What are the common causes of sudden blurry vision. How can you identify and manage sudden changes in your eyesight. When should you seek immediate medical attention for blurry vision. What are the potential complications of untreated sudden vision changes.

Understanding Sudden Blurry Vision: Causes and Symptoms

Sudden blurry vision can be a disconcerting experience, often signaling an underlying issue that requires attention. While gradual changes in vision are typically associated with long-term medical conditions, abrupt blurring is usually triggered by a single event. Understanding the potential causes and symptoms can help you recognize when to seek medical care and potentially prevent permanent vision loss.

Is sudden blurry vision always a cause for concern? While not all instances of sudden blurry vision are emergencies, many require prompt medical attention. Some conditions, if left untreated, can lead to permanent vision impairment or indicate serious underlying health issues. It’s crucial to be aware of the various causes and their associated symptoms to make informed decisions about seeking medical care.

Retinal Detachment: A Vision-Threatening Emergency

Retinal detachment is a serious condition that occurs when the retina separates from the back of the eye, disrupting its blood and nerve supply. This condition can lead to permanent vision loss if not treated promptly.

Symptoms of Retinal Detachment

• Sudden appearance of flashing lights or floaters
• A curtain-like shadow descending over your field of vision
• Blurred or absent vision in a portion of your visual field

Why does retinal detachment occur? The National Eye Institute reports that aging and injury are common causes, but it can also be a complication of diabetes. Regardless of the cause, retinal detachment is considered a medical emergency requiring immediate treatment to preserve vision.

Stroke and Transient Ischemic Attack: When Vision Changes Signal Brain Events

Strokes and transient ischemic attacks (TIAs) can both cause sudden changes in vision, often accompanied by other neurological symptoms. These events occur when blood flow to part of the brain is interrupted, potentially affecting the areas responsible for visual processing.

Distinguishing Stroke from TIA

How can you tell the difference between a stroke and a TIA? While both conditions can cause similar symptoms, including blurred vision, the key distinction lies in the duration of symptoms:

• Stroke: Symptoms persist beyond 24 hours and may cause permanent damage
• TIA: Symptoms typically resolve within 24 hours, often much sooner

Despite their temporary nature, TIAs should be taken seriously as they can be warning signs of an impending full-blown stroke. Both conditions require immediate medical attention to prevent further complications and reduce the risk of long-term damage.

Macular Degeneration: When the Center of Vision Blurs

Macular degeneration is a condition affecting the macula, the central part of the retina responsible for sharp, detailed vision. While there are two types of macular degeneration – dry and wet – the wet form can cause sudden and rapid changes in vision.

Wet Macular Degeneration

What characterizes wet macular degeneration? This form of the condition involves the growth of abnormal blood vessels beneath the retina. These vessels can leak blood and fluid, causing sudden blurriness and vision loss in the center of your visual field.

Can dry macular degeneration cause sudden vision changes? While dry macular degeneration typically progresses slowly, it can rapidly evolve into the wet form, leading to sudden symptoms. Regular eye exams are crucial for monitoring the progression of macular degeneration and implementing timely interventions.

Glaucoma and Endophthalmitis: Pressure and Infection in the Eye

Two conditions that can cause sudden blurry vision due to changes within the eye are angle-closure glaucoma and endophthalmitis. Both require immediate medical attention to prevent vision loss and other complications.

Angle-Closure Glaucoma

What happens in angle-closure glaucoma? This condition occurs when the drainage system within the eye becomes blocked, causing a rapid increase in intraocular pressure. Symptoms include:

• Sudden blurry vision
• Severe eye pain
• Redness of the eye
• Nausea and vomiting
• Halos around lights

Prompt treatment with eye drops to open the drainage angle and reduce pressure is essential to prevent permanent vision damage.

Endophthalmitis

Endophthalmitis is a severe infection of the fluids within the eyeball, often resulting from eye surgery or an infection that has spread from another part of the body. How does endophthalmitis affect vision? The infection causes inflammation that can lead to:

• Sudden blurry vision
• Eye pain
• Redness and swelling of the eye
• Discharge from the eye

Immediate treatment with antibiotics is crucial to control the infection and preserve vision.

Concussions and Eye Health: The Visual Impact of Brain Injuries

Concussions, a form of mild traumatic brain injury, can have significant effects on vision. Given that a large portion of the brain’s pathways are dedicated to visual processing and eye control, it’s not surprising that brain injuries can result in visual disturbances.

Visual Symptoms of Concussions

• Blurred vision
• Double vision
• Difficulty focusing
• Sensitivity to light
• Visual processing issues

Are vision changes from concussions permanent? While most visual symptoms from concussions are temporary, it’s crucial to seek medical attention to rule out more severe brain injuries or complications. A healthcare professional can assess the extent of the injury and recommend appropriate treatment and follow-up care.

Infections and Inflammations: When Eye Tissues are Under Attack

Various infections and inflammatory conditions can cause sudden blurry vision by affecting different parts of the eye. Understanding these conditions can help in recognizing symptoms and seeking appropriate treatment.

Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye)

Conjunctivitis is an inflammation of the conjunctiva, the thin membrane covering the white part of the eye and inner eyelid. What causes conjunctivitis? It can be triggered by:

• Viruses (most common cause)
• Bacteria
• Allergies

Symptoms include redness, itching, and discharge, in addition to blurred vision.

Keratitis

Keratitis is an inflammation of the cornea, often caused by infection. How does keratitis develop? Common risk factors include:

• Prolonged use of contact lenses
• Improper cleaning of contact lenses
• Sleeping in contact lenses
• Eye injuries

Symptoms may include pain, redness, and blurred vision.

Uveitis

Uveitis is inflammation of the uvea, the middle layer of the eye that includes the iris. What causes uveitis? It can be triggered by:

• Autoimmune disorders
• Infections
• Inflammatory conditions

Symptoms often include pain, redness, and sensitivity to light, along with blurred vision.

Everyday Causes of Blurry Vision: From Eyestrain to Corneal Abrasions

Not all instances of sudden blurry vision are caused by serious medical conditions. Sometimes, everyday activities or minor injuries can lead to temporary vision changes.

Eyestrain

Eyestrain occurs when your eyes become fatigued from intense use. What activities commonly cause eyestrain?

• Extended use of digital devices (digital eyestrain)
• Prolonged reading
• Driving, especially at night or in poor weather

Symptoms typically resolve with rest, but persistent issues may require adjustments to your work environment or vision correction.

Corneal Abrasions

A corneal abrasion is a scratch on the surface of the cornea. How do corneal abrasions occur? Common causes include:

• Foreign objects in the eye
• Rubbing the eye too vigorously
• Contact lens-related injuries

While minor abrasions often heal on their own, more severe cases may require medical treatment to prevent complications and ensure proper healing.

Understanding the various causes of sudden blurry vision empowers individuals to take prompt action when needed. Whether it’s a sign of a serious medical condition or a result of everyday eye strain, being aware of the symptoms and potential causes can help preserve vision and overall eye health. Remember, when in doubt, it’s always best to consult with an eye care professional or seek immediate medical attention for sudden vision changes.

What Causes Sudden Blurry Vision?

Sudden blurring is most often caused by a single event, including a detached retina, stroke or TIA. These 18 events can cause sudden blurred vision, and immediate treatment may be important to prevent permanent vision loss.

Blurry vision is very common. A problem with any of the components of your eye, such as the cornea, retina, or optic nerve, can cause sudden blurred vision.

Slowly progressing blurred vision is usually caused by long-term medical conditions. Sudden blurring is most often caused by a single event.

Here are 18 causes of sudden blurred vision.

Some causes of sudden blurry vision are medical emergencies that must be treated as soon as possible to prevent permanent damage and vision loss.

1. Detached retina

A detached retina occurs when your retina tears away from the back of your eye and loses its blood and nerve supply. According to the National Eye Institute, this is usually the result of aging or injury, but it can also be a complication of diabetes.

When it happens, you see flashing lights or floaters, which are sometimes dark or black. You may also experience an area of blurred or absent vision, sometimes described as a curtain coming down over the vision. Without emergency treatment, vision in that area may be permanently lost.

2. Stroke

Blurry or lost vision in both eyes can occur when you have a stroke affecting the part of your brain that controls vision. A stroke involving your eye causes blurred or lost vision in only one eye.

You may have other symptoms of a stroke, including:

• face drooping
• weakness in the arms
• difficulty speaking
• sudden numbness
• sudden confusion
• dizziness or a loss of balance and coordination
• severe headache with no known cause

3. Transient ischemic attack

A transient ischemic attack (TIA) is a stroke that lasts less than 24 hours. One of its symptoms can be blurred vision in one or both eyes.

4.

Wet macular degeneration

The center of your retina is called the macula. Abnormal vessels may grow, causing blood and other fluid to leak into the macula. This is called wet macular degeneration.

It causes blurriness and vision loss in the center part of your visual field. Unlike dry macular degeneration, this type can begin suddenly and progress rapidly.

While dry macular degeneration proceeds slowly, it can quickly progress to wet and cause sudden symptoms.

5. Angle closure glaucoma

Angle closure glaucoma occurs when the drainage system within the eye is blocked. In this situation, the pressure inside the eye can go up very quickly, causing redness, pain, and nausea.

This is a medical emergency and requires treatment with eye drops to open the angle, decrease the pressure, and decrease the inflammation.

6. Endophthalmitis

An infection in the fluids of your eyeball can cause severe inflammation. This condition is called edophthalmitis and is a serious medical emergency. In addition to blurry vision, you may experience pus discharge from the eyes and swollen or puffy eyelids.

The infection often occurs as a result of surgery. It may also be the result of an infection in another part of the body that has spread to the eye.

7. Concussion

A concussion is a mild traumatic brain injury. A majority of the brain’s pathways are dedicated to vision and controlling the eye, so it’s not surprising that brain injuries can result in blurry vision.

Permanent damage or vision loss are unlikely with a concussion. However, spinal injuries or a subdural hematoma may accompany a concussion, so it’s important to have a doctor examine you as soon as possible.

8. Conjunctivitis

Also called pink eye, conjunctivitis is an infection of the outside lining of your eye. It’s usually caused by a virus but can also be caused by bacteria or allergies.

9. Keratitis

Inflammation of the cornea is called keratitis. It’s usually caused by an infection. Using one pair of contacts for too long, reusing dirty contacts, or sleeping in contacts increases your risk of this.

10. Uveitis

The uvea is a collection of pigmented structures in the eye, including the iris. An infection or autoimmune reaction can cause it to become inflamed and painful, which is called uveitis. The most common form of uveitis is iritis, which is an inflammation of the iris.

Uveitis can occur by itself or as part of an autoimmune condition, such as rheumatoid arthritis or sarcoidosis. It can also be caused by infections like herpes.

It can be painful and cause sensitivity to light, also called photophobia.

11. Eyestrain

Eyestrain can occur after looking at and focusing on something for a long time without a break.

When it’s the result of focusing on an electronic device like a computer or cellphone, it’s sometimes called digital eyestrain. Other causes of eyestrain include reading and driving, especially at night and in poor weather.

12. Corneal abrasion

Your cornea is the clear covering on the front of your eye. When it gets scratched or injured, you may develop a corneal abrasion. In addition to blurry vision, you may feel like there’s something in your eye.

13. High blood sugar

Very high blood sugar levels cause the lens of your eye to swell, which results in blurred vision.

14. Hyphema

Dark red blood that pools inside the front of your eyeball is called a hyphema. It’s caused by bleeding that occurs after your eye is injured. It can become painful if it increases the pressure inside your eye.

15. Macular hole

The macula is the center of your retina that is responsible for your central vision. It can develop a hole that causes blurry vision. It usually only affects one eye.

16. Migraine with aura

Often migraine attacks are preceded by an aura, which can cause blurred vision. You may also see wavy lines or flashing lights and have other sensory disturbances. Sometimes you may have an aura without head pain.

17. Optic neuritis

The optic nerve connects your eye and your brain. Inflammation of the optic nerve is called optic neuritis.

It’s usually caused by an autoimmune reaction or multiple sclerosis. Other causes are autoimmune conditions, such as lupus, or infections. Most often, it affects only one eye.

18. Temporal arteritis

Inflammation in the medium and large arteries is called temporal arteritis or giant cell arteritis. The vessels around your temples can be involved, causing a throbbing headache in your forehead, but it can also cause your vision to blur or disappear.

Along with sudden blurred vision, you might have other eye symptoms that can range from mild to serious, such as:

• photophobia
• pain
• redness
• double vision
• floating spots in front of your eyes, known as floaters

Some symptoms are more common with specific eye conditions, such as:

• eye discharge, which can signal infection
• headache and nausea, which are common with migraine
• itchiness, which may indicate allergic conjunctivitis
• speech difficulties or one-sided weakness, which can accompany stroke or TIA

When is it an emergency?

The following warning signs could mean you have a serious eye condition that can cause permanent eye damage and vision loss. If you have any of them, go to the emergency room (ER) immediately for evaluation and treatment.

• sudden unexplained change in your vision
• eye pain
• eye injury
• signs of a stroke, such as a facial droop, one-sided weakness, or difficulty speaking
• significantly reduced vision, especially in only one eye
• loss of one area of your vision, known as visual field defect
• sudden blurred vision when your immune system is weak due to conditions like HIV or treatments like chemotherapy

Treatment will depend on the condition affecting your vision.

Conditions requiring immediate evaluation

• Detached or torn retina. This requires emergency surgical repair to avoid irreversible vision loss.
• Stroke. Prompt and appropriate treatment for the type of stroke you’re having is critical to prevent the death of your brain cells.
• Transient ischemic attack. Although symptoms resolve within 24 hours on their own, a TIA is a serious warning sign for stroke. You may be given blood thinners to lower the risk of a stroke in the future.
• Wet macular degeneration. Medications injected into the eye may help improve vision. Treatment with laser photocoagulation can slow vision loss but can’t restore your vision. Special vision-enhancing devices are sometimes used to help you see better.
• Angle closure glaucoma. You will need several different medications, including topical and oral pressure-lowering drugs, and occasionally steroids to reduce the fluid in your eye. Many times, you may require a laser procedure called laser iridotomy.
• Endophthalmitis. An ophthalmologist will inject antibiotics or an antifungal medication into your eye. They may also give you a steroid to reduce swelling.
• Concussion. A concussion should be evaluated, but visual symptoms usually resolve in 7 to 10 days on their own. If problems with eye movement or focus persist, your doctor may recommend vision therapy.

Infections

• Conjunctivitis. This usually goes away on its own, but antibiotics or antiviral medication can often speed recovery and lower the chance it will spread.
• Keratitis. When caused by an infection, keratitis is treated with antibiotic drops. For a severe infection, oral antibiotics and steroid eye drops may be used.
• Uveitis, including iritis. This usually requires steroid treatment. However, it commonly reoccurs. If it becomes chronic and resistant to treatment, you can lose your vision. Immune modulating medications may be required to prevent this.

Other causes

• Eyestrain. If you have eyestrain from looking at a screen or one thing for a long time, take a break and rest your eyes. To prevent eyestrain, the American Optometric Association suggests you follow the 20-20-20 rule. To do this, focus on something 20 feet away for 20 seconds every 20 minutes.
• Corneal abrasion. This typically heals on its own in a few days. Antibiotics can treat or prevent an infection.
• High blood sugar. Lowering blood sugar solves the problem.
• Hyphema. When there are no other injuries and your eye pressure isn’t increased, bed rest and an eye patch should help. If it’s more severe and the pressure is very high, your ophthalmologist may remove the blood surgically.
• Macular hole. If it doesn’t heal on its own, the hole is usually repaired surgically.
• Migraine with aura. An aura doesn’t need treatment, but it’s a signal that you should take your usual medication for your migraine.
• Optic neuritis. This is managed by treating the underlying condition, but steroids may be helpful even if there are no systemic findings.
• Temporal arteritis. This is treated with long-term steroids. Treatment is important to avoid permanent vision problems.

When treatment is delayed, some causes of sudden blurry vision can result in vision loss. However, prompt and appropriate treatment leads to a good outcome without complications for most causes of sudden blurry vision.

Many things can cause your vision to suddenly become blurred. Contact your doctor about any sudden unexplained change in your vision.

If you think you have a detached retina, wet macular degeneration, or are having a TIA or stroke, go to the ER for immediate treatment to have the best outcome.

Causes, treatment, and when to seek help

Blurry vision is not always a cause for concern, but it can be a sign of a detached retina, a stroke, an infection, and various other conditions that may need medical attention.

Keep reading for more information on what can cause sudden blurry vision, when to seek urgent medical advice, and the treatment options available.

Share on PinterestA detached retina is a possible cause of sudden blurry vision.

A detached retina occurs when the retina, which is the thin layer at the back of the eye, pulls away from the blood vessels that provide it with essential oxygen and nutrients.

According to the National Eye Institute, symptoms can appear quickly. Without rapid treatment, permanent damage and vision loss can occur.

Symptoms can include:

• gray or black specks floating in their vision
• a shadow on the sides or middle of the person’s vision
• flashes of light that can occur in one or both eyes

Treatment

There may be permanent damage to vision without rapid treatment.

Treatment will include reattaching the retina. A doctor may recommend freeze treatment, laser surgery, or surgery.

A person can learn more about the treatment for a detached retina here.

A concussion occurs when a person experiences an injury to the head.

Along with visual changes, symptoms of a concussion can include:

• changes in mood
• confusion
• amnesia
• headache
• dizziness
• drowsiness

Treatment

After a doctor has ensured that the injury is not severe, treatment focuses on reducing the symptoms.

A person may need to rest for roughly 24–48 hours.

A person can also take over-the-counter (OTC) analgesics to help reduce headache symptoms.

According to a 2020 article, a person should avoid taking medications that can alter a person’s cognitive function and sleep patterns, as these might hide symptoms of a concussion.

Strokes can cause vision to become blurry in one or both eyes.

Symptoms of a stroke include:

• numbness in the face, leg, or arm, typically on one side of the body
• confusion and difficulty speaking, or understanding
• difficulty seeing in one or both eyes
• difficulty walking, as well as dizziness and lack of coordination
• sudden and severe headache

If a person thinks that someone is experiencing a stroke, they should call the emergency services immediately and follow the procedure set out by the acronym FAST:

• F for face: Ask the person to smile and note if one side of the face has dropped.
• A for arms: Ask the person to raise both of their arms and note if one arm drifts downwards.
• S for speech: Ask a person to repeat a simple phrase. Make a note if they slur their speech.
• T for time: If any of the above has occurred, call the emergency services immediately.

Treatment

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), treatments are more effective within 3 hours of the onset of the first symptoms.

Treatment for a stroke will depend on the type of stroke, which part of the brain it affects and what caused the stroke.

A person can learn more about the treatments for a stroke here.

Endophthalmitis is a severe infection and inflammation of the fluid or tissue inside the eye.

As well as sudden blurry vision, symptoms may include:

• eye pain
• redness
• sensitivity to light.

According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, blindness can occur if a person does not receive treatment quickly.

Treatment

Treatment can include antibiotic or antifungal injections. Emergency surgery may be necessary.

A hyphema occurs when blood pools in the eye. Injury, trauma, and infections can cause a hyphema.

Symptoms may include:

• bleeding in the eye
• light sensitivity
• pain
• blurry vision

Treatment

To treat a hyphema, a person may need to:

• wear a shield over the eye
• rest
• raise the head of the bed to help the eye drain

A person may need also need eye drops.

If the hyphema causes high pressure in the eye, an ophthalmologist may offer to remove the blood surgically.

GCA, or temporal arteritis, is an inflammation of the blood vessels in the temples.

As well as blurry vision, a person with GCA may also experience headaches.

According to the American College of Rheumatology, it only affects adults, typically those over the age of 50.

Treatment

Treatment with corticosteroids should begin as soon as possible, to help prevent permanent damage to vision.

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a disease that can affect the retina, causing vision to become blurry.

According to the National Eye Institute, AMD is more common in older adults, and it can occur in one or both eyes.

Treatment

According to the National Eye Institute, there is no treatment for the early stages of AMD.

Lifestyle changes, such as giving up smoking, can help to slow its progression in the early stages.

If the disease progresses, a doctor may recommend injections of medications into the eye to improve symptoms, or laser treatment to slow vision loss.

Macular holes are small breaks or tears in the macula and typically affect adults over the age of 60.

People with a macular hole may notice distortion or blurriness when they look straight ahead, and straight lines may appear wavy.

Treatment

Some macular holes can repair themselves over time. However, in most cases, a doctor will recommend a surgical procedure called a vitrectomy.

The optic nerve connects the eye and the brain, transferring visual information from the retina to the brain.

Inflammation of the nerve can cause vision to become distorted or blurry.

Symptoms include:

• pain around the eyes
• loss of color vision
• flashing lights

Treatment

Optic neuritis typically improves on its own. However, if symptoms are severe, a doctor may prescribe steroids to speed up the recovery.

Eating a healthful, balanced diet, staying hydrated, and not smoking may also help.

Some eye infections may require swift medical treatment, depending on the severity of the symptoms.

Keratitis

Keratitis is inflammation or infection of the cornea.

Symptoms include tearing, redness, irritation, and pain in the eye.

Treatment will depend on the underlying reason for the inflammation but may include antibiotic, antiviral, or antifungal medication in the form of eye drops or pills.

A person can learn more about keratitis here.

Conjunctivitis

Conjunctivitis is a bacterial or viral infection that affects the blood vessels in the membrane around the eyeball. Allergies can also cause conjunctivitis.

Symptoms may include blurry vision, eye discharge, and pink or red coloration of the whites of the eyes.

A doctor may prescribe topical or oral antibiotics for a bacterial infection or recommend OTC antihistamines for conjunctivitis triggered by an allergy.

There is no treatment for a viral infection.

Orbital cellulitis

Cellulitis is a bacterial or fungal infection that can affect the eyelids and the eyeball.

Symptoms may also include bulging of the eye, trouble moving the eye, and fever.

Treatment may include antibiotics or surgery to drain fluid from the eye.

Find out more about orbital cellulitis here.

Uveitis

Uveitis is inflammation of the uvea, the middle part of the eye, which also contains the iris.

Doctors call specific inflammation of the iris, iritis.

Bacterial or fungal infections typically cause uveitis.

Symptoms may include blurry vision, pain, and sensitivity to light, and it can affect one or both eyes.

Steroids can treat uveitis.

A person can learn more about uveitis here.

Migraine attacks are sometimes preceded by an aura, which can cause blurry vision and flashing lights.

Treatment

Treatment can involve prevention and relieving the symptoms during the migraine attack.

Prevention typically involves medications and behavioral changes.

Taking prescribed medication should help to ease symptoms.

A person can learn more about migraines relief here.

Using screens for a long time or focusing on something for an extended period without a break can cause eye strain.

This may lead to sudden blurry vision, itchy eyes, or headaches.

Taking regular breaks to rest your eyes will help relieve the symptoms.

People with sudden blurry vision and one or more of the following symptoms of a stroke, should call 911 or go to their nearest emergency room:

• numbness or weakness in the face, leg, or arm, on one side of the body
• confusion and difficulty speaking or understanding others
• difficulty walking, dizziness, or lack of coordination
• a severe headache

Vision loss or blurry vision accompanied by severe eye pain needs immediate treatment.

This will help to prevent further damage to the eye or help to identify a serious underlying health condition that has caused the blurry vision.

Not all causes of sudden blurry vision need urgent medical treatment.

However, if a person with sudden blurry vision thinks they may be having a stroke, is experiencing severe eye pain, or thinks they may have a detached retina, they should call 911 or go to their nearest emergency room.

People with unexplained sudden blurry vision should seek advice from a healthcare provider, ophthalmologist or optometrist, as soon as possible, even if the episode has passed.

Disorders of peripheral (lateral) vision in humans

• August, 09

  Peripheral vision is an important part of human health and comfortable life. It is provided by nerve cells of the retina, located on the entire surface. These nerve cells are often referred to as rods, which are characterized by less clarity than cones located in the center of the retina. The main function of peripheral vision is orientation in space, especially during darkness. Often, violations of “lateral” vision are caused by damage to the retina, as well as the processes of nerve cells. The second case is much more common in medical practice.

  Types of peripheral vision disorders

  Normal vision in a person provides for the ability to see in a wide range of brightness, as well as in space without turning the head. Most often, peripheral vision disorders are associated with the appearance of areas that do not function. Initially, they are not even visible to humans – the closest description is that they look like dark spots. Over time, these areas increase, occupying between 25 and 50% of the entire visual field in one or both eyes. As a result, a person’s vision becomes “tunnel”. All objects are distinguishable only in a limited area.

  Loss of individual sections of the visual field is also called heminopsia. It most often occurs in both eyes, which indicates the reasons listed below. If there are problems in only one eye, we can talk about damage to the optic nerve.

  Causes of peripheral vision problems

  Most often peripheral vision suffers due to the following factors:

  • direct damage to the retina. The scope of the consequences may differ in each case. This can be not only impacts or debris and other irritants from the external environment. Damage is often provoked from the inside – vascular diseases are especially prominent in such situations. Most often, the cause of damage to the retina is a violation of blood circulation in the central artery and branches. Also, visual impairment is associated with similar processes in the central retinal vein. One of the consequences is retinal detachment and retinoschisis. Everything is accompanied by inflammation, dystrophy and degeneration, which in the end leads to the complete destruction of the nerve cells of the retina. Because of this peripheral vision impaired;
  • circulatory disorders due to injury, tumors or inflammation. In this case, the optic nerve is damaged;
  • increased intracranial pressure resulting in damage to the optic nerve of one or both eyes;
  • glaucoma. This disease is also characterized by increased pressure inside the eyes. It leads to damage to the optic nerve, which is observed as a deterioration in the sharpness of the image at the periphery. As glaucoma progresses, the visible boundaries of vision gradually narrow. At the same time, it will not be possible to restore normal vision without surgical intervention. Otherwise, not only peripheral, but also central vision worsens, leading to complete loss of vision;
  • brain damage resulting from circulatory disorders, trauma or oncology.

  Thus, vision problems can occur due to a traumatic brain injury, an unfortunate fall, or an unhealthy lifestyle. In the latter case, an excess of sweet and fatty foods can play a role in the deterioration of vision. Sometimes deterioration of the image can be shown also in other situations which are not connected with deterioration of a condition of an organism. This may be due to overheating in the sun in hot weather. Such cases should not be confused with the weakening of lateral vision.

  Diagnosis and treatment of peripheral vision disorders

  In many cases peripheral vision is impaired due to brain disorders, but most situations are problems with the eyes or optic nerves. Specialists are able to detect the cause of blind spots by shape and location:

  • near the central part of the eye – a ring-shaped environment indicates retinitis pigmentosa;
  • finding a blind spot at the edges of the visible area indicates problems with the choroid;
  • Occurrence directly in or near the optic nerve indicates difficulty with the optic nerve itself or macular disease.

  Diagnostics is carried out using special equipment that can catch problem areas before our eyes. The subject must also close each eye in turn, and the specialist will move the object (for example, a pen) from the periphery to the center. The purpose of this method is to establish when the patient will notice the thing being moved.

  A more accurate examination option is perimetry, which involves the kinetic method (the patient must look at one point on the device, and then he must notice the appearance of a bright spot on the periphery). Statistical perimetry is an alternative using computer models. In this case, peripheral vision is determined by responding to the appearance of lights. Differences in the brightness of the stimulating lights, together with computer processing, will help to correctly identify the causes of eye diseases and choose a method of treatment.

  To eliminate the need to involve surgeons, you can use eye drops that are suitable for treating glaucoma in the early stages. The drug stabilizes intraocular pressure in order to exclude more serious consequences. The main thing is not to self-medicate and rely on the fact that everything will pass by itself.

  If vision problems are observed with headaches, there is a reason to consult a doctor (and more than one). Also pay attention to how easy or difficult it is to move around in the dark – for example, after turning off the lights at home at night. Foresight on your part will eliminate unnecessary costs for treatment and the loss of the ability to see.

  Children’s Day Competition!

  Children’s Day is coming up soon! For this wonderful holiday, we have prepared a special creative contest. Children from the city of Lipetsk and the Lipetsk region under the age of 18 can take part.

  25.05.2022

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  New equipment: femtosecond laser FS200 WaveLight

  New equipment appeared in the Oculus Eye Microsurgery Center: femtosecond laser FS200 WaveLight !

  27. 12.2021

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  ophthalmology // Treatment of vision at the highest level

  To paraphrase a well-known expression, alas, all organs are submissive to old age – this is true, and the eyes are no exception. Over the years, age-related cataracts or retinal dystrophy can affect the eyes … To avoid loss of vision or other possible threats, you should be regularly examined by an ophthalmologist – this is the only way to protect your eyes.

  There are such eye diseases as, for example, an acute attack of glaucoma, when the clock counts: the earlier you go to the doctor, the more chances you have to keep your eyesight. So, what are the signs of visual impairment that can cause the greatest danger?

  1. Sharp deterioration of vision in one eye

  If you have already crossed the 60th anniversary and if you have at least one of the following diseases: myopia, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, there is a high risk that vision loss is caused by vascular disorders . In this case, emergency medical attention is needed – contact a doctor as soon as possible!

  2. Sensation before the eyes of a black curtain that covers some part of the field of view

  This is a terrible symptom that is often observed in retinal detachment. Here, as in the previous case, the sooner treatment is started, the more likely it is to keep the eyes healthy.

  3. Sharp pain in the eye, redness, blurred vision, may be nausea, vomiting

  This is how an attack of angle-closure glaucoma can occur. Intraocular pressure rises sharply, and this can damage the optic nerve. It is urgent to reduce intraocular pressure – up to surgical treatment. This will not go away on its own – you need to see a doctor.

  4. Gradual or abrupt narrowing of the field of vision

  If your field of vision gradually narrows, over time you will be able to see only what is directly in front of you. This is called “tubular” vision and may indicate glaucoma: narrowing of the field of view due to damage to the optic nerve is just one of its main symptoms. Treatment is also needed here, otherwise vision will deteriorate.

  Glaucoma is an insidious disease and often patients are unaware of its existence. On the website of the AILAZ Medical Center you will find a questionnaire for self-diagnosis of glaucoma.

  5. Gradual deterioration of central vision, blurring, blurring of the image (straight lines look wavy, curved)

  This may indicate a disease of the central region of the retina – the macula, which, in fact, is responsible for normal vision. This disease has an age-related character – older people are often susceptible to it. Glasses do not help, without treatment, vision is steadily declining. Today, there are many treatment options depending on the form of macular degeneration.

  Another reason for a sudden decrease in vision is a retinal tear in the central zone. If you do not immediately contact an ophthalmologist and start treatment, vision can hardly be restored.

  6. When everything is in front of the eyes, as if in a fog, the brightness and contrast of vision decreases

  Thus, cataracts can develop, causing clouding of the lens. In this case, vision falls gradually, up to the ability to only distinguish light. Here we are talking about a planned surgical intervention – removal of a cataract with subsequent implantation of an artificial lens. At the same time, it is worth seeing an ophthalmologist, because sometimes a cataract causes intraocular pressure, and this is an indication for urgent surgical treatment. In addition, a cataract causes the lens to enlarge and harden, which can make it more difficult to remove – another reason to visit the eye doctor regularly: so as not to miss the time.

  Modern technologies make it possible to remove a cataract and replace it with a transparent artificial lens painlessly and in a matter of minutes. Do not endure the discomfort of blurry vision. Decide on an examination and surgery.

  7. Dark spots, partial opacity, feeling of fog or veil before the eyes

  If the patient has diabetes, the probability of eye damage is quite high, and the longer the history of diabetes, the more likely changes in the eye. Regular visits to an ophthalmologist are a must. If necessary, the ophthalmologist will prescribe a comprehensive treatment: not only appropriate medications, but often laser treatment as well. Timely treatment will allow you to save your vision.

  8. Burning sensation, grit in the eyes, foreign body sensation, watery eyes, or conversely, a feeling of dryness

  This is a typical description of the dry eye syndrome, the symptoms of which may worsen with age. As a rule, this disease does not cause a particular danger to vision, but a severe degree of dry eye syndrome can cause some pathological conditions. An experienced ophthalmologist will conduct the necessary examination and prescribe moisturizing drops.

  On the AILAZ Medical Center website you will find a questionnaire for self-diagnosis of dry eye syndrome.

  9. When there is double vision

  When there is double vision, there can be several reasons, and it is not necessarily a “visual” problem. The reason for this may be intoxication, vascular disorders, diseases of the nervous system, pathology of the endocrine system. If double vision appears, it is better to immediately be examined by several doctors: a therapist, an ophthalmologist, a neurologist and an endocrinologist.

  10. Floaters before the eyes

  As a rule, floating spots, threads, “spiders” before the eyes are caused by the destruction of the vitreous body. This is due to age-related changes in its structure and does not cause danger. With age, the vitreous body loses its density, liquefies and does not fit as tightly to the retina as before. When its fibers stick together and lose their transparency, they cast a shadow on the retina and are perceived as defects in the visual field. This is clearly visible on a white background: snow, a sheet of paper. Destruction of the vitreous body can be caused by arterial hypertension, cervical osteochondrosis, diabetes mellitus, trauma to the head, eyes and nose.

  At the same time, a spot that suddenly appears before the eyes, a “curtain”, may be the result of a serious pathology that requires surgical treatment, for example, hemorrhage in the retina or vitreous body. In the event that symptoms appear suddenly, in one day, immediately consult an ophthalmologist.

  In any case, it is important to remember: if you experience unknown visual symptoms, it is better to immediately contact an ophthalmologist.