What Causes Sudden Blurry Vision?
If you’ve recently noticed fuzzy or foggy vision in one or both of your eyes, you may find yourself wondering what causes sudden blurry vision and whether it could be a sign of something serious.
Blurry vision can have many causes, ranging from refractive errors like nearsightedness or farsightedness to more serious conditions like cataracts or even strokes. In some cases, sudden blurry vision can be a sign of an eye injury or infection. Trauma to the eye such as a blow to the head or face can cause blurred vision, and a scratched cornea may also lead to blurry vision.
There are countless causes of blurry vision, and it can feel overwhelming to try to determine what is causing yours. In this article, we’ll explore some of the most common causes, advise on how to get rid of blurry vision, and discuss when you should seek medical help.
Common causes of blurry vision
It’s important to seek medical attention as soon as possible if you experience sudden changes in your vision. Your doctor can identify the cause of your blurred vision and provide treatment options that will help restore your vision.
The most common causes of blurry vision include:
1. Refractive errors
The most common cause of blurred vision is refractive error, which occurs when the eye fails to focus light properly to produce a clear image on the retina. This can be caused by nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia), or astigmatism. All three of these conditions can be corrected with eyeglasses, contact lenses, or refractive surgery.
2. Eye strain
Staring at a computer screen for long periods of time can cause eye strain and blurred vision. To reduce this type of blurry vision, give your eyes regular breaks from screens and make sure you’re following the 20-20-20 rule (every 20 minutes take a break for 20 seconds and look at something that is 20 feet away).
3. Presbyopia
As we age, our eyes may become less flexible and unable to focus on objects close up, resulting in blurriness when reading or doing other tasks requiring near vision.
Symptoms of presbyopia include:
- Difficulty reading
- Needing brighter lights to read
- Headaches after reading for long periods of time
- Holding books or other objects far away in order to focus on them
Reading glasses are often the best option to improve presbyopic blurry vision.
4. Cataracts
A cataract is a cloudy area in the lens of the eye that can cause blurry vision. Cataracts are more common as you age and typically require surgery to remove them and restore your vision.
Symptoms of cataracts include:
- Blurred, cloudy, or dim vision
- Difficulty seeing at night
- Glare from lights
- Double vision in one eye
- Fading or yellowing of colors
If you are looking for cataract surgery in Houston, you’ll want to make sure you are working with a trusted, experienced ophthalmologist.
Keep reading: What is the first sign of cataracts?
5. Diabetes or high blood sugar
Diabetic retinopathy is a complication of diabetes that damages the blood vessels in the back of your eyes, leading to reduced vision or even blindness if left untreated.
Symptoms of diabetic retinopathy include:
- Blurry vision
- Poor night vision
- Difficulty distinguishing colors
- Halos around lights
If you have diabetes, it’s important to make sure your blood sugar is controlled and to have regular comprehensive eye exams so that any retinopathy can be detected and treated early.
6. Angle-closure glaucoma
Angle-closure glaucoma is a type of glaucoma that occurs when the drainage angle in the eye becomes blocked, leading to a build-up of pressure in the eye. This pressure can cause blurred vision and, if left untreated, serious damage to the optic nerve.
Symptoms of angle-closure glaucoma:
- Blurred vision and/or blind spots
- Eye pain or redness
- Severe headache
- Nausea and vomiting
- Seeing halos around lights
Treatment typically involves prescription medications or laser surgery for glaucoma to reduce intraocular pressure. To know which course of treatment is right for you, schedule an appointment with a glaucoma specialist in Houston.
Continue reading: Why are my eyes red?
7. High blood pressure
High blood pressure can cause a condition called hypertensive retinopathy which can cause damage to the small vessels in the back of your eyes. This can lead to reduced vision or even blindness if left untreated.
Symptoms of hypertensive retinopathy include:
- Blurred vision
- Flashes of light in your peripheral vision
- Halos around lights
- Reduced peripheral vision
Managing high blood pressure through lifestyle changes and medications is the best way to reduce the risk of developing this condition.
8. Retinal detachment
This occurs when the retina separates from its attachment to the back of the eye, leading to blurred or distorted vision.
Symptoms of retinal detachment include:
- Flashes of light or floaters in your vision
- Blurry or distorted vision
- A “curtain” over part of your field of view
Surgery is often required to reattach the retina and restore vision so if you’re suffering from sudden blurry vision in one eye, you’ll want to make sure you contact a retina specialist in Houston immediately. If left untreated, retinal detachment can cause permanent vision loss.
9. Stroke
Sudden, acute vision changes can be a sign of a stroke, especially if you are only experiencing sudden blurry vision in one eye. Stroke symptoms are treatable if caught early on so if you’re experiencing any sudden blurry vision or other signs of a stroke, seek medical help right away.
Other symptoms of a stroke include:
- Slurred speech
- Difficulty speaking or understanding speech
- Weakness in the face, arms, or legs
- Loss of balance or coordination
- Numbness in the face, arm, or leg
10. Wet macular degeneration
Wet macular degeneration is an age-related condition that affects central vision. It is caused by abnormal blood vessels in the back of the eye that leak fluid and cause blurriness.
Symptoms of wet macular degeneration include:
- Blurred or distorted central vision
- Loss of color perception
- Difficulty seeing details
- Difficulty reading
Treatment for wet macular degeneration typically involves medication injections into the eye to help reduce fluid leakage and preserve vision. It’s important to seek medical attention as soon as possible if you experience sudden changes in your vision.
When to seek medical help for blurry vision from Eye Center of Texas
Now that we’ve covered what causes sudden blurry vision, it’s good to know when to seek help. If you notice sudden blurry vision in both eyes or one eye and find yourself searching for an answer to the question, “Why is my vision blurry all of a sudden?” it’s important to seek medical help right away. Depending on the underlying cause, treatment, lifestyle changes, or eyeglasses are usually necessary to preserve vision.
At Eye Center of Texas, our team of experienced ophthalmologists will work with you to diagnose the cause of your blurry vision and develop a personalized treatment plan to restore your vision. With six locations including offices in Houston, Pasadena, Sugar Land, Clear Lake, Katy, and The Woodlands, we are confident that we can offer you the care you need when you need it most.
To learn more about our options for clearer vision, schedule a consultation with us today.
More Helpful Articles by Eye Center of Texas:
- Choosing a Trusted LASIK Surgeon in Texas
- What Causes Cataracts and How to Fight Them
- What to Expect During EVO ICL Recovery
- Corneal Cross-Linking Success Rate
- Bifocal LASIK: Can LASIK Make You Bifocal?
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Do I Need Reading Glasses?
If you’ve ever wondered, “do I need reading glasses?” chances are you may be having some problems with your vision –– and trust us, you are not alone. You likely need reading glasses if you find yourself holding things out in front of you in order to read them, getting headaches while reading, or needing more light to see your material.
So, how can you tell if you really need reading glasses? We may have the answers you’re looking for. The eye experts at Eye Center of Texas are here to explain the function of reading glasses and how to tell if you need them.
What are reading glasses used for?
As we age, our eyes age with us. Specifically, your eyes show their age by becoming less flexible. This loss of flexibility keeps your eyes from making the small adjustments needed to let in the right amount of light at the right angle when you’re looking at objects near you. This phenomenon is called presbyopia or “near vision.” It differs from hyperopia (or being farsighted) in that the presbyopia is age-related, while you are typically born with hyperopia.
Reading glasses help to compensate for the vision that is lost or allow you to see things close up. Reading glasses in particular are made in a convex or curved outward shape to help near objects to look clearer, so you will only need to wear them while reading.
Do glasses make your eyes worse? The idea that wearing reading glasses makes your vision weaker is false. Unless you are wearing the wrong type of readers such as a prescription that is too high, reading glasses should help with your vision problems, not contribute to them.
How do I know if I need reading glasses? Here are 4 ways to tell.
1. You are 40 years old or older
As we mentioned earlier, our eyes age with us. After they turn 40, it is very common for individuals with perfect vision to begin to see a decline in their vision. Even if you have always thought that you don’t need reading glasses, it is still a smart choice to see an eye doctor regularly (at least once every two years) after you turn 40 years old. Regular checkups will help you and your doctor stay on top of your eye health and monitor for issues such as cataracts, glaucoma, and macular degeneration.
2. You have to hold things out in front of you in order to read them
Think back to when you were a child –– do you remember seeing your grandparents squint and hold a newspaper or a book far away from their face when they tried to read something?
Presbyopia negatively affects your near vision. So while it sounds counterintuitive, it’s easier for people with presbyopia to read smaller print when it’s held further away from their faces. Needing to hold reading material farther out in front of you is a strong indication that you may need reading glasses.
3. You need more light to complete tasks
One question we ask patients who ask us, “how do I know if I need reading glasses?” is this: How often do you find yourself wanting more light in a room? As your eyes age, they may require more light for you to see well — another sign that your near vision might improve with the help of readers. Though this is not as obvious as the other possible reasons, it’s one that shouldn’t be overlooked.
4. You struggle with weary, tired, or strained eyes
The act of reading should never cause you pain. If you begin to notice how your eyes get tired or heavy after reading, you could need reading glasses. If you’re unable to get through a chapter of a book without feeling eye strain or nursing frequent headaches, your eyes are likely having to overcompensate to make up for the negative effects of presbyopia. Reading should be enjoyable, not painful. Having reading glasses can help reduce or eliminate eye pain as you read.
I might need reading glasses. What are my next steps?
If you relate to any of the four categories above, reading glasses may be a good investment for you. Your first step should be to schedule a comprehensive eye exam with an optometrist. Through this exam, the doctor will be able to designate the reading glass strength and provide you with an accurate prescription. The doctor will also advise you on when to wear reading glasses and other next steps.
Should I see an optometrist or an ophthalmologist? If you are searching for more long-term solutions on how to treat your near-sightedness, seeing an ophthalmologist could be beneficial. During that consultation, the ophthalmologist may be able to explore other options including LASIK in Houston for a more permanent solution to your vision problems.
Eye Center of Texas Provides Long-Term Solutions for Vision Loss
If you’ve ever asked the question, “Do I need reading glasses?” the answer might be yes. However, many patients see glasses and contacts as more of a hassle than an end-all solution. Though reading glasses can be a good temporary solution, they are just that: temporary. Procedures like cataract surgery and LASIK are long-term solutions for vision loss.
If the idea of corrective surgery is more appealing to you, Eye Center of Texas can provide you with the best cataract surgeon to achieve long-lasting results. To speak with an eye specialist today about your vision options, contact us online to schedule an appointment.
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April is National Women’s Eye Health and Safety Month
Prevent Blindness America designated April as National Women’s Eye Health and Safety Month. But why do we need a month dedicated to women’s eye health? Many people are surprised to discover that women make up the majority of cases of visual impairment and eye diseases around the world.
For example, according to a study performed by the National Eye Institute (NIH), women constitute 61% of glaucoma and cataract patients, 65% of age-related macular degeneration cases, and 66% of blind patients in North America.
Prevent Blindness America’s landmark study, The Future of Vision: Forecasting the Prevalence and Costs of Vision Problems, found similar results, stating that… “Women make up the majority of the 4.4 million Americans age 40 and older who are visually impaired or blind. More women than men have age-related macular degeneration, cataracts, and glaucoma.”
For more information on these common vision problems, visit the following articles:
- What is Macular Degeneration
- Understanding Dry Eye Syndrome
- Cataract Surgery in Houston
- Presbyopia Prevention
Fortunately, many of the eye health issues women face can be avoided, delayed, and managed by proactive prevention. That’s why Eye Center of Texas is joining the movement to help spread awareness of women’s eye health issues during National Women’s Eye Health and Safety Month. Discover the causes, risk factors, and prevention strategies for vision problems experienced by women.
Why are women more likely to experience vision problems and blindness?
There are several reasons why women are more likely to experience issues with eye health, some of which are sociological and some of which are biological. These are the top 3 reasons.
1. Women tend to live longer than men
On average, women in the United States live 5 years longer than men, with similar trends occurring across the globe. Because many vision problems and eye diseases are age-related, the fact that women live longer than men makes them more susceptible to experiencing degenerative vision loss via cataracts, diabetic retinopathy, macular degeneration, etc.
2. Many women around the world have limited access to quality healthcare
Women, especially elderly women, under- or uninsured women, women living in poverty, and single mothers all typically face reduced access to quality, affordable, and regular healthcare options. Since one of the best ways to reduce eye problems is early and regular testing, this issue also contributes to the prominence of eye diseases in women. Some have also argued that because women are the “caregivers” in the family, they are more likely to downplay their own health issues in order to focus on helping others.
3. Women have more eye health risk factors, and some diseases are simply more prevalent among women
Women experience dramatic major hormone changes during and after pregnancy and/or during and after menopause. These changes increase the susceptibility of many women to conditions such as dry eye syndrome, glaucoma, worsening refractive errors, retinal detachment, and diabetic retinopathy. Women are also at higher risk for having autoimmune diseases that affect vision, including Sjӧgren’s syndrome, lupus, hyperthyroidism, rheumatoid arthritis, and multiple sclerosis,
4. Ways to support women’s eye health and prevent vision loss
As mentioned previously, one of the best ways women can stay on top of their eye health during National Eye Health and Safety Month and beyond is to practice preventative tactics. These include but are not limited to:
- Starting at age 40, get a regular eye exam. For most folks, that means visiting the eye doctor at least when they turn 40 and then every two years after that. If you have an eye condition, you may need to see your eye doctor more frequently. Should you notice your vision deteriorating rapidly, that’s a sign you need to visit your ophthalmologist ASAP.
- Quit smoking. Smoking and second-hand smoke have been shown to be incredibly detrimental to eye health again and again, especially with regard to cataracts and age-related macular degeneration, and dry eyes.
- Know your family’s eye health history. Refraction errors, glaucoma, age-related macular degeneration, cataracts, lazy eye, and issues with color vision can all be passed down in the family. If you know that one or more of your family members struggles with eye health issues, tell your eye doctor.
- Eat a healthy diet. Nuts, citrus fruit, dark and leafy greens, and basically all other vegetables are good not just for your eyesight, but for your overall health. If, for whatever reason, you can’t work these into your diet, you can consider taking supplements. For more information, read our recent article on the best foods for eye health.
- Wear eye protection. Keep a pair of sunglasses that block sufficient UV rays by the door you use to leave your home, in your car, with your biking gear, and/or in your purse. Wide-brimmed hats can also help limit sun exposure to your face and eyes.
- Practice good makeup hygiene. Wash your hands before applying and removing makeup, remove your eye makeup every night before sleep, keep your applicators clean, and do not share your eye makeup with others. If possible, avoid using lotions with strong chemicals around your eyes, including retinol creams.
- Practice good contact lens hygiene. Keep your contact prescription up to date and do not leave your contact lenses in longer than is recommended. Should your contact lenses come into contact with water, replace them as soon as possible; doing so can help prevent acanthamoeba keratitis, an eye disease caused by the amoeba Acanthamoeba that lives in water. Do not swap your contact lenses with others, and avoid wearing cosmetic contact lenses, especially if they are being sold without a prescription by a non-professional.
- Get your eyes checked directly before, during, and after pregnancy. Many hormone changes that can affect eye health occur during pregnancy. Women who have diabetes are especially encouraged to have their vision checked regularly during this time.
- Support organizations and initiatives such as the Schepen Eye Institute’s and NHI’s Women’s Eye Health.org (http://www.w-e-h.org/) which help to spread awareness regarding this topic.
Eye Center of Texas Supports Women’s Eye Health
Eye Center of Texas is proud to help the women of Houston and the greater Houston area to maintain their eye health, restore their vision, and continue to see their way clearly in life.
While we are most well-known for providing from some of the best LASIK in Houston our nationally-recognized team has helped thousands of women recover from and manage eye health issues and diseases such as glaucoma, cataracts, macular degeneration, and more.
From preventative care to advanced treatment options, Eye Center of Texas is here for you and your eye health needs. Put your vision in the hands of some of Houston’s most trusted ophthalmologists. Request a free LASIK consultation at 713-395-1515, a regular appointment at 713-797-1010, or contact us online today.
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Be My LASIK Valentine
Valentine’s Day 2016 is this Sunday…and if your sweetheart wears glasses and/or contacts, how about giving the gift of better sight? LASIK may not be the most romantic gift, but unlike chocolate or flowers the gift of sight will last a lifetime! Think about it, you could look into your sweetheart’s eyes – without looking through glasses!
All-Laser LASIK at Eye Center of Texas is a state-of-the-art method of laser vision correction that leaves the vast majority seeing 20/20 or better. LASIK is quick, simple and relatively painless solution to correct refractive errors such as nearsightedness or farsightedness, with or without astigmatism.
LASIK Gift Certificates are available by calling 713-395-1515 (ask for Steve or Kathy).
They will be happy to help create the perfect Valentine’s Day LASIK Certificate!
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Give the Gift of Sight with LASIK
Why not give a gift that will last for years? Put LASIK under the Christmas tree this year!
All-Laser LASIK at Eye Center of Texas is a state-of-the-art method of laser vision correction that leaves the vast majority seeing 20/20 or better. LASIK is quick, simple and relatively painless solution to correct refractive errors such as nearsightedness or farsightedness, with or without astigmatism.
You may be thinking that LASIK is too extravagant a gift. But with 0% LASIK financing options available, this becomes a very affordable option.
Make it a Christmas they’ll always remember. Call us at 713-797-1010.
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ECT Storm Updates
Eye Center of Texas will be closed today, Tuesday, June 16, 2015 due to the weather. We care about all our patients and staff members and want everyone to be safe. If you have an appointment at any of our clinics, we will call you and reschedule your appointment. Thank you in advance for your understanding and cooperation.
Please stay home…be safe and don’t take any chances.
Sincerely,
Eye Center of Texas Doctors
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Technology Matters
Because we value our commitment to our patients we utilize only state-of-the-art equipment based on its outstanding performance, quality, track record and safety features.
LASIK – VISX S4 Excimer Laser: Ultra-precise correction of nearsightedness, farsightedness and/or astigmatism allowing patients to have successful LASIK outcomes and reduces night vision issues.
Cataract Surgery – LenSx Laser: Traditional cataract surgery produces excellent outcomes. However, until recently the major steps of cataract surgery were done using manual techniques. Now we are able to offer our patients the latest technology which has set the new standard for safety and precision in cataract surgery – Laser Cataract Surgery. The LenSx laser provides our patients with computer-controlled precision by automating some of the most challenging steps of refractive cataract surgery.
Cataract Surgery – ORA (Optiwave Refractie Analysis): This extremely advanced technology allows the surgeon to take real-time measurements, make adjustments to lens powers, astigmatism correction and IOL placement during cataract surgery.
Dr. Mark L. Mayo and Dr. Edward C. Wade of the Eye Center of Texas have help thousands of patient obtain better vision. To find out more about the Eye Center of Texas and our excellent team of doctors and staff, contact us at 713-797-1010.
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ALL TREAT – NO TRICK
Think how much easier and more fun it would be to do whatever you love to do without the hassles of glasses and contacts. Whether you have nearsightedness, farsightedness or astigmatism, there’s a good chance you’re a candidate for LASIK. Call us today 713-797-1010
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Flex Account – Loose It Or Lose It!
It’s that time of year again! Time to Flex your way to savings.
A Flexible Spending Account (often called an FSA, flex plan, flex account, flexible spending arrangement, or cafeteria plan) is an employer-sponsored benefit that allows participants to pay for qualified medical or health care-related expenses on a pre-tax basis.
Benefits of a flexible spending account include reduced income taxes and the opportunity to use the benefits to save hundreds or thousand of dollars a year on approved expenses.
We know that the specifics of using your FSA account can get confusing. Give us a shout and we will gladly show you how to use your account for LASIK.
Schedule your free LASIK evaluation today, 713-395-1515
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Happy JulEYE – Dry Eye Awareness Month
Dry Eye signs and symptoms, which usually affect both eyes, may include:
- A stinging, burning or scratchy sensation in your eyes
- Stringy mucus in or around your eyes
- Increased eye irritation from smoke or wind
- Eye fatigue
- Sensitivity to light
- Eye redness
- A sensation of having something in your eyes
- Difficulty wearing contact lenses
- Periods of excessive tearing
- Blurred vision, often worsening at the end of the day or after focusing for a prolonged period.
- Poor tear quality
- Decreased tear production
- Older than 50
- Postmenopausal women
- Eyelid problems (Blinking spreads a continuous thin film of tears across the surface of your eyes. If you have an eyelid problem that makes it difficult to blink, tears may not be spread across your eye adequately or your tears may evaporate too quickly, causing dry eyes).
- Medications
- Medical Conditions (such as diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, scleroderma and thyroid disorders).
- LASIK surgery
- Wind
- Dry air
- Tasks that require enough concentration that you blink less often, such as working at a computer, driving or reading.
Tests used to determine the cause of your dry eyes may include:
- A comprehensive eye exam. An eye exam that includes a complete history of your overall health and your eye health can help your doctor diagnose the cause of your dry eyes.
- Measuring the volume of your tears. Your doctor may measure your tear production. In this test, blotting strips of paper are placed under your lower eyelids. After five minutes your doctor measures the amount of strip soaked by your tears.
- Determining the quality of your tears. Other tests use special dyes in eye drops to determine the surface condition of your eyes. Your doctor looks for staining patterns on the corneas and measures how long it takes before your tears evaporate.
Because doctor appointments can be brief, and because there’s often a lot of ground to cover, it’s a good idea to be well prepared for your appointment.
- Write down any symptoms you’re experiencing, including any that may seem unrelated to the reason for which you scheduled the appointment.
- Write down key personal information, including any recent life changes.
- Make a list of all medications, vitamins or supplements that you’re taking.
What you can do in the meantime:
*To relieve your signs and symptoms while you wait for your appointment, try over-the-counter eye drops. Look for lubricating eye drops and avoid those that reduce redness in the eyes. Eye drops that reduce eye redness can cause additional eye irritation.
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Our Locations
Houston/Bellaire
6565 W. Loop S., Suite 650Bellaire, TX 77401
Medical Office:
713-797-1010
Medical Fax:
713-357-7276
LASIK/Near Vision:
Office: 713-395-1515
Fax: 713-357-7278
Pasadena
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Medical Office:
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Medical Fax:
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Sugar Land
15400 S.W. Freeway, Suite 301Sugar Land, TX 77478
Medical Office:
281-277-1010
Medical Fax:
281-277-4504
Clear Lake
455 E. Medical Center Blvd., Suite 110Webster, TX 77598
Medical Office:
281-332-1397
Medical Fax:
281-282-9152
Katy
Greenhouse Medical Plaza2051 Greenhouse Road, Suite 110
Houston, TX 77084
Medical Office:
713-797-1010
Medical Fax:
713-357-7276
The Woodlands/Conroe
100 Medical Center Blvd., Suite 118Conroe, TX 77304
Medical Office:
713-797-1010
Medical Fax:
936-647-1620
