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My Vision Is Suddenly Blurry: Is This an Emergency?
It’s normal for your vision to change as you age, but what does it mean if it changes suddenly? Is sudden blurry vision an emergency? It depends. Read on to learn more.
What Can Cause Double Vision?
Double vision, or diplopia, means seeing two images instead of one. It can make reading, driving, and even walking difficult.
Read on as our team at Maryland Eye Care Center in Hyattsville and Silver Spring, Maryland, discusses the common causes of double vision and when it might signal an eye emergency.
Types of double vision
Double vision falls into two main categories, depending on its cause:
Monocular double vision
Double vision that persists when one eye is closed usually relates to an issue within the affected eye.
Binocular double vision
Double vision that ceases when one eye is closed may indicate a problem with eye alignment, nerves, or muscles.
6 causes of double vision
The following conditions can all contribute to this vision issue:
1. Astigmatism
Astigmatism results from an irregularly shaped cornea. A misshapen cornea distorts how light enters your eye, which can lead to overlapping or blurred images. Astigmatism can be corrected with prescription lenses or contacts.
2. Cataracts
Cataracts occur when the naturally clear lens in the eye becomes cloudy. Many people describe cataracts as looking through a foggy window. A cataract in one eye can cause monocular double vision in that eye.
3. Dry eye syndrome
Dry eye syndrome can cause double vision by creating an unstable tear film. That can lead to blurred or fluctuating vision as your eyes struggle to maintain a clear focus. Your double vision might be related to dry eye syndrome if your eyes are red or watery or have a gritty sensation.
4. Eye muscle problems
The muscles that control eye movement must work together for proper alignment. If they don’t, double vision can occur. With strabismus, for example, misalignment may cause one eye to turn inward, outward, up, or down.
Thyroid issues can also affect eye muscles. Graves’ disease is a thyroid condition that can cause swelling in the eye muscles and contribute to misalignment.
5. Nerve disorders
Nerve damage can impact how your brain communicates with your eye muscles. Multiple sclerosis (MS), for example, can contribute to eye muscle issues and double vision. About 1 in 3 people with MS can’t move their eyes how they should.
6. Brain-related issues
Vision is controlled by your brain, meaning brain issues can contribute to double vision. These include strokes, tumors, and, more commonly, migraine disorders.
People with migraine disorders may see aura (flashes of light) before their headache sets in. Some people have double vision accompanying those symptoms.
When to seek medical attention for double vision
Most causes of double vision (like astigmatism) aren’t emergencies, but double vision can signal a serious medical condition.
Seek medical care immediately if your double vision is accompanied by weakness, dizziness, trouble speaking, severe headache, facial numbness, or sudden vision loss in one or both eyes.
If you suspect you or a loved one is having a stroke, call 911.
How is double vision treated?
The right treatment depends on the underlying cause. At Maryland Eye Care Center, our team conducts a comprehensive eye exam, reviews your symptoms, and takes your medical history.
Options for double vision include:
- Corrective lenses for refractive issues
- Eye exercises for muscle imbalances
- Medication for autoimmune or neurological conditions
- Surgery for cataracts, eye misalignment, or nerve-related issues
- Eye drops to remedy dry eye syndrome
If your vision suddenly changes (or you experience other eye emergencies), call 301-431-0431. For non-emergency issues or to schedule an eye exam, request an appointment online.
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