Blurry vision is among the most common ocular problems people may experience at any age. Though not necessarily serious, it can indicate underlying issues that require treatment from an eye specialist. Below, you'll learn more about the causes of blurred vision and what an eye care professional may do to help.

4 Reasons for Blurry Vision

1. Dry Eye 

Dry eye occurs when tears evaporate too quickly or the eyes do not produce enough aqueous fluid, which is a lubricant that hydrates the eyes. In addition to blurred vision, dry eye may cause stinging, redness, and sensitivity to light. An eye specialist can prescribe drops to reduce inflammation or drugs to increase the production of tears. Alternatively, they may plug the tear ducts to help the eyes retain aqueous fluid and keep them moisturized.  

2. Astigmatism 

An astigmatism is an abnormality in the eye's curvature. Rather than having a round shape, the lens or cornea has an ovular shape similar to an egg. This causes blurry vision at any distance and is typically present from birth. Other symptoms may include eyestrain, headaches, and difficulty seeing at night. Eyeglasses or contacts may counteract the uneven curvature to promote clear vision. An eye specialist might also recommend refractive surgery, which involves using a laser beam to reshape the cornea. 

3. Myopia or Hyperopia 

Myopia is the medical term for nearsightedness, causing objects farther away to appear blurry. Conversely, hyperopia, or farsightedness, causes blurred vision while viewing objects up-close. Both conditions occur due to refractive errors, or the improper refraction of light rays that enter the eye due to abnormalities in the shape of the lens or cornea. Prescription glasses, contacts, or refractive surgery can reduce blurriness and enhance clarity of vision. 

4. Cataracts 

Cataracts occur when the lenses of the eyes become cloudy, resulting in blurred or hazy vision. They typically form when proteins and fibers in the lenses break down, often as a result of aging or injuries. Sensitivity to light and trouble seeing at night are other symptoms associated with this condition. An eye specialist may perform cataracts surgery to remove clouded lenses and replace them with clear artificial lenses to help you see clearly.

If you ever experience blurred vision, contact Walton Eye Care. This eye specialist offers eye exams, cataracts surgery, and treatment for conditions such as dry eye and glaucoma to clients throughout Monroe, GA. Call (770) 267-4561 to book an appointment for an eye exam, and visit the website to learn more about their eye care services to promote ocular health.