Have your eyes recently become fuzzy?
Some people jump to the conclusion that blurred vision simply means it’s time to get a pair of glasses. Although that can be the case sometimes, blurred vision can also be caused by other, more severe conditions. Always visit an eye doctor when you notice an issue. In the meantime, you may be curious as to what the potential causes of the blurred vision could be.
Blurry vision can affect both eyes or only one, but the impact the vision is the same. Objects can appear more hazy, out of focus and cloudy. We’ve made a guide to understanding what the most common causes of blurred vision are. Check it out below:
Refractive Errors
Refractive errors in vision are quite common, and most often the cause of blurred vision. This condition simply means that the shape of one’s shape does not bend light properly, resulting in a hazy image. The main types of refractive errors in vision include:
Myopia (Nearsightedness)
Myopia is a condition more commonly known as “nearsightedness,” which makes only distant objects blurry, while close objects remain clear. The shape of one’s eye causes light rays to refract incorrectly, which results in images in front of the retina to be focused instead on the retina. This vision condition is often inherited and discovered in childhood, which can make it easier to treat early on. Nearsightedness can develop quickly from childhood to adolescence, or can be a gradual process.
Nearsightedness can lead to eye strain, headaches and constant squinting when attempting to see an object clearly.
Hyperopia (Farsightedness)
Hyperopia is the condition of being unable to detect close objects clearly, but able to see distant objects fine. Otherwise known as “farsightedness,” hyperopia can vary in severity depending on the individual. Similar to myopia, farsightedness is usually inherited and can be present at birth and onwards into adolescence. You may experience symptoms of eye strain and squinting, as well as burning eyes, aching in or around the eyes and general discomfort.
Presbyopia (Loss of Vision from Age)
Presbyopia is a condition where the eye’s ability to focus on nearby objects gradually decreases. This vision problem is natural and a part of ageing that some begin to notice at the age of 40 or older. Most become aware of the issue when reading, watching television or writing out a text message and have to hold the device or book far away to read it. This condition can also be a combination of myopia, hyperopia and astigmatism.
If you’re having issues with your vision, schedule an eye exam at our St. Lawrence Eye Care office located in Toronto. Our eye care team is dedicated to providing you with high-quality care for your vision and repair any problems for the long term. Our walk-in optometrist office is convenient and comfortable, with our practice open most of the week for you to drop by. Come in for an eye exam today!