You blink, and for a moment, things seem clear. Then, the blurriness creeps back in, making you wonder what’s going on. If you’ve ever experienced blurry vision that comes and goes, you know how frustrating it can be.
One common reason for this is dry eye, a condition where your eyes don’t produce enough quality tears. Yes, dry eyes can cause blurry vision, but you can take steps to manage it. Being proactive can help protect your long-term comfort and sight.
The Link Between Your Tear Film & Clear Sight
Think of the surface of your eye like a window. To see clearly, it needs a clean, even surface. That’s the job of your tear film—a thin layer of moisture that covers your cornea.
This layer is made of three parts: a mucus layer, a water layer, and an oily outer layer produced by your meibomian glands. Together, they keep your eyes hydrated and help focus light so you can see sharply.
When you have dry eye, your body is either making too few tears or the tears that it does make are of poor quality. This creates a rough surface that scatters light instead of focusing it properly. The result is often blurry vision.
How to Know If Dry Eyes Are Causing Your Blurry Vision
Blurry vision from dry eye often has a few distinct characteristics. Typically, it’s not constant, and blinking should clear it up for a little while. It also tends to get worse as the day goes on, especially after long hours of screen use.
Other Common Dry Eye Symptoms
Along with blurry vision, you might also experience other signs of dry eye. Look out for symptoms such as:
- A sandy or gritty feeling, like something is in your eye
- Stinging or burning sensations
- Redness & irritation
- Watery eyes—which is your body’s response to the irritation
- Sensitivity to light
Common Causes of Dry Eyes & Blurry Vision
Many parts of our modern lives can contribute to dry eye symptoms. For busy professionals and families, some of these factors are hard to avoid. Understanding them is the first step toward finding relief.
Your Environment & Daily Habits
Your daily routine and surroundings can have a big impact on your tear film. Some common contributors include:
- Screen Time: When you stare at a computer or phone, you tend to blink less often, which prevents your tears from spreading across your eyes. This can also lead to digital eye strain.
- Your Surroundings: Dry air from heating or air conditioning systems can cause tears to evaporate more quickly. The dry climate in Calgary can also play a role.
- Contact Lenses: Some types of contact lenses can cause dry eye by absorbing moisture, which leads to dryness & discomfort.
Health & Lifestyle Factors
Sometimes, dry eye is linked to other health factors. Certain medications, natural hormonal changes, and other health conditions can all affect your tear production. That’s why it’s helpful to discuss your full health picture with an eye doctor.
How to Find Relief for Dry Eyes & Blurry Vision
The good news is that you can take simple steps to manage dry eye symptoms and improve your visual clarity. Let’s explore a few options.
Can Eye Drops Help Blurry Vision?
For many people, lubricating eye drops, also known as artificial tears, can offer temporary relief. These work by supplementing your natural tear film, helping to smooth the eye’s surface and relieving that frustrating blurriness.
However, not all eye drops are the same. Your optometrist can guide you towards a product that fits your needs.
Simple Changes for Everyday Comfort
In addition to drops, small changes in your habits can support healthier eyes. Try incorporating these simple practices into your day:
- Follow the 20-20-20 rule: Every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds to give your eyes a break from screen focus.
- Use a humidifier to add moisture to the air in your home or office.
- Wear sunglasses outside to shield your eyes from wind & sun.
- Stay hydrated by drinking enough water throughout the day.
What About Vitamins for Dry Eyes?
A balanced diet supports your overall health, including your eyes. Nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids may play a role in the oily part of your tears that prevents evaporation, though research on supplements is still evolving. You can find these nutrients in foods like fish, walnuts, and flaxseed.
When to See Your Family Eye Doctors in Calgary
At-home care can provide significant relief for mild dry eye. However, if your symptoms persist or worsen, it’s a good idea to schedule an eye exam. Blurry vision can sometimes be a sign of other underlying conditions.
Signs You Should Book an Appointment
It’s time to connect with an eye doctor if you notice any of the following:
- Blurry vision that doesn’t clear up with blinking or using eye drops
- Consistent eye pain or discomfort
- Symptoms that get in the way of your daily life, like driving or reading
- Your eyes feel worse even after you try home remedies
A thorough check-up with your family eye doctor can pinpoint the causes of your discomfort. If you’re ready to address your dry eye symptoms, schedule your appointment with our team at Calgary Family Eye Doctors today.
We’re here to help you see your world more clearly.
