Can Dry Eyes Cause Blurry Vision?
August 3, 2023 | by Yashaswi Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's
Yes, dry eyes can cause blurry vision. When your eyes are not adequately lubricated with tears, it can lead to a condition known as dry eye syndrome or dry eye disease. This occurs when your eyes are unable to produce enough tears or when the tears evaporate too quickly.
When your eyes are dry, the smooth and continuous surface of the tear film is disrupted, leading to irregularities in the way light enters the eye. This can cause light to scatter rather than focusing precisely on the retina, resulting in blurred vision. The blurriness can be intermittent or persistent, and it may be more noticeable during activities that require prolonged visual focus, such as reading, using a computer, or driving.
Other symptoms of dry eyes may include:
- Eye redness
- Burning or stinging sensation in the eyes
- Sensitivity to light
- Feeling like there’s something in your eye (foreign body sensation)
- Excessive tearing (in response to dryness)
Several factors can contribute to dry eyes, including environmental factors (e.g., low humidity, air conditioning), prolonged screen time, aging, certain medical conditions, medications, and wearing contact lenses for extended periods.
If you are experiencing persistent blurry vision or other symptoms of dry eyes, it’s essential to consult with an eye care professional. They can evaluate your eyes, determine the underlying cause of your dry eyes, and recommend appropriate treatments, which may include artificial tears, lifestyle changes, or other interventions to help alleviate the symptoms.