Changes in your vision can be unsettling, and they may indicate that something is wrong with your eyes. Whether your vision becomes blurry or dim, or you start seeing floaters or flashes of light, it’s crucial to understand what these changes might mean and when it’s time to seek help.
At Southern Illinois Eyecare, we believe that early detection and treatment are key to maintaining healthy eyes and preventing further complications.
Let’s look at some of the common causes of vision changes and why prompt professional care is essential.
Common Vision Changes and Their Possible Causes
Blurry Vision
Blurry vision is one of the most common complaints. It can occur suddenly or gradually and may affect one or both eyes. Blurriness can be caused by several factors, including:
- Refractive Errors: Nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism are the most frequent culprits of blurry vision. An updated prescription for glasses or contact lenses can usually correct these issues.
- Cataracts: Cataracts cause the lens of the eye to become cloudy, leading to blurred or foggy vision. They develop gradually and can eventually impair vision to the point where surgery is necessary.
- Dry Eye Syndrome: Insufficient tear production or poor-quality tears can cause the eyes to become dry and irritated, leading to intermittent blurriness.
Sudden Loss of Vision
Sudden loss of vision is a medical emergency. If you experience this sensation, seek immediate help. Possible causes include:
- Retinal Detachment: This occurs when the retina pulls away from its normal position, leading to partial or complete vision loss if not treated promptly.
- Stroke: A stroke that affects the part of the brain responsible for vision can lead to sudden vision loss, typically in one eye.
Double Vision
Seeing double (diplopia) can be alarming and is often a sign that your eye muscles are not functioning properly. It can be caused by:
- Binocular Vision Issues: When your eyes don’t work together as they should, double vision may occur. This may be due to an issue with eye alignment or eye muscle problems.
- Neurological Conditions: Double vision can also be a symptom of a neurological disorder or a more serious condition like a brain injury or tumor.
Light Sensitivity
If you’ve become more sensitive to light (photophobia), it may be due to:
- Cataracts: Cataracts can make your eyes more sensitive to bright lights or cause glare, especially at night.
- Corneal Conditions: Infections, abrasions, or other corneal issues can lead to light sensitivity, along with pain or discomfort.
Seeing Halos or Glare
Halos or glare around lights, particularly at night, could indicate the presence of:
- Cataracts: Cataracts often cause difficulty seeing in low light and halos around lights.
- Glaucoma: This condition can increase pressure in the eye, affecting vision and leading to halos around lights.
Why Early Detection Matters
Catching these early signs of vision problems is crucial for effective treatment and prevention. Many eye conditions, like cataracts, glaucoma, and macular degeneration, progress slowly, causing permanent damage before noticeable symptoms appear.
Request an Appointment at Southern Illinois Eyecare
If you’ve noticed any of the symptoms mentioned above, it’s time to act. At Southern Illinois Eyecare, we offer comprehensive eye exams that can detect vision problems early, ensuring that you get the treatment you need.
Early detection and treatment can make all the difference in preserving your vision and ensuring long-term eye health.