Blurred vision can be more than just a minor inconvenience. For many people, it’s the first sign that something may be off with their eyes, health, or even stress levels. Whether it’s temporary or persistent, what causes blurred vision depends on a number of factors that can range from mild to serious.

This guide explores both common and lesser-known blurred vision causes, so you can better understand the warning signs. Knowing when to take action could help protect your eye health and overall wellness.

Most Common Reason for Blurred Vision

One of the major causes of blurred vision is a refractive error. These include:

• Nearsightedness (myopia)
• Farsightedness (hyperopia)
• Astigmatism
• Presbyopia (age-related focus loss)

These eye problems occur when the shape of your eye prevents light from focusing directly on the retina. People often notice that they need to squint or hold reading materials farther away, especially if presbyopia is involved.

Glasses or contact lenses typically correct these issues easily, but left untreated, they can cause eyestrain and headaches.

When to Be Concerned

If you experience sudden blurred vision, especially in one eye or both, it may indicate a more serious underlying condition. This can be caused by:

• A detached retina
• Stroke or transient ischemic attack (mini-stroke)
• Optic neuritis (linked to multiple sclerosis)
• Sudden spike in blood sugar for people with diabetes

If this happens without warning and doesn’t go away quickly, it’s important to seek medical care immediately. Delayed treatment could result in permanent vision loss or signal other critical health issues.

Dry Eyes and Digital Eye Strain

We spend hours in front of screens, leading to what is known as computer vision syndrome. Staring at screens reduces blinking, which leads to dry eyes and, in turn, blurry vision.

You might notice that your vision gets worse as the day progresses, especially after long periods of screen time. Using lubricating drops and taking breaks can help prevent these symptoms.

Blurry Vision and Headache Related?

Some people notice a headache and blurry vision showing up together. This could be a symptom of:

• Migraine with aura
• Tension headache leading to eye strain
• Cluster headaches
• High blood pressure

If your vision blurs right before or during a headache, especially with light sensitivity or nausea, you may be dealing with a migraine. In rare cases, blurred vision and headache may indicate acute angle-closure glaucoma, which typically presents with sudden eye pain, halos around lights, nausea, and rapid vision loss. This is a medical emergency requiring immediate treatment. 

Underlying Medical Conditions 

A variety of medical conditions not directly related to the eyes can lead to blurred vision. For instance:

• Diabetes can cause diabetic retinopathy
• High blood pressure (hypertension) can impair blood vessels in the retina
• Multiple sclerosis often triggers inflammation of the optic nerve
• Thyroid disorders may affect the muscles around the eyes

If you have any of these conditions and start noticing vision changes, inform your healthcare provider right away. Managing the root condition often improves or prevents worsening of your eyesight.

Can Anxiety Cause Blurred Vision?

Yes. During episodes of high stress or panic attacks, your body releases adrenaline, which can alter how your eyes respond to light.

This can cause brief visual disturbances, including blurriness, floaters, or tunnel vision. While it’s typically temporary, if it becomes frequent, it’s worth discussing with both a medical doctor and a mental health professional.

Medication Side Effects

Certain medications may impact vision as a side effect. These include:

• Antihistamines
• Antidepressants
• Blood pressure medication
• Hormonal therapies

Always read your medication’s side effect list. If vision problems begin after starting a new drug, consult your doctor to rule out more serious interactions.

Age-Related Eye Problems

As we age, our eyes naturally change. Conditions like cataracts, age-related macular degeneration (AMD), and glaucoma often begin with mild vision blurriness. These eye problems can progress slowly, so routine eye exams are key for early detection.

Some signs to watch out for include:

• Difficulty seeing at night
• Halos around lights
• Fading or yellowing of colors

Early management through medications, surgeries, or lifestyle changes can slow down or prevent vision loss.

Let’s Prioritize Your Eye Health

If you’ve noticed changes in your vision or are wondering what might be causing blurred sight, it’s important to pay attention to these signs. Early consultation can make a difference in your long-term eye health. Consider scheduling a comprehensive eye exam online. Speaking with a specialist through telehealth can provide you with the insights you need, all from the comfort of your home.

Visit our telehealth services for eye care to get started.

Takeaways

Blurred vision should never be ignored, especially if it appears suddenly, gets worse over time, or comes with other symptoms like pain or headaches. Understanding what causes blurred vision helps you take the right steps, whether it’s changing your screen habits, managing a health condition, or getting a proper eye exam.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do I know if blurred vision is serious?

If it comes on suddenly, affects only one eye, or is accompanied by other symptoms like pain, dizziness, or speech issues, seek immediate medical care.

Why is my vision blurry right after waking up?

Blurry vision right after waking up can occur due to dry eyes from sleeping or reduced tear production during the night.

Can dehydration cause blurry vision?

Yes, when your body lacks proper hydration, your eyes can become dry and irritated, potentially leading to temporary blurriness. 

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Medically Reviewed By: Ma. Lalaine Cheng