Living With Pigment Dispersion Syndrome – My Story, My Steps, My Hope

I recently received a diagnosis that took me by surprise: Pigment Dispersion Syndrome (PDS). I’m experiencing it primarily in my left eye, with my right eye also showing minimal involvement. While I wish I could say I caught it early and it’d be easily managed, the truth is there is no way to stop PDS completely. But there are meaningful steps I’m taking to reduce the risk of it worsening—and I want to share them, and my journey, with you.

The first thing I did was educate myself!

What is Pigment Dispersion Syndrome?

Pigment Dispersion Syndrome is a condition in which pigment granules (melanin fragments) slough off from the back of the iris (the colored part of the eye) and float freely into the eye’s front chamber. These pigment granules can deposit onto internal eye structures such as the corneal endothelium, the trabecular meshwork (the drainage pathway for aqueous humor), and the lens zonules.
The danger arises because the pigment can clog the drainage system of the eye, which then causes increased intraocular pressure (IOP). In some cases, over time, this elevated pressure may lead to damage to the optic nerve—a form of secondary glaucoma known as pigmentary glaucoma (PG).
While PDS often has no symptoms in its early stages, the underlying anatomical processes are real and measurable.

Why it matters — and why I’m paying attention

When I learned my diagnosis, I had to digest a few key realities:

• It is more than just “something happening in my eye.” This diagnosis means I carry a condition that has potential for progression. PDS doesn’t always become glaucoma, but the risk is significant.
• It is partly hereditary. Research shows a genetic link to PDS and the spectrum toward PG. Because of that, it was important for me to inform my siblings so they can be mindful of their eye health.
• I cannot “fix” it in the sense of reversing the pigment dispersion. There’s no treatment that simply stops PDS from happening. What is possible is vigilant monitoring and lifestyle steps to slow or reduce risk of progression.
• My left eye is more involved than my right. In my case, the left eye is showing greater signs of PDS, while the right eye is minimally affected. This asymmetry is something I will watch closely with my ophthalmologist.

Knowing all these factors, I felt a mix of gratitude (for discovering it) and resolve (for taking action). At the same time, I was disappointed: I let my siblings know about this hereditary risk, advising them that their ophthalmologist should be aware someone in the family has PDS. But you know what I heard back? Nothing. Nada. Not even crickets. You’d think at least one of the three might say, “I’m sorry you’re dealing with this,” or “Thanks for telling us.” That kind of response I would have given myself and earnestly meant. But I got silence. That’s my family. If it doesn’t affect them directly, they don’t seem to care.
While that hurts, I’ve decided not to let it derail my commitment to stewarding my own health.

Key signs, risk factors and what was involved in a PDS diagnosis

There are some key signs and risk factors involved in PDS. These include:

• Pigment deposits on the corneal endothelium (often seen as a “Krukenberg spindle”).
• Heavy pigmentation in the trabecular meshwork, visible under gonioscopy (the examination of the drainage angle).
• An iris shape that in certain positions bows backward (posterior iris bowing) causing mechanical rubbing of the iris pigment epithelium against the zonules.
• Myopia / nearsightedness is often present in many PDS cases; I’m mildly myopic (near-sighted), which is a known risk factor.
• As mentioned, a family pattern is present in some individuals, indicating a hereditary component.

What Pigment Dispersion Syndrome Feels Like: Early Warning Signs and Symptoms

Early and Possible Symptoms of Pigment Dispersion Syndrome (PDS)

Most people with PDS experience no symptoms at first. It’s often discovered during a routine eye exam, when pigment deposits or pressure changes are seen before vision is noticeably affected. I did not have an increase in eye pressure.
However, as pigment release increases or eye pressure begins to fluctuate, some subtle signs may start appearing.

Early or Intermittent Symptoms

These can come and go, sometimes triggered by activity, light changes, or pupil dilation:

• Floaters or dark specks – small spots that seem to drift in your field of vision, often due to pigment particles suspended in the aqueous fluid.
• Blurry vision – a temporary “hazy” or “foggy” effect, sometimes described as feeling like you’re looking through a thin layer of Vaseline or a fogged-up window.
• Flashes of light (photopsia) – quick bursts or flickers, especially in dim light, as the eye reacts to pigment dispersion and fluctuating pressure.
• Mild eye pain or pressure sensation – can feel like a dull ache behind the eye, often from transient spikes in intraocular pressure (IOP).
• Halos around lights – especially at night; rings or rainbow-like glare around headlights or lamps.
• Temporary vision dimming after exercise – due to pigment being released during activity and temporarily increasing IOP.
• Light sensitivity (photophobia) – increased glare or discomfort in bright environments.
• Difficulty focusing – especially when shifting between near and far objects.

I experienced most of these.

Common or Progressive Symptoms

If pigment buildup begins to affect the eye’s drainage system and raise eye pressure more persistently, symptoms can become more pronounced:

• Persistent blurred or fluctuating vision – not just occasional, but lasting for hours or days.
• Eye pain or headache – a deep, aching pressure, particularly around or behind the eyes.
• Reduced peripheral (side) vision – gradual narrowing of the visual field, sometimes unnoticed until significant.
• Increased floaters or dark “dust” in vision – more pigment circulating in the aqueous fluid.
• Rainbow rings around lights (colored halos) – due to corneal swelling from elevated eye pressure.
• Periods of foggy vision after activity – e.g., running, lifting, bending over, or spending long hours at a screen.
• Frequent need to blink or rub the eyes – though rubbing can worsen pigment release.

I have not experienced these yet.

Less Common but Notable Symptoms

These are less frequent but can occur depending on how pigment disperses and how sensitive the eye is to IOP changes:

• Sudden sharp or stabbing eye pain – may indicate a sudden pressure spike.
• Headache localized to one side (often behind the affected eye).
• Nausea or lightheadedness during acute IOP rise – uncommon, but possible if the spike is steep.
• Seeing “smoky shadows” or transient dark spots – due to clumps of pigment in the aqueous humor.
• Transient corneal edema (swelling) – temporary cloudiness of vision due to high IOP.
• Asymmetry between eyes – one eye affected more severely, with noticeable differences in clarity or comfort.
• Tired or heavy eyes – a feeling of strain even without overuse.
• Color perception changes – rare, but reported by some as muted or “washed-out” tones during pressure episodes.

I do have the asymmetry with my left eye being more heavily affected than the right eye. Interestingly enough, I noticed at a very young age, in my early teen years, that the color in my left eye was muted and looked washed out.

⚠️ Emergency or Concerning Symptoms (Seek Immediate Care)

If you experience these, contact your ophthalmologist or go to urgent eye care:

• Sudden severe eye pain or headache
• Nausea or vomiting accompanying eye pain (possible acute IOP spike)
• Sudden loss of vision or dark curtain/shadow over part of your vision
• Flashing lights with new floaters (could also indicate retinal involvement)

Helpful Perspective

Pigment Dispersion Syndrome doesn’t always cause noticeable symptoms — that’s part of why it’s tricky. Some people have years of pigment shedding without realizing it, while others feel immediate changes when pigment release increases or pressure spikes.

Eye pressure can also fluctuate throughout the day, which means symptoms may be episodic — clearer vision in the morning, hazier or achy eyes in the evening or vice versa, especially after prolonged screen time, bright light, or strenuous activity. My eyesight is clearer in the afternoon evening and more blurry when I wake up.

While I didn’t necessarily feel alarming symptoms, on examination my eye-doctor found classical features of PDS. Because of these factors and the clinical signs, my ophthalmologist confirmed the diagnosis of PDS. At this stage, I do not yet have signs of optic nerve damage (which would indicate pigmentary glaucoma). My eye pressure is being closely monitored, and my care plan is evolving accordingly.

What I’m doing to protect my eyes and reduce risk of worsening

While I cannot “stop” the pigment shedding entirely, I can be proactive about preserving my vision and reducing the chance of progression. Here are the steps I’m taking—and I share them in case you or someone you know is dealing with the same.

1. Scheduling regular ophthalmic monitoring

I visit my ophthalmologist (and glaucoma specialist when needed) at least every 3–6 months, depending on the status of the eye pressure, the optic nerve appearance, and the progression of pigment dispersion. These visits include measurements of IOP, optic nerve imaging (optical coherence tomography, OCT), gonioscopy, and visual field testing.
Because I have asymmetry (left eye more involved than right), both eyes are being tracked separately, and I’m keeping detailed records of my visit outcomes.

2. Being mindful about eye strain, rubbing, and trauma

Mechanical stress can worsen pigment dispersion. For example, rubbing the eyes, vigorous exercise, or positions that cause the iris to bow further may accelerate pigment release. Some studies suggest strenuous exercise can increase IOP or pigment release.
So, I’m avoiding eye rubbing and working to reduce activities that might cause undue eye stress, such as running, bending over with my head below my waist, and weightlifting, all of which can increase in ocular pressure.

3. Protecting my eyes from light / UV / glare

While this is more about general eye health than PDS-specific, I’m wearing high quality sunglasses outdoors to reduce exposure to UV light and bright glare which can induce pupil responses (dilation/constriction) that may increase pigment release. Also, in low-light or high-contrast screen use I take frequent breaks (e.g., the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds) to reduce strain.

4. Supporting eye-health through nutrition and lifestyle

I’ve increased my focus on systemic health as part of my eye-health strategy:

• Eating a diet rich in leafy greens, omega-3 fatty acids (from fish / chia / flax), berries (for antioxidants), and foods that support micro-circulation. While this isn’t a treatment for PDS, I believe supporting my whole body supports my eyes.
• Maintaining healthy blood pressure and cardiovascular health. Elevated systemic blood pressure can affect eye perfusion and indirectly affect glaucoma risk.
• Limiting caffeine or stimulants in contexts where I notice elevated eye-pressure spikes. Some evidence suggests acute IOP rise with caffeine in some glaucoma risk cases (though data are mixed).
• Prioritizing sleep and reducing stress, because elevated cortisol and poor sleep may negatively affect vascular and ocular health.

5. Being careful with medications or interventions that could affect IOP

While I am not currently on medications for glaucoma, my doctor and I have discussed what will trigger treatment if the eye pressure climbs or optic nerve changes appear. I’m avoiding self-medicating with over-the-counter agents that might raise IOP (for example certain decongestants or steroids without my doctor’s oversight). If I begin drops or laser therapy in the future, I’ll follow the regimen closely.

6. Informing family and emphasising the hereditary link

Because PDS can run in families, I told my siblings about my diagnosis and encouraged them to ask their ophthalmologist to monitor for PDS or at least note the family history. Early detection is foundational. The fact that I got minimal response from them is disappointing—but it doesn’t stop me from caring about their eye health. I’ll continue to carry the awareness for myself and for them.

7. Keeping my surroundings well-lit to minimize unnecessary pupil dilation

We used to keep our home fairly dim and cozy most of the time — low lamps, soft light, that kind of atmosphere. But since learning that long periods of pupil dilation can increase pigment release, I’ve made a simple but meaningful change: turning on more lights.
By keeping the environment brighter, my pupils stay naturally smaller and less dilated, which means less rubbing between the back of the iris and the lens zonules — and that may help reduce pigment shedding over time. It’s a minor adjustment, but one that feels empowering because it’s something I can control.

8. Avoiding activities that raise eye pressure or increase pigment release

Another major change I’ve made involves my exercise routine. While staying active is important, certain movements can raise intraocular pressure (IOP) or trigger additional pigment release in those of us with Pigment Dispersion Syndrome. My ophthalmologist advised me to avoid activities that cause the eyes to experience sudden or sustained pressure changes, including:

• Weight lifting or heavy straining – the pressure you build while holding your breath or tightening core muscles (the Valsalva maneuver) can sharply increase IOP.
• Running or high-impact exercise – repetitive jolting and increased heart rate can sometimes cause pigment to shear off the back of the iris and circulate.
• Yoga poses or movements where the head is below the waist – positions like downward-facing dog or deep forward folds can cause blood and fluid pressure to rise in the head and eyes.

Instead, I’m focusing on gentle, upright forms of exercise such as walking, stretching, light resistance bands, and breathing practices that promote circulation without strain. Movement is still essential, but for me, it now means mindful movement that supports eye health rather than risks it.

9. Staying consistently hydrated to support eye pressure balance

One of the simplest but most powerful things I’ve committed to is staying hydrated throughout the day. Our eyes rely on a delicate balance of fluids — and dehydration can sometimes cause changes in aqueous humor production and drainage, which may influence intraocular pressure.

I’ve started keeping a large water bottle nearby and sipping regularly instead of drinking large amounts all at once. Gradual, consistent hydration supports the body’s natural balance without sudden fluid shifts that could temporarily affect pressure. I also make a point to limit caffeine, since it can act as a diuretic and contribute to mild dehydration.

Beyond just eye health, proper hydration helps with blood flow to the optic nerve, detoxification, and overall energy levels — all of which are important when you’re working to protect and preserve your vision.

10. Keeping my blood sugar in a healthy range to protect circulation and nerve health

Another lifestyle change I’ve focused on is maintaining stable, healthy blood sugar levels. Even though Pigment Dispersion Syndrome itself isn’t a diabetic eye condition, high or fluctuating glucose levels can affect the fine network of blood vessels that supply the optic nerve and retina. Over time, those vessels can become weakened or inflamed, reducing oxygen and nutrient delivery to sensitive eye tissues.

I’ve found that keeping my blood sugar steady supports better vascular health, nerve resilience, and overall pressure balance in the eyes. To do this, I aim for balanced meals that include fiber-rich vegetables, lean protein through beans and lentils, and limited amounts of healthy fats, and I avoid long stretches without eating, which can cause blood sugar spikes and dips.

It’s a small but important way of supporting the whole system that keeps vision clear and strong. In a condition where pigment release can’t be stopped, every supportive measure that keeps the eyes nourished and stable truly matters.

The emotional side of the diagnosis

When you’re told you have a condition that could progress and lead to blindness—even if right now it’s stable—you inevitably feel a mix of hope, uncertainty, and resolve. For me, it has been a reminder of how precious and fragile our vision is, and how choosing to pay attention to our bodies is an act of stewardship.

I felt the sting when my siblings didn’t respond to my sharing. You know, I didn’t share to get pity; I shared because I wanted them aware. Their silence hurt in a way I didn’t expect. But I’ve reframed it: their reaction (or lack thereof) is not my responsibility. My responsibility is only to be aware, stay vigilant, and live in a way that honours the gift of sight. Even if others don’t respond, I will act.

I’ve also chosen to view this diagnosis as an invitation — not a sentence. An invitation to live with intention, to be rooted in health, to be strong in my body and spirit, to be energized about each day. So in that sense, it ties closely to my broader wellness journey.

Why monitoring matters — and what could happen if we don’t

Because PDS doesn’t always produce symptoms, it can quietly progress until significant damage is done. A slit-lamp examination, gonioscopy, IOP checks, optic nerve imaging—all of these are tools your ophthalmologist uses to catch subtle change early.
If left unchecked, a person with PDS could develop elevated IOP, optic nerve damage, visual field loss, and ultimately irreversible vision loss from pigmentary glaucoma. That’s why the early detection and regular follow-up matter so much.

In my case, noticing that the left eye had more involvement than the right means I’m watching that eye very carefully, because asymmetry sometimes suggests a higher risk of progression in the more affected eye. I am committed to staying ahead of change rather than catching up later.

What I wish I had known sooner

• That PDS might not be symptomatic. I had assumed if something was wrong I’d feel it. But many people with PDS don’t feel anything until later.
• That my ‘normal’ eye-exam may not have checked for angle changes or pigment deposition unless explicitly asked. Most standard vision checks focus on acuity, not necessarily the drainage angle.
• That lifestyle matters. While no lifestyle measure cures PDS, there is value in being proactive rather than passive.
• That telling my family mattered. Even if they didn’t acknowledge it, I did the right thing by informing them. If any of them ever decide to check, it’s because of me being transparent.
• That my vision is a gift worth protecting daily. It’s easy to take eyesight for granted until something threatens it.

Final thoughts

If you have been diagnosed with Pigment Dispersion Syndrome—or think you might be at risk—please don’t wait for symptoms. Ask your eye specialist for:

• A detailed check of the anterior chamber and drainage angle.
• Gonioscopy to assess pigment in the trabecular meshwork.
• Baseline imaging of optic nerve and retinal nerve-fiber layer (so you have reference for future changes).
• Clear follow-up plan: when is next IOP check, optic nerve imaging, visual field test?
• Discussion of lifestyle, activity (especially high-impact exercise) and what that means for your eyes.

For my part, I’m living with the reality of PDS in one eye (left) and early signs in the other (right), and I’ve chosen to rise into this reality with intention. I’m rooted in my body, being intentional about my steps, staying strong in vigilance, and energized about protecting what I have.
Yes, there is uncertainty. Yes, there is potential for progression. But there’s also hope — because I’m not passive. I’m participating. I’m not ignoring my eyes; I’m honouring them. And I want you to do the same for yours.

Thank you for reading, for joining me in this honest share, and for being part of a community that values whole-body wellness—including the amazing gift of sight. If you have questions about PDS, or are dealing with something similar, I invite you to reach out, share your story, and lean into the support of others who are choosing to rise.

The Next Step

If you’re inspired to take a more intentional approach to your health and daily habits, I encourage you to check out my RISE Journal — a year-long guided journal designed to help you track the small, meaningful choices that shape whole-being wellness. Whether you’re managing a condition like mine or simply want to live more rooted, intentional, strong, and energized, the RISE Journal offers space for reflection, progress tracking, and mindful living all year long. You can also explore the other wellness resources in my Healthy in Heart Store, from journals and companion guides to tools that nurture body, mind, and spirit. Each product was created to help you live with awareness, purpose, and balance — because true wellness begins with the daily rhythm of caring for the whole self.

You might also be interested in these articles:

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References

1. American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO). Pigment Dispersion Syndrome and Pigmentary Glaucoma. Available at: https://www.aao.org/eye-health/diseases/what-is-pigment-dispersion-syndrome
2. BrightFocus Foundation. Pigmentary Glaucoma and Pigment Dispersion Syndrome. Available at: https://www.brightfocus.org/resource/pigmentary-glaucoma-and-pigment-dispersion-syndrome
3. Cleveland Clinic. Pigment Dispersion Syndrome (PDS) and Pigmentary Glaucoma (PG). Available at: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/pigment-dispersion-syndrome-pigmentary-glaucoma
4. National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI). Pigment Dispersion Syndrome and Pigmentary Glaucoma — StatPearls. Available at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK580526/
5. EyeWiki. Pigmentary Glaucoma and Pigment Dispersion Syndrome. American Academy of Ophthalmology. Available at: https://eyewiki.org/Pigmentary_Glaucoma_and_Pigment_Dispersion_Syndrome
6. All About Vision. Pigment Dispersion Syndrome. Available at: https://www.allaboutvision.com/conditions/pigment-dispersion-syndrome/
7. Medical News Today. What is Pigment Dispersion Syndrome? Available at: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/what-is-pigment-dispersion-syndrome
8. Columbia University Irving Medical Center, Department of Ophthalmology. Pigment Dispersion Syndrome. Digital Reference of Ophthalmology. Available at: https://www.vagelos.columbia.edu/departments-centers/ophthalmology/education/digital-reference-ophthalmology/glaucoma/open-angle-glaucoma/pigment-dispersion-syndrome
9. Optometrists.org. Pigment Dispersion Syndrome and Glaucoma. Available at: https://www.optometrists.org/general-practice-optometry/guide-to-eye-conditions/glaucoma-guide/pigment-dispersion-syndrome-and-glaucoma/
10. National Library of Medicine (PMC). Pigment Dispersion Syndrome and Pigmentary Glaucoma: A Review of Current Literature. Frontiers in Medicine (2023). Available at: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9741933/