Apr 1, 2024 | Dry Eye Syndrome

Can Dry Eyes Cause Blurry Vision?

Have you ever experienced blurry vision that seems to come out of nowhere? It could be a sign of dry eyes. Dry eye is a common condition that happens when your eyes don’t produce enough tears or when your tears evaporate too quickly. This can lead to an unstable tear film, which in turn can cause blurry vision.  

Along with blurry vision, dry eye can cause a range of other symptoms, including redness, irritation, sensitivity to light, and a gritty feeling in your eyes. In this blog post, we will discuss how dry eyes can affect your vision and what treatment options are available to help you find relief.  

How does dry eye lead to blurry vision? 

When there’s not enough moisture on the surface of your eye, it can affect the clarity of your vision. The tear film plays a crucial role in maintaining clear vision by providing a smooth surface for light to pass through. When this tear film is disrupted due to dry eyes, it can lead to fluctuations in vision, causing objects to appear blurry or out of focus. That’s why it’s important to manage dry eye, not just for comfort but also to keep your vision clear.  

How to treat dry eye and blurry vision 

If you’re experiencing blurry vision due to dry eyes, there are several treatment options available to help improve your symptoms. Simple lifestyle changes like taking breaks from screen time, staying hydrated, using a humidifier, and adding more omega-3 fatty acids to your diet can all help minimize dryness and discomfort. Additionally, using artificial tears or lubricating eye drops can provide temporary relief by lubricating the eyes and reducing blurry vision. 

When to see an eye doctor 

If lifestyle changes and artificial tears aren’t providing enough relief, it may be time to see an eye doctor for further evaluation. At Giles Eye Care, our dry eye specialist in Portland, Maine is experienced in diagnosing and treating dry eye. We will perform tests to assess the quantity and quality of your tears, determine what’s causing your symptoms, and suggest personalized treatment options to help you see clearly again.   

In some cases, prescription medications or procedures may be necessary to manage severe cases of dry eye that are causing persistent blurry vision. Our eye doctor will work closely with you to develop a treatment plan that addresses your specific needs and improves both your eye health and overall quality of life. 

Don’t let dry eye continue to impact your vision and daily life. If you’re experiencing blurry vision along with other symptoms of dry eye, such as redness or discomfort, reach out to Giles Eye Care for expert care and support.