Have you ever experienced your vision suddenly blurring? You are reading the newspaper or watching TV, and all of a sudden, things just do not look quite right. Sudden blurred vision is scary when it happens, especially as we get older. Not only is it annoying, it also makes you worry about could be happening with your health.
Our eyes do naturally change as we get older, but blurry vision is not to be dismissed as “just getting older.” It can signal anything from the simple need for new glasses to more serious conditions that need immediate medical attention. The good news is that there are many treatable causes, especially if they are detected in their early stages.
In this article, we’ll go over the common reasons for sudden blurred vision in older adults, symptoms that warrant a visit to the doctor immediately, and easy steps you can take to improve your eyesight. Understanding what’s happening with your eyesight is the first step towards addressing it properly, so let’s get to it then.
Common causes of sudden blurred vision in older adults and how to combat it
Let’s talk about a few reasons why your vision can suddenly blur. When you know the possible reasons, you will understand what is happening and the next steps to take.
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD): This affects the center of your retina, which is called the macula. This part of your eye enables you to see fine details clearly. As it starts to break down, you might notice blurriness or dark spots in the center of your vision. AMD causes loss of sight in people above the age of 60.
Cataracts: Cataracts are very common as we age. They happen when the lens in your eye becomes cloudy. It is like trying to look through a foggy window. Cataracts usually develop slowly, but sometimes can cause changes in your eyesight. Cataract treatment is effective in restoring vision especially if discovered early.
Glaucoma: This occurs when pressure in your eye goes up, damaging the optic nerve. Although it tends to happen slowly without any symptoms, some types of glaucoma can cause sudden blurry vision along with pain and redness.
Diabetic retinopathy: This condition happens in people with diabetes. The high blood sugar damages the tiny blood vessels in the retina, causing them to leak or grow abnormally. This can cause vision changes.
Dry eye syndrome: This might seem like a minor condition but it can affect your eyesight greatly. When your eyes do not make enough tears or the right kind of tears, your eyesight can blur, especially when you read or use a computer.
Prescription changes: This happens to almost everyone. Your eyes change over time, and glasses or contacts that were right for you last year might not be right for you this year.
Side effects of medications: Certain medications can change vision. Some examples include some blood pressure medicines, antihistamines, and medications used to treat Parkinson’s disease.
Hypertension and cardiovascular disease: This can affect the blood vessels in your eyes, leading to sudden vision problems. This is one reason your eye doctor might be the first to spot the symptoms of these conditions.
When to seek immediate medical attention
While some of the causes of blurry vision are best reserved for a regular visit, others are emergencies. Don’t delay if you are experiencing:
• Severe blurry vision, especially if it’s in one eye only
• Vision loss with a severe headache
• Blurry vision after a head injury
• Sudden light flashes, new floaters, or a “curtain” dropping over your eyes
• Blurry vision along with eye pain or redness
• Double vision along with confusion or weakness on one side of your body (these could be signs of a stroke).
When you contact your doctor, be sure to tell him or her exactly what you are going through. Notice when the double or blurry vision started, if it comes and goes, if it is in one eye or both, and any other symptoms that you are having. This will help your doctor know how soon you should be checked out.
How to fix blurry eyes
There are some things you can do in the meantime while you wait for your appointment with your doctor:
Rest your eyes: The 20-20-20 rule is useful: every 20 minutes, look away from something 20 feet in front of you for 20 seconds. This exercise loosens the eye muscles, especially if you spend a lot of time looking at screens. Consider taking longer breaks during the day, like up to 5 minutes to gives your eyes complete rest.
Check your surroundings: Poor lighting can strain your eyes and make the blurriness worse. Make sure you have good, even lighting for reading and other tasks. Avoid glare from the windows or bight lamps shinning directly on your face and position your reading lights to shine directly on the book.
Use artificial tears: Dryness that is perhaps causing your blurry vision can be relieved by over-the-counter eye drops. If you use them on a regular basis, use preservative-free ones. Don’t wait until your eyes get dry before you apply them, prevention works better than trying to fix already dry eyes. If you use contacts, ask your eye doctor for eye drops that are formulated for contact lens users.
Clean your eye glasses or contacts: Sometimes the solution is as simple as cleaning smudges from your lenses or replacing old contacts. Make a habit of cleaning your glasses daily with a microfiber cloth rather than paper clothes which can scratch the lenses. If you are using contact lense; follow strictly the recommended cleaning and replacement schedule.
For longer term solutions:
Update your prescription: Schedule an eye exam to determine if you need new glasses or contacts. Even small changes in your prescription can make a big difference in how clearly you can see.
Treat underlying conditions:
• Cataracts can be removed surgically, as long as it is identified early.
• Glaucoma can be treated with eye drops or surgery.
• Dry eyes can improve with prescription medication or with special plugs that keep tears in your eyes longer.
Adjust your medications: If your blurry vision is a side effect of medication, talk to your doctor. Never stop taking prescription drugs without consulting your doctor first, but they can switch you to a different dose or drug.
Living with vision changes
If you’re experiencing changes in vision that can’t be completely corrected, don’t lose hope. There are many ways to adapt and stay independent:
Brighten your world: Turn on additional lighting throughout your home, especially in the areas where you read, cook, or do other up-close activities. Consider lighting that directs light exactly where you want it.
Go for big: Large-print books, publications, and papers will make reading enjoyable once more. You can also adjust the size of text on electronic devices or have text read to you by using text-to-speech.
Use magnifying aids: From a simple handheld magnifier to sophisticated video magnifiers, there’s a model for various budgets and requirements.
Make your home safe: Remove tripping hazards, install contrasting strips on stairs, and install rails in the bathroom to prevent falls when your vision isn’t what it used to be.
Connect with others: At times, vision changes may seem like being frustrated or alone. Support groups, either in person or online, can provide encouragement and helpful advice from others who are going through similar experience.
In conclusion, most vision problems can be fixed or improved with proper care, and there are plenty of means to adapt to changes that can’t be fully corrected. Remember that your eyes are worth the same attention and care as the rest of your body. Check-ups, healthy living, and early action on changes in your vision are your best defense against serious eye disorders.
Don’t be afraid of what you might discover and neglect an appointment with your doctor. Early treatment usually leads to better results, and even if you are struggling with an ongoing eye issue, there are more choices now to help you see your best and live well. Your sight is precious, take good care of it.
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