Blurred Vision
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on May 6, 2024.
Blurred vision is when you cannot see fine details. You may have blurred vision if you are nearsighted or farsighted and you need glasses. Blurred vision may be caused by a corneal abrasion (scratch on the cornea) or a corneal ulcer (open sore). You may have blurred vision if your eye came into contact with a chemical. A foreign body or infection may also cause blurred vision. Medical conditions, such as cataracts, glaucoma, detached retina, and nerve disorders can also cause blurred vision. Blurred vision may also be caused by a concussion or a tumor. If you have diabetes, you may develop diabetic retinopathy. Diabetic retinopathy damages the blood vessels of your retina.
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DISCHARGE INSTRUCTIONS:
Return to the emergency department if:
- You have weakness in an arm or leg, difficulty speaking or seeing, and a severe headache.
- You have a fever, eye pain, or discharge.
- You have a sudden loss of vision.
Contact your healthcare provider if:
- Your blurred vision gets worse.
- Your blurred vision is worse in the morning.
- You have a sudden headache or eye pain.
- Your eye has swelling, redness, or discharge.
- You see floaters, flashes of light, fine dots, or cobweb shapes.
- You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.
Medicines:
You may need any of the following:
- Prescription pain medicine may be given. Ask how to take this medicine safely.
- Antibiotics help prevent or treat an eye infection caused by bacteria. It may be given as eyedrops or an ointment.
- Take your medicine as directed. Contact your healthcare provider if you think your medicine is not helping or if you have side effects. Tell your provider if you are allergic to any medicine. Keep a list of the medicines, vitamins, and herbs you take. Include the amounts, and when and why you take them. Bring the list or the pill bottles to follow-up visits. Carry your medicine list with you in case of an emergency.
Manage your blurred vision:
Your healthcare provider may ask you to do any of the following:
- Use artificial tears to keep your eye moist or to soothe your irritated eye.
- Apply a cool compress to decrease any swelling or pain. Wet a clean washcloth with cool water and place it on your eye. Use the cool compress as often as directed.
- Wear an eye patch as directed to protect your eye.
Follow up with your healthcare provider as directed:
You may need other eye exams and medicines. Write down your questions so you remember to ask them during your visits.
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The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.
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