Our eyes are a remarkable source of insight into our physical well-being. Whether you’re experiencing pressure, pain or changes in vision, either gradual or sudden, your eyes can be the first place for detectable warning signs about various health problems.
Specifically, blurry vision can indicate a worrisome form of cancer, known as eye melanoma. Even a small melanoma can cause vision loss if it occurs in certain parts of the eye.
But how do you know when blurry vision may be something to worry about, and when it’s not?
Our eye doctors discuss further below.
When Is Blurry Cause For Concern?
Blurry vision is a common occurrence for most people, and there are a lot of potential reasons for it that shouldn’t cause more than a passing concern.
In many cases, dry eyes, whether because of seasonal allergies or something more chronic, are to blame. Dry eyes may water, sting, or be prone to producing mucus, as well as interfering with vision. Our optometric team should be able to take a look at your eyes and evaluate your symptoms to let you know if dry eye syndrome is to blame.
Other times, it may simply be from fatigue at the end of along day or digital eye strain. In all ofthese cases, your vision should return to normal once you’ve rested.
However, if your blurry vision is accompanied by any of the following symptoms, seek help immediately:
- Muscle weakness
- Altered sensation (or “feeling funny”) in any part of the body
- Lightheadedness
- Headache
Protect your eyes now, help reduce your risk of cancer later
While it isn’t known exactly what causes eye cancer or how to definitively prevent it, you can practice eye-healthy habits that may reduce your risk of disease overall. These include:
- Decreasing sun exposure. Always wear a hat and sunglasses that filter UVA and UVB rays while out in the sun.
- Getting regular eye exams. This helps detect problems with your eyes and vision at their earliest stages, making successful treatment easier.
- Reducing your time in front of screens. This reduces exposureto blue light, which has been linked by some studies to an increased risk of eye disease.
- Practicing healthy contact lens habits. Cleaning your contacts and taking them out regularly helps prevent infection and reduce risk of eye disease.
- Eating right. Having the right vitamins, antioxidants, and minerals in your diet can improve your vision and overall eye health.
Not sure if you should be worried about your blurry vision? Contact our eye doctors at today!
Q&A
Can diabetes cause blurry vision?
Yes. Diabetes can cause the lens of the eye to begin to swell, resulting in blurry vision. This happens especially when blood sugar levels change dramatically in a short period of time. Fortunately this is a temporary condition, which returns back to normal soon after your blood sugar level stablilizes.
Is blurry vision when pregnant a problem?
You should let your doctor know if your vision is blurry during pregnancy. Though it’s a common issue, blurry vision during pregnancy can also be an early sign of gestational diabetes, preeclampsia or high blood pressure. These conditions can be dangerous for baby and mother alike.