tears
Mild cases might not need treatment, but in more severe cases, surgery may be considered.
3. Retinal detachment or tear
A retinal tear can lead to fluid getting behind the retina, causing it to lift or detach. This is a medical emergency and can lead to permanent vision loss if not treated quickly. Look out for:
- Sudden appearance of floaters
- Flashes of light
- A shadow or curtain over part of your vision
- Wavy or distorted lines in the affected area
If you experience any of these signs, seek immediate help from an eye emergency service.
4. Visual migraines
Some people see horizontal or zigzag lines as part of a visual migraine. These usually last around 20 to 30 minutes and may be followed by a headache, though not always. Other symptoms might include:
- Flashing lights
- Blind spots
- Shimmering shapes
Visual migraines aren’t usually serious, but if you’ve never had one before, speak to your GP or optician to rule out other causes.
5. Eye strain or dry eye
Spending long hours on screens or in dry environments can cause temporary visual disturbances, including faint lines or blurring. These often resolve with rest or eye drops. To reduce eye strain:
- Follow the 20-20-20 rule (every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds)
- Adjust your screen brightness
- Use lubricating eye drops if needed
Related read: 10 Eye Exercises To Improve Vision
When should you be concerned?
Not all lines are a sign of something serious. However, if you notice any of the following, it’s best to get checked by a specialist:
- Sudden changes in your vision
- Lines that don’t go away or worsen over time
- Flashes of light or new floaters
- Loss of part of your vision
- Distortion when looking at text or straight lines
Early diagnosis can help prevent further damage, especially with conditions like macular degeneration or retinal detachment.
How are vision disturbances diagnosed?
An eye specialist will carry out a range of tests to understand what’s causing the lines. These may include:
- Dilated eye exam: To get a clear view of the retina and macula
- Optical coherence tomography (OCT): A scan that shows detailed layers of the retina
- Visual acuity test: To check how well you can see letters at different distances
- Amsler grid test: To detect any distortion in your central vision
If needed, you may be referred for further testing or treatment based on the results.
Treatment options for horizontal lines in vision
The best treatment depends on what’s causing the lines in your vision. Here’s a general idea of what might be recommended:
Macular conditions (e.g. AMD or Pucker)
- Monitoring in mild cases
- Injections for wet AMD
- Surgery for macular pucker if vision is badly affected
Retinal tear or detachment
- Laser treatment or cryotherapy (freezing) for minor tears
- Surgery for full retinal detachment
Visual migraines
- No treatment needed in most cases
- Medication if migraines are frequent or severe
Eye strain or dry eye
- Lifestyle changes, like screen breaks
- Eye drops or ointments
- Humidifiers in dry environments
How to protect your vision
Keeping your eyes healthy can help reduce the risk of visual changes. Here are some simple ways to look after your eyes:
- Get regular eye tests: At least every two years, or more often if advised
- Eat a balanced diet: Foods rich in omega-3s, lutein, and vitamins A, C, and E support eye health
- Stop smoking: Smoking increases the risk of macular degeneration
- Wear sunglasses: Protect your eyes from UV rays
- Manage health conditions: Like high blood pressure or diabetes, which can affect your eyes
Keep your vision clear
Seeing horizontal lines in your vision might be a harmless flicker or a sign your eyes need professional attention. Either way, it’s important to take these changes seriously. Regular check-ups and early action can make all the difference to your long-term eye health.
If you’re worried about changes to your vision, book an eye test with a qualified specialist today. Don’t wait for it to get worse.
