Are you having trouble with your vision lately? Are you no longer able to read a sign you had no trouble reading weeks ago? Are you getting frequent headaches when you’re trying to read a book or a magazine?
Any of these are a sign that your vision is probably getting blurry. If that’s the case, then it might be in your best interest to consider seeing an ophthalmologist in Singapore at Asia Retina. If treated right away, blurry vision can be corrected, and you may still be able to restore your normal vision. There are also cases however when your blurry vision might be temporary and is just a side effect of fatigue or lack of sleep.
Due to the many possible causes and explanations for blurry vision, it is important to have a set of things to look out for so that you know if you should see an ophthalmologist right away.
Why is your vision becoming blurred?
There are multiple possible causes of blurry vision, some of which are more common than others. Some of these causes include:
- Refractive Errors of the Eye
One of the most frequent reasons for blurry vision is if you have refractive errors of the eye. This happens when light doesn’t bend correctly when it enters your eye, resulting in nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia) or astigmatism.
- Presbyopia
As we age, it is common for people to develop presbyopia. Presbyopia is a condition wherein your eyes have a hard time focusing on close objects, making them look blurry as a result. This condition develops gradually, and your vision will start to become blurred at as early as 40 years old.
- Cataracts
If the lens of your eye develops a cloudy or opaque region, this is what is called a cataract. This causes blurry vision and may make it harder for you to see during nighttime. Although most cataracts show up in older people, there are some cases where younger people can develop them either due to trauma or as a side effect of medication.
- Dry Eye Syndrome
If your eyes aren’t lubricated enough by your tears, then your eyes have a bigger risk of infection, and there wouldn’t be anything to keep the surface of the eye clear. This is called dry eye syndrome and can cause your vision to be blurry.
- Eye strain/fatigue
Your eyes can get fatigued from too much use, such as after staring at your phone’s screen or after driving for a long period. When this happens, it can cause headaches, dry eyes and blurred vision.
- Eye infection/injury
If your eyes get infected or injured, they might not be able to function well and can affect your vision. These may also lead to more serious problems if not treated immediately.
When should you see an ophthalmologist in Singapore?
For most cases of blurry vision, whether you think it’s serious or not, it is always a good idea to consult with an ophthalmologist in Singapore so that you can clear your mind. Blurred vision can be an early symptom of some severe medical conditions such as diabetes, stroke, or even brain tumours, and the earlier these conditions are detected, the better.
If your blurred vision clears up after a few minutes, or by just blinking a couple of times, then it may be caused by eye strain and shouldn’t be serious. You can, however, ask an ophthalmologist to be on the safe side.
On the other hand, you should see an ophthalmologist for blurry vision ASAP if:
- your vision shifts from clear to blurry instantaneously
- you experience any eye pain or discomfort
- your eyes also become very sensitive to light and have a hard time seeing in the dark
- you feel dizzy
- you feel like you’re losing balance
- you feel numb in one of your arms
Each of these is possible signs of a more serious condition and if left untreated, its effects may be permanent and life-threatening.
How is blurry vision treated by ophthalmologists?
Your ophthalmologist will first try to determine what causes your blurry vision. The diagnosis is usually done by administering a series of eye tests and a physical examination to the patient. He/she may also give you a blood test if an underlying reason is suspected to be the cause. Once this is done, your doctor will then prescribe a treatment to address whatever is causing your eyesight to become blurry or clouded in the first place.
For blurry vision caused by refractive errors of the eye, then your doctor might tell you to get some corrective glasses to address the issue. These glasses may also contain special lenses, such as those that block glare and certain wavelengths of light. Your doctor will also ask for a follow-up checkup to observe how your eyes are adapting to the corrective glasses and/or contact lenses.
If you have dry eye syndrome, then eye drops may be prescribed to lubricate your eyes and protect it from infection. Depending on your condition, these eye drops may also have a relaxing effect to help you in resting and dealing with possible headaches.
If the cause of your blurry vision is an underlying condition such as cataracts or glaucoma, then your ophthalmologist may recommend that you get eye surgery. Make sure that your doctor tells you all that is needed to know about the procedure before you agree to it.
Can blurry vision be prevented?
If you want to protect your eyes and prevent your vision from becoming blurred, it is ideal that you have regular checkups with an ophthalmologist to monitor your eye’s health and development. Avoid looking directly at the sun, as it can permanently damage your eyes.
Maintaining a balanced diet and an active lifestyle can also go a long way in ensuring that your body is kept fit and healthy, which in turn will also keep your eyes healthy. Try to avoid harmful habits like smoking and drinking to keep not just your eyes, but your whole body in tip-top shape.
Asia Retina – Eye specialist (Ophthalmologist) in Singapore, Dr Claudine Pang
#15-10 The Paragon, 290 Orchard Rd, 238859
+65 6732 0007
https://asiaretina.com