If your vision keeps getting blurry, it can be caused by a wide range of factors, from simple issues like eye strain or needing new glasses to more serious medical conditions that require prompt attention. Understanding why your vision blurs and when to seek help is important for protecting your eyesight and overall health.
One of the most common reasons for blurry vision is **refractive errors**. These occur when the shape of your eye prevents light from focusing correctly on the retina, the light-sensitive layer at the back of your eye. The main types of refractive errors are myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), astigmatism (irregular curvature of the cornea or lens), and presbyopia (age-related difficulty focusing on close objects). These conditions cause blurred or distorted vision at various distances and can usually be corrected with glasses, contact lenses, or refractive surgery[1][3][6].
**Dry eyes** are another frequent cause of blurry vision. When your eyes do not produce enough tears or the tears evaporate too quickly, your vision can become temporarily blurred. Dry eyes can also cause irritation, redness, and a gritty feeling. Factors contributing to dry eyes include aging, certain medications, autoimmune diseases, and environmental conditions like dry air. Managing dry eyes often involves using artificial tears, lifestyle changes, or medical treatments prescribed by an eye care professional[1][4].
**Digital eye strain**, also known as Computer Vision Syndrome, results from prolonged use of screens such as computers, smartphones, or tablets. Staring at screens for long periods without breaks causes eye muscles to become overworked, leading to blurred vision, headaches, and eye discomfort. Adjusting screen settings, taking regular breaks, and ensuring proper lighting can help reduce symptoms[1][4][8].
More serious causes of blurry vision include **cataracts**, which are clouding of the eye’s natural lens. Cataracts develop slowly, often in people over 60, and cause vision to become dim, yellowed, or hazy. Sensitivity to light and needing brighter light to read are common early signs. Cataracts can be treated effectively with surgery to restore clear vision[1][3].
Blurry vision can also be a warning sign of **diabetes**. High blood sugar levels affect the fluid balance in the lens of the eye, causing temporary changes in focus and intermittent blurriness. Over time, diabetes can damage the blood vessels in the retina, leading to diabetic retinopathy, a serious condition that can cause permanent vision loss if untreated. If blurry vision occurs alongside symptoms like frequent thirst, fatigue, or weight changes, it is important to see a doctor and an eye specialist promptly[1][5][7].
Sudden blurry vision in both eyes can indicate urgent medical conditions such as **optic neuritis**, which is inflammation of the optic nerve. This condition can cause vision to become blurred or even lost temporarily and is often associated with multiple sclerosis or infections. Immediate evaluation by a healthcare professional is necessary to diagnose and manage optic neuritis[2][9].
Other causes of sudden blurry vision include disruptions in the brain’s visual processing areas, hypertensive or diabetic retinopathy, retinal detachment, or vitreous hemorrhage. Symptoms like flashes of light, floaters (small spots or cobweb-like shapes drifting in your vision), or a sudden increase in blurry vision require urgent eye examination to prevent permanent damage[2][7].
Eye pain or headaches accompanying blurry vision may result from eye strain, dry eyes, or wearing an outdated glasses prescription. Incorrect prescriptions force your eyes to work harder, causing fatigue, blurred vision, and headaches. Regular eye exams ensure your prescription is up to date and help prevent these symptoms[4].
If you experience persistent blurry vision, sudden changes in vision, or blurry vision with other symptoms such as eye pain, flashes, floaters, or headaches, it is important to seek professional eye care immediately. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent vision loss and address underlying health issues effectively.
Sources:
[1] https://www.eye-deology.com/fyeyes/top-causes-of-blurry-vision
[2] https://armadale-eye.com.au/sudden-blurry-vision-in-both-eyes/
[3] https://www.gregoryrjackson.com/the-4-most-common-eye-problems-what-causes-vision-to-worsen/
[4] https://www.dellaportaeyecare.com/what-causes-pain-behind-the-eye-and-headache.html
[5] https://www.exceleyecarenc.com/did-you-know-blurry-vision-may-signal-diabetes/
[6] https://www.poudrevalleyeyecare.com/blog/why-is-my-vision-blurry-astigmatism-treatment-guide/
[7] https://eyesindisguise.com/post/Flashes-Floaters-Sudden-Blurry-Vision
[8] https://smart.dhgate.com/why-is-my-vision-blurry-common-causes-when-to-see-a-doctor/
[9] https://www.uofmhealth.org/our-care/specialties-services/optic-neuritis
