Causes of blurred vision

There are many different eye problems and conditions that can cause blurred vision. These
include:

Refractive errors

To understand how refractive errors cause blurred vision, it first helps to understand how the
eye works.

Refractive errors that cause blurred vision include:

Long sightedness: causes blurred vision when viewing objects close up, such as
when reading a book or using a computer.
Short sightedness: causes blurred vision when viewing objects at a distance, such as
when watching television or driving.
Astigmatism: causes blurred vision when viewing objects at any distance, from
reading and computer use, to driving and watching television.

Cataracts

Cataracts are a clouding of the lens in your eye. At first, any blurred eyesight may be almost
imperceptible. However, cataracts can eventually result in severe blurred vision that has a
major impact on your independence.

If you have had a cataract removed and your blurry vision re-occurs, posterior capsule
opacity also known as a secondary cataract may be the cause

Diabetic retinopathy

Diabetic retinopathy is a condition associated with diabetes. High blood sugar levels cause
damage to the retina (the focusing surface at the back of the eye). The final stage of diabetic
retinopathy, known as macular oedema, can cause blurred vision.

Epiretinal membrane

An epiretinal membrane is a thin, fibrous layer that forms over the retina (the focusing
surface at the back of the eye). It acts like a film that partially blocks the light entering your
eye, which results in blurred vision.

Keratoconus
Keratoconus is an eye disease that results in a conically shaped cornea (the clear front
window of your eye). Because the cornea does much of the eyes focusing, the irregular
shape can cause blurred vision.

Macular degeneration and macular holes

The macula is the central part of the retina at the back of your eye. It allows you to see
detail, colour, and things directly in front of you. Macular degeneration and macular
holes damage the macula, causing central vision to become blurred.

Retinal detachment

A detached retina is a serious medical emergency that can cause sudden blurred vision. It
may also cause a number of other symptoms, such as flashes and floaters, and sudden
blindness.

Retinal vein occlusion

If the blood vessels that feed the retina (the focusing surface at the back of the eye) become
blocked, it is known as a retinal vein occlusion. This can cause sudden blurred vision, and
also sudden blindness.

Pterygium

A pterygium is a benign growth that occurs on the surface of the eye. Sometimes,
a pterygium can grow onto the cornea. If this occurs, it can alter the shape of the cornea,
causing blurred vision.

Vitreous haemorrhage

If blood leaks into the vitreous gel that fills your eye, it can block the light that enters your
eye, causing blurred vision. Vitreous haemorrhage can be caused by trauma or injury, or it
may be a result of an eye condition, such as diabetic retinopathy.

Eye infection, inflammation or injury

Many people suffer blurry vision as a result of an eye infection or injury. Eyelid and eyelash
problems can sometimes cause blurred vision, as can the common eye infection
conjunctivitis.