Blurry Vision Blues: How Dry Eyes Can Impact Visual Clarity
&srotate=0)
Have you ever experienced blurry vision that doesn't seem to clear up, no matter how much you blink? You might be surprised to learn that dry eyes could be the cause. At Eye Specialists of Napa Valley, we often see patients struggling with dry eye symptoms, like blurred vision, that make everyday tasks like reading or driving difficult. But how exactly do dry eyes affect your vision, and what can be done about it? Read on to learn more. Then, contact us to learn more about dry eye treatment in Napa, CA, and schedule an exam.
What causes dry eyes?
There are several factors that can contribute to dry eyes, including:
- Aging, as tear production tends to decrease over time
- Environmental factors like wind, smoke, or dry air
- Autoimmune conditions such as Sjögren's syndrome
- Medications, including antihistamines and blood pressure drugs
- Prolonged screen time, which reduces the blink rate
- Wearing contact lenses for extended periods
All these factors can disrupt tear production or lead to faster tear evaporation, resulting in dry eyes.
Can dry eyes cause blurred vision?
Dry eyes can cause blurred vision. When your eyes don't produce enough tears, or the tears evaporate too quickly, the tear film becomes unstable. The tear film is essential for maintaining clear vision because it helps smooth out the surface of the eye. Without enough moisture, your eyes can't focus properly, which can lead to blurred vision.
Other symptoms may include:
- Redness and irritation
- Burning or stinging sensations
- Sensitivity to light
- Excessive tearing
- Feeling like something is in your eye
What is the connection between dry eyes and blurry vision?
The connection between dry eyes and blurry vision lies in the health of your tear film. Tears are made up of three layers — oil, water, and mucus — which work together to keep the surface of your eye smooth and clear. When this balance is disrupted, it can lead to dry eye symptoms, including blurry vision. People who spend a lot of time in front of screens, live in dry climates, or wear contact lenses are often more prone to experiencing this issue.
How are dry eyes diagnosed?
Diagnosing dry eyes involves a comprehensive eye exam, which may include tests to measure tear production and the quality of your tears. At our Napa, CA facility, we use specialized tools and tests to evaluate how well your eyes produce tears. We may also assess the condition of your tear film and the health of your cornea to determine the severity of your dry eye condition. By pinpointing the cause of your symptoms, we can recommend the most effective treatment plan possible.
How can dry eye treatment improve your vision?
Fortunately, there are effective treatments for dry eyes that can help restore visual clarity. At Eye Specialists of Napa Valley, we offer personalized dry eye treatment options, which may include artificial tears, prescription eye drops, and more. By addressing the underlying causes of dry eyes, these treatments can help stabilize your tear film and reduce symptoms, including blurry vision.
Don't live with dry eyes
Dry eyes can be more than just an annoyance — they can significantly impact visual clarity. Don't let blurred vision interfere with your daily life. Contact Eye Specialists of Napa Valley today to schedule an appointment and explore the best treatment options possible for your dry eyes. Our Napa, CA team is here to help.