Blurry vision

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This is one of the most common presentations of blurred vision and generally the most benign.  The most common cause is ocular surface disease and the strategies outlined in the sore eyes section of the website are often helpful. Even if the eyes don't feel dry, an unhealthy ocular surface is a common cause for intermittent blurred vision which will typically be worse towards the end of the day or when doing visual tasks such as reading. There are other causes which may be more serious including diabetes, cataract, changing glass prescription, and neurological diseases. Decreasing vision which is persistent, severe or progressive should prompt a visit to your eye care professional.

The common causes of progressive blurred vision include cataract, retinal disease, changing glass prescription, ocular surface disease. There are many others. As described above, any decreasing vision which is severe or progressive should prompt a visit to your eye care professional.

Sudden onset blurred or decreased vision generally suggests a different diagnosis. It is not uncommon for blurred vision to be recognized suddenly, especially when it is only one eye. It can be difficult to appreciate progressive decline in vision in one eye when the other functions well. For this reason, progressive problems such as cataract, glaucoma,  and retinal diseases can sometimes present this way. Truly sudden onset conditions are generally more serious and include vascular problems, inflammatory diseases, and neurological problems. Sudden changes in vision should prompt an urgent visit to your eye care professional or the emergency department.