Sudden Blurred Vision: What to Do and When to See a Doctor

Sudden blurred vision can be a distressing and sometimes worrying experience. Your vision, a critical sense, allows you to navigate the world around you, and any disruption can significantly affect your daily life. While occasional blurriness may not always be a cause for concern, it is important to understand that sudden blurred vision may be a symptom of underlying health problems that may require immediate attention.

1. Retinal detachment
“Retinal detachment is a medical emergency in which the retina, the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye, is pulled away from its normal position. When this happens, it can lead to a sudden and painless blurred vision, often described as a blurred part of the visual field as a "curtain" or "shadow," Dr. Bhale said.

2. Acute angle-closure glaucoma
"Acute angle-closure glaucoma is a condition in which there is a sudden increase in eye pressure, causing severe eye pain, headache, nausea and sudden blurred vision," Dr. It is a medical emergency that needs immediate attention, Bhale added. Prevent permanent vision loss.

3. Stroke or transient ischemic attack
"Strokes and transient ischemic attacks or "mini-strokes" can disrupt blood flow to the eyes, causing sudden changes in vision. These changes may manifest as blurred or lost vision in one or both eyes. Any sudden change in vision, especially When combined with other neurological symptoms, it is considered a medical emergency,” explains Dr. Bhale.

4. Corneal infection
Corneal infection, also known as keratitis, is an eye infection that affects the cornea, the clear, dome-shaped surface that covers the front of the eye. These infections can be caused by bacteria, viruses, fungi or parasites and can range in severity from mild to sight-threatening. This can result in sudden blurred vision, along with pain, sensitivity to light and excessive tearing.

5. Central Serous Retinopathy (CSR)
“CSR is a condition characterized by fluid accumulation under the macula, the central part of the retina responsible for sharp, focused vision. CSR is usually seen in one eye, although it can affect both eyes simultaneously or at different times,” Dr. Bhale pointed out.

6. Side effects of medication
Some medications, including anticholinergic drugs and steroids, can lead to sudden blurred vision as a side effect. If you experience changes in your vision after starting a new medication, consult your healthcare provider. They may adjust your treatment or recommend an alternative medicine.

7. Optic neuritis
Optic neuritis is a condition that involves inflammation of the optic nerve, which is the nerve that carries visual information from the eye to the brain. This inflammation can result in sudden loss of vision and discomfort.

The causes of sudden blurred vision vary, and identifying these causes is important for prompt diagnosis and appropriate treatment. While some cases of blurred vision can be addressed with rest or eye drops, others may indicate a more significant underlying health condition that needs immediate attention.