VIDEO: Young man suffers from Valsalva Retinopathy, loses eyesight after heavy lifting at the gym; doctor reveals the real cause

Heavy Gym Workout Leads to Sudden Vision Loss: Doctors Warn of Rare Eye Condition Linked to Weightlifting

A shocking incident has surfaced on social media, serving as a wake-up call for fitness enthusiasts who engage in heavy lifting without proper breathing techniques. A 27-year-old healthy man suddenly lost vision in one of his eyes after performing a heavy deadlift at the gym. The case, shared by ophthalmologist Dr. Ashish Markan, known online as your_retina_doctor, highlights a rare but serious eye condition called Valsalva Retinopathy—a condition caused by the rupture of delicate retinal blood vessels due to a sudden rise in internal pressure.

According to Dr. Markan, the patient’s eyesight returned to normal within six to eight weeks without the need for surgery. However, the case has sparked widespread awareness about the hidden risks of improper breathing and extreme pressure during intense workouts.

What Is Valsalva Retinopathy?

Valsalva Retinopathy is a rare eye disorder that occurs when there is a sudden increase in pressure inside the chest or abdomen—known as intra-thoracic pressure. This happens when a person holds their breath or exerts excessive force during activities like heavy lifting, intense coughing, or vomiting. The pressure can extend to the tiny blood vessels in the retina, causing them to rupture and bleed.

As a result, the affected person may experience sudden, painless blurring or loss of vision, usually in one eye. In most cases, the condition resolves naturally over time, but in severe situations, medical intervention may be necessary.

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A post shared by Dr Ashish Markan (@your_retina_doctor)

Why Heavy Weightlifting Can Be Dangerous

Exercises such as deadlifts, squats, and abdominal workouts generate significant internal pressure. When individuals hold their breath while performing these moves, it can amplify stress within the eye’s microcirculation system. This increased strain can cause blood to leak into the retina, leading to temporary or, in rare cases, permanent vision impairment.

This phenomenon is linked to a technique called the Valsalva Maneuver, commonly used by lifters to stabilize their spine by holding their breath and tightening their core muscles during heavy lifts. While this method helps in maintaining posture and strength, it can dangerously spike internal pressure, affecting not just the heart and brain but also the eyes.

Expert Advice: How to Prevent Eye Damage During Workouts

Dr. Markan and other ophthalmologists recommend several preventive measures to avoid such injuries:

Maintain proper breathing: Never hold your breath while lifting weights. Instead, exhale slowly during exertion.

Know your limits: Avoid pushing your body beyond safe limits just to lift heavier weights.

Listen to your trainer: Follow professional guidance on breathing techniques and lifting posture.

Watch for warning signs: If you notice sudden blurred vision, floating black spots, or partial blindness, consult an eye specialist immediately.

Stop immediately if you feel discomfort: Any sensation of dizziness, headache, or eye strain should be treated as a warning to rest.

The Takeaway

While weightlifting and fitness training are crucial for a healthy lifestyle, improper breathing techniques and excessive pressure can pose unexpected health risks. Valsalva Retinopathy may be rare, but it highlights the importance of awareness, control, and caution during workouts.

Dr. Markan emphasizes that early detection and proper care can ensure full recovery in most cases. His advice to gym-goers is simple yet vital — train hard, but train smart.

Maintaining the right posture, breathing rhythm, and awareness of your body’s response can make all the difference between a healthy workout and a medical emergency.