Blurred vision occurs when a person's vision is not as sharp as it used to be. Blurred vision is a particularly common eye problem, but it's important to distinguish it from vision loss. While vision loss is long-lasting, benign blurred vision is temporary and returns to normal after a certain time. What causes blurred vision? When should you consult an eye specialist? Keep on reading to learn more about how to treat blurred vision.
Possible causes of blurred vision
There are a wide variety of causes of blurred vision. Here, we present the main ones.
Vision problems
The most common causes of blurred vision are myopia, hyperopia and astigmatism. After age 65, blurred vision is also frequently caused by the development of cataracts.
But rest assured, these vision problems can easily be corrected with corrective lenses, contact lenses or eye surgery.
Dry eyes
Dry eyes can affect your eyes, causing blurred, shifting vision. In most cases, lubricating eye drops are all you need to soothe your eyes and restore vision.
In the case of chronic dry eye, eye specialists may prescribe medication or punctal plugs to keep your eyes well-lubricated.
Eye care products and medicine
Some eye drops and medications, such as antihistamines for allergies, can cause blurred vision.
However, this blurred vision is temporary, as the effects of the products wear off over time. Don't hesitate to speak to your optometrist if the problem persists.
Contact lenses are worn beyond the prescribed period
Wearing your contact lenses for longer than prescribed leads to the accumulation of proteins and debris under the lenses. This can lead to blurred vision.
Fatigue and sudden blurred vision
Blurred vision is sometimes caused by severe fatigue. Sleep is important for your eyes because when you lack it, your eyes can suffer side effects:
- Temporary spots in your field of vision
- Blurry eyes
- Floaters
- Dry eyes
Pregnancy and blurred vision
Hormonal changes during pregnancy are sometimes responsible for vision changes. It can happen, for example:
- Blurred vision
- Temporary double vision (diplopia)
- Dry eyes lead to blurred vision
Sometimes, vision problems during pregnancy can be a sign of gestational diabetes or high blood pressure. That's why it's important to report any changes in your vision to your optometrist when you're pregnant.
Sudden blurred vision and headache
Blurred vision is sometimes a warning sign of migraine or ocular migraine. Blurred vision may be intermittent or last for several hours; however, it is harmless and temporary.
Eye surgery
After a cataract, laser or other eye surgery, it's normal to experience blurred vision. It may take several days or weeks for your vision to become clearer and more stable. In all cases, you will be monitored by an eye care professional before, during and after your operation.
Blurred vision: When should you seek medical advice?
Although blurred vision is usually a benign condition, there are warning signs that should alert you. The best thing to do is consult an eye specialist or doctor as soon as possible.
Make an appointment with an optometrist as soon as possible:
- If your vision is suddenly out of focus in one eye or if your vision becomes blurred
- If you experience severe vision loss
- If you experience eye pain
- If your field of vision seems narrowed or if certain areas remain blind
- If you have blurred vision, diabetes, high blood pressure or a problem with your immune system
If your vision is blurred, but you don't show any warning signs, you can wait a week. If your vision doesn't return to normal, it's time to consult an eye specialist.
