blurred Vision

Blurred vision can happen because of being tired, or it can be a symptom of another condition. Treatment depends on the cause. If blurred vision comes on suddenly, seek medical help immediately.

What is blurry vision?

Blurred vision refers to the condition where your ability to see objects clearly is compromised. It means that your vision lacks sharpness and clarity. Sometimes squinting can help bring objects into focus. Typically, the blurriness of your vision tends to worsen over time. However, some conditions can cause sudden onset of blurriness.

Blurred vision is the most frequently reported visual symptom that individuals communicate to their healthcare professionals.

POSSIBLE CAUSES

How does your healthcare provider determine the cause of your blurry vision?

To identify the underlying cause of your blurry vision, your healthcare provider will inquire about various aspects:

• Do you have any other medical conditions like diabetes, hypertension, HIV/AIDS, sickle cell anemia, or lupus?
• Can you provide a description of what you mean when you mention blurry vision?
• Are there any additional symptoms you’re experiencing, such as vision-related issues like eye floaters, or other physical signs and symptoms that might be linked to specific diseases or conditions?
• Have you sustained any injuries, like from a fall?
• Are you taking medications that could potentially impact your vision, such as steroids?

What are the common causes of progressive blurry vision?

Blurred vision is a prevalent symptom with a wide range of potential causes. This includes common factors like refractive errors and dry eyes. Here are some of the potential causes:

Refractive errors leading to blurry vision

Refractive errors occur when the eyes are unable to focus images properly. This category includes conditions like astigmatism, farsightedness, and nearsightedness. Corrective measures like eyeglasses, contact lenses, or surgery can often address these conditions. Refractive errors are the most frequent cause of blurry vision.

Blurred vision due to dry eye syndrome

Another frequent cause of blurry vision is dry eyes. If your vision improves when you blink, you might have dry eyes. Dry eye syndrome can create a sensation akin to a film covering the eyes. It might also lead to itching, redness, and discomfort. Treatment often involves the use of artificial tears.

Progressive blurry vision caused by age-related macular degeneration

Age-related macular degeneration stands as the leading cause of vision loss among older individuals. This condition impacts central vision, making it difficult to see objects directly in front of you. It can affect one or both eyes.

Blurred vision linked to diabetic retinopathy

Diabetic retinopathy can affect individuals with diabetes and has the potential to reduce vision, even leading to blindness. This condition weakens blood vessels in the retina.

Blurry vision due to glaucoma

In cases of glaucoma, fluid accumulation within the eye exerts pressure on the optic nerve. This nerve damage can result in partial vision loss or blindness.

Cataracts causing blurry vision

Cataracts form when the eye’s lenses become opaque and clouded, hindering clear vision. Cataracts can develop in one or both eyes, causing blurry vision and reduced contrast. Halos around lights might also become apparent in dim lighting.

Blurred vision resulting from optic neuritis

Optic neuritis refers to inflammation and irritation of the optic nerve. It can manifest on its own or as a consequence of other conditions, including multiple sclerosis. Although more common in one eye, it can affect both eyes.

Blurred vision due to inherited optic nerve disorders

Certain genetic disorders lead to optic nerve damage, although this is less common compared to causes like cataracts or refractive errors.

Blurred vision stemming from corneal scars

Deficiencies in vitamin A can lead to these scars, often occurring more frequently in less developed regions.

What can trigger sudden onset blurred vision?

While gradual worsening is often associated with blurred vision, there are instances where blurriness can abruptly begin. These situations may be medical emergencies and include:

• Stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA).
• Rapid elevation in blood pressure.
• Hyphema (internal eye bleeding).
• Retinal detachment.
• Concussion.
• Eye and tissue infections.
• Migraine headaches.
• Eye injuries.
• If your vision suddenly becomes blurry and/or you experience sudden vision loss, immediate medical attention is crucial.

CARE AND TREATMENT

How is blurry vision managed?

Treatment for blurry vision depends on its underlying cause. Approaches may involve:

Eyeglasses and contact lenses for addressing blurry vision

These optical aids can effectively treat blurriness arising from refractive errors and other factors, including cataracts.

Medications to manage blurry vision

Your healthcare provider may prescribe medications to treat the underlying condition responsible for your blurry vision. The specific medications will vary based on the underlying disease.

For addressing age-related blurry vision due to presbyopia, a condition causing the need to hold reading material at a distance, eye drops such as pilocarpine hydrochloride (VUITY®) may be recommended. This newly FDA-approved formulation aims to alleviate age-related blurry vision.

Surgical interventions for treating blurry vision

Surgical procedures might be suggested to enhance eyesight, such as cataract removal surgery or LASIK to correct refractive errors.

What can be done at home to alleviate blurry vision?

If your healthcare provider has identified the underlying cause of your blurry vision and initiated treatment for the associated condition, you can consider the following practices to aid blurry vision at home:

• Prioritize adequate rest.
• Avoid allergens, including smoke and dust.
• Wear sunglasses when outdoors in sunlight.
• Use protective eyewear during activities that could endanger your eyes.
• Maintain a nutritious diet supplying the necessary vitamins, minerals, and hydration for your eyes.
• Use lubricating eye drops to relieve dry or irritated eyes.

Can blurry vision be prevented?

Prevention may not always be possible, but you can take steps to manage your risk. This includes adhering to your healthcare provider’s guidance, especially if you have conditions like diabetes. Embracing a healthy lifestyle with a balanced diet and regular physical activity can contribute to overall eye health. Consistent eye exams are also recommended.

WHEN TO SEEK MEDICAL ATTENTION

When should you contact a healthcare provider regarding blurry vision?

If you experience a sudden onset of blurry vision or vision loss, seeking medical attention promptly is essential. This is particularly important if you’ve sustained an injury or if other stroke symptoms, such as difficulty speaking or moving, are present.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can blurry vision lead to dizziness and nausea?

While dizziness, nausea, and blurry vision can occasionally occur together, one doesn’t directly cause the other.

Why does standing up cause blurry vision?

Postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS) is a condition affecting blood flow. When transitioning from lying down to standing up, individuals may experience lightheadedness or faintness. Blurry vision is one of the associated symptoms.

Is dehydration a cause of blurry vision?

Dehydration can contribute to dry eye, a condition where the eyes lack sufficient moisture for lubrication. Dry eye can result in blurry vision.

What distinguishes cloudy vision from blurry vision?

Cloudy or hazy vision also entails a lack of clear visual perception. However, the blurriness isn’t due to objects being out of focus. Cloudy vision is akin to seeing through fog or haze and may share some common causes with blurry vision.

If your vision is cloudy or hazy, squinting won’t enhance your visual clarity.