18 Common Causes of Sudden Blurry Vision
Sudden blurry vision can be concerning, especially when it occurs unexpectedly. While it is sometimes harmless and short-lived, it can also indicate a more serious underlying eye condition or general health issue. Early diagnosis is essential to protect your vision and maintain overall eye health.
Below are 18 common causes of sudden blurry vision you should be aware of:
1. Refractive errors (Uncorrected vision)
Conditions like myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), and astigmatism can cause blurred vision if your prescription changes or if you are not wearing corrective lenses.
2. Dry eyes
Inadequate tear production or poor tear quality can cause intermittent blurry vision, often accompanied by a gritty or burning sensation.
3. Eye fatigue or Digital eye strain
Extended screen time without breaks can lead to temporary blurring, eye discomfort, and headaches.
4. Migraine with aura
Some people experience visual disturbances, including blurry vision, flashing lights, or zig-zag patterns, as part of a migraine aura.
5. Cataracts
A clouding of the natural lens inside the eye, cataracts can cause gradual or sometimes sudden blurry vision, glare sensitivity, and difficulty seeing at night.
6. Glaucoma
In acute angle-closure glaucoma, a sudden increase in eye pressure can cause pain, redness, nausea, and blurry vision. This is a medical emergency.
7. Retinal detachment
A detached retina can cause sudden blurry vision, flashes of light, or the sensation of a curtain falling over part of your visual field. Immediate treatment is required.
8. Macular degeneration
Sudden blurring in the central vision could be a sign of wet age-related macular degeneration (AMD), which needs urgent care to prevent permanent damage. (ADD backlinks here)
9. Diabetic retinopathy
Fluctuating blood sugar levels can damage blood vessels in the retina, causing patchy or blurry vision, especially in people with diabetes.
10. Eye infections (e.g., Conjunctivitis, Keratitis)
Infections can cloud your vision, cause discharge, and increase light sensitivity.
11. Uveitis
Inflammation of the middle layer of the eye can cause sudden blurry vision, pain, redness, and floaters.
12. Floaters or vitreous haemorrhage
A sudden increase in floaters or hazy vision might be due to bleeding in the eye, often linked with diabetic eye disease or trauma.
13. Corneal abrasion or ulcer
Injury or infection of the cornea can lead to sudden blurring, tearing, and intense discomfort.
14. High blood pressure (Hypertensive retinopathy)
Severely elevated blood pressure can cause sudden vision changes by affecting blood vessels in the retina.
15. Stroke or TIA (Mini Stroke)
Blurred or lost vision in one eye, often combined with other neurological symptoms, could indicate a stroke and requires emergency attention.
16. Optic neuritis
Often linked to conditions like multiple sclerosis, this inflammation of the optic nerve can cause sudden blurred vision, eye pain, and color vision changes.
17. Medications or Eye drops
Certain medications, including antihistamines, antidepressants, and even overuse of some eye drops, can temporarily blurry vision.
18. Contact lens issues
Wearing damaged, dirty, or overworn contact lenses can reduce visual clarity and increase your risk of infection.
When should you see an eye specialist?
You should seek urgent eye care if your blurry vision is:
- Sudden and severe.
- Accompanied by pain, redness, or headache.
- Associated with flashes, floaters, or vision loss.
Conclusion
Sudden blurry vision should never be ignored—while some causes may be minor or temporary, others can signal serious eye conditions or broader health issues that require immediate medical attention. At Clarity Eye Surgeons in Canberra, our priority is to protect and preserve your vision through prompt diagnosis and expert care. If you are experiencing sudden changes in your vision, do not wait. Early intervention can make all the difference in maintaining your eye health and preventing long-term complications.
Author bio
Dr Parth Shah is a director and principal ophthalmologist at Clarity Eye Surgeons in Canberra, specialising in cataract surgery. With extensive training and experience, he is renowned for his expertise in the field. Dr Shah is dedicated not only to performing successful surgeries but also to patient education. His compassionate approach, combined with technical proficiency, has earned him the trust and gratitude of countless patients. He is a true advocate for eye health and a trusted name in the Canberra ophthalmology community.
FAQs
Yes, high stress levels or anxiety can sometimes cause temporary blurry vision due to changes in breathing patterns, elevated cortisol, or muscle tension around the eyes.
Yes, allergic reactions can cause eye inflammation, watering, and itchiness that may result in blurred vision.
Yes, this can happen due to overnight dryness, eye discharge, or sleeping with contact lenses. It usually resolves quickly but should be monitored if persistent.
Yes, deficiencies in vitamins like A, B12, and D can affect eye health and potentially lead to vision disturbances.
Yes, hormonal changes during pregnancy can lead to temporary changes in vision, including blurriness or dry eyes.
Yes, excessive alcohol consumption or drug use can impair visual processing and lead to short-term blurry vision.