Blurred Vision. Causes and Treatment

If you have mild blurry vision that comes and goes it could be something simple as tiredness, eye strain or too much exposure to sunlight. These are uncomplicated things that can be solved by simply wearing glasses in the sun, not being on a screen such as a phone or a computer for too long or having a good night’s sleep.

However, a sudden or continuous change in vision such as blurred vision, double vision or diminished vision could be a sign of serious eye disease or health problems and should be checked.

Causes and Treatments

There are various health conditions of the eye that can cause blurred vision and most of them are small and can be treated effectively.

Myopia or Hyperopia – along with blurry vision symptoms can include eyestrain, headaches, and squinting. Treatment for both can include glasses and/or contact lenses.

Astigmatism – is a type of refractive error usually caused by an irregularly shaped cornea. Treatment includes glasses, contact lenses, or refractive surgery.

Presbyopia – is a normal age-related vision problem for people over 40. Similar to Myopia or Hyperopia but is age-related. Treatment includes progressive lenses, multifocal contact lenses, bifocals and reading glasses.  In some cases,  laser treatment can be performed.

Dry eyes – Dry eyes can affect your vision in numerous ways including variable blurred vision. Treatments can include artificial tears and, in some cases, prescribed medication.

Pregnancy – a common side effect of pregnancy, blurred vision can be accompanied by double vision due to hormonal changes. These instances should be reported to opticians, whilst it isn’t dangerous, it can be a sign of underlying health conditions in mums to be.

Medical Causes and Treatments

There can be certain aspects of our health that can cause blurry vision, and these can be connected to wearing glasses/contact lenses or using drops.

Ocular migraines or migraine headaches – although harmless and temporary, it can cause other problems such as flickering lights and visible patterns. Treatment recommends removing the glasses and allowing your eyes to rest so avoid screens and harsh light.

Eye drops and medication – certain eye drops containing preservatives can cause irritation and blurry vision. Along with some medication such as allergy pills. Treatment would be speaking to an optometrist or doctor and seeing if your medication is causing this issue.

Over-wearing contact lenses – if you wear disposable lenses for longer than the recommended time frame, you can cause eye irritation and blurred vision. Treatment would be to wear them for the recommended time and if you have the symptoms and have worn them for too long then see your Optician or Doctor

It’s a Serious Problem!

Although many eye problems are small and can be easily fixed, there are more complex and serious eye problems that can be a side effect of another help condition or a sign of a more serious health condition starting.

Even though it is important at any age to get regular eye exams, it is more important than when you get to 40 you need to get regular eye exams too, as they can deteriorate more due to age and age-related health conditions.

Cataracts – Cataracts are often linked to blurred vision and can sometimes develop quickly. Treatment is a procedure to replace the crystalline lens

Glaucoma – blurred or tunnel vision is a symptom of this and without treatment with medication, vision loss will continue.

Diabetic retinopathy – a sight-threatening condition that damages the retina of the eye, linked to those with diabetes. It’s important to keep blood sugar levels under control and have diabetic eye screening every 12 months

Book your test now!

If you feel concerned about anything you may have read today, get your eyes checked.

To book an appointment in one of our 17 Harrold’s stores then click here!