Blurred Vision
Alternative Names:
Visual disturbances
Impaired vision
Definition:
Blurred vision occurs when there is a disturbance in the pathway of light from the front of the eye, or the cornea, to the retina in the back of the eye. Blurred vision can be characterized by a loss of sharpness in vision, an inability to see small details, blind spots, or an overall dimness in vision. The condition can occur in one or both eyes and can be caused by a variety of factors, from general eye dryness as a result of medications to serious eye diseases that could lead to permanent vision loss or blindness.
Changes in vision may indicate eye disease, aging, eye trauma, or other conditions such as diabetes or stroke.
Symptoms:
Depending on the cause of the blurred vision, a patient may experience varying symptoms, including:
- Blind spots
- Cloudiness
- Dimness of vision
- Floaters
- Inability to see small details
- Loss of color vision
- Loss of sharpness
- Seeing spots
- Visual halos around lights
Exams/Testing:
Usually an eye exam by a doctor or ophthalmologist is recommended to find the cause of blurred vision, especially if the blurred vision occurs suddenly and without warning. Diagnostic tests that may be performed in cases of blurred vision include:
- Blood pressure test
- Blood sugar test to detect diabetes
- Examination of the pupils
- Intraocular pressure (IOP) testing to detect glaucoma
- Possible CT or MRI brain scan
- Slit lamp examination (inner eye)
- Visual acuity test, usually done with a Snellen chart (eye chart) to test the acuteness or clearness of vision
Outlook/Prognosis:
Most cases of blurred vision will improve with time or with the stopping of certain medications that may be causing the condition. If blurred vision is a result of dry eyes or eye inflammation, eye drops or eye ointment can be prescribed to restore vision and decrease swelling in the eye.
Blurred vision may sometimes require lens correction with glasses or contacts, and laser treatments may be recommended in some cases.
In all cases of blurred vision, a medical professional should evaluate the condition to determine the cause and the treatment plan. Certain underlying health problems such as diabetes, high blood pressure, anemia, or thyroid problems could be causing the vision changes, and these conditions could be dangerous if left untreated.
Causes (specific drugs):
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