Corneal Issues: Why Morning Vision is Blurry and Solutions

Q: Corneal Issues: Why Morning Vision is Blurry and Solutions

Hello Ying： Based on your description, it seems that the prescription for your orthokeratology lenses may not be suitable. <br>It is likely that the prescription is too strong, causing you to experience some degree of hyperopia. <br>Therefore, when you first remove the lenses, bo

Corneal issues

I wear orthokeratology lenses while sleeping at night, but when I wake up in the morning, my vision is blurry both for near and far distances.
This condition usually improves significantly by the afternoon, especially after taking a nap, when my vision becomes more normal.
Why does this happen? If I wake up in the morning and find my vision is really blurry, is there a quick way to improve it? This affects my work efficiency during the day.
If I wake up early and remove the lenses, then go back to sleep, will that help? If so, how long should I sleep to restore normal vision?

Ying, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/05/15

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology

Hello Ying: Based on your description, it seems that the prescription for your orthokeratology lenses may not be suitable.
It is likely that the prescription is too strong, causing you to experience some degree of hyperopia.
Therefore, when you first remove the lenses, both distant and near vision may be unclear.
By the afternoon, the hyperopic effect gradually diminishes, leading to clearer vision.
The best approach is to measure your prescription immediately after removing the lenses to see if it aligns with what has been described.
If it does, then changing the lenses would be the most effective solution.
If you cannot change them temporarily, you may need to remove them earlier; the timing varies from person to person, and you can experiment to find a suitable time that allows for clear vision upon waking.
However, this is not the correct way to resolve the issue, and it is best to get a new prescription.

Taiwan E-Hospital Puzi Hospital Ophthalmology: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM; Wednesday from 2:00 PM to 4:30 PM.
Online responses are for reference only; it is necessary to seek medical attention at a healthcare facility if needed.
I hope to have the opportunity to assist you.

Gao Pilin

Reply Date: 2019/05/15

More Info

Waking up with blurry vision can be a common experience, especially for individuals who wear orthokeratology lenses (also known as corneal reshaping lenses) overnight. These lenses are designed to temporarily reshape the cornea to reduce refractive errors such as myopia (nearsightedness). However, several factors can contribute to morning vision blurriness, and understanding these can help you find effective solutions.

Reasons for Morning Blurriness
1. Corneal Hydration: When you wear orthokeratology lenses overnight, they create a temporary change in the shape of your cornea. During sleep, the cornea may become slightly dehydrated or swollen due to the lens's pressure and the lack of oxygen. This can lead to temporary blurriness upon waking.

2. Tear Film Instability: Overnight, your eyes produce fewer tears, which can lead to dryness. Upon waking, the tear film may not be stable, causing blurry vision until the eyes are adequately lubricated.

3. Lens Residue: If the lenses are not cleaned properly or if there is a buildup of deposits, this can affect vision clarity upon waking.

4. Ocular Surface Issues: Conditions like dry eye syndrome or other ocular surface disorders can exacerbate blurriness in the morning, especially after wearing contact lenses.

5. Refractive Changes: The cornea may take some time to return to its normal shape after removing the lenses, leading to temporary blurriness.

Solutions for Morning Blurriness
1. Proper Lens Care: Ensure that your orthokeratology lenses are cleaned and stored correctly. Regularly replace them as recommended by your eye care professional to avoid deposits that can affect vision.

2. Hydration: Consider using preservative-free artificial tears before removing your lenses in the morning. This can help hydrate the cornea and improve clarity more quickly.

3. Gradual Wake-Up: Instead of immediately getting out of bed, take a few moments to blink and allow your eyes to adjust. This can help stabilize your tear film and improve vision.

4. Avoiding Immediate Activity: If possible, avoid engaging in visually demanding tasks immediately after waking. Give your eyes a few minutes to adjust.

5. Adjusting Sleep Patterns: If you find that your vision improves significantly after a nap, consider adjusting your sleep schedule. If you wake up early, you might benefit from going back to sleep for a short period before starting your day.

6. Consulting an Eye Care Professional: If morning blurriness persists or worsens, it’s essential to consult with an eye care professional. They can assess your corneal health, check for any underlying conditions, and determine if your current lens regimen is appropriate.

Regarding Your Specific Questions
- Removing Lenses and Going Back to Sleep: If you remove your lenses and go back to sleep, the time it takes for your vision to normalize can vary. Generally, a short nap (30 minutes to an hour) may help, but it’s essential to listen to your body and see how you feel.

- Impact on Work Efficiency: If blurry vision is affecting your daily activities, it’s crucial to address this issue promptly. Consider scheduling an appointment with your eye care provider to discuss your symptoms and explore potential adjustments to your lens wear or alternative solutions.

In summary, while experiencing blurry vision upon waking can be frustrating, understanding the underlying causes and implementing some practical solutions can help improve your situation. Always prioritize your eye health and seek professional advice when needed.

Similar Q&A

Morning Blurry Vision: Causes and Solutions for Eye Health

Hello Doctor: I have approximately -500 myopia in both eyes and I frequently look at the computer for work, as well as switch between my phone and computer during leisure time. Last weekend, I realized I was staring at my phone screen excessively, almost all the time I was awake....

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology
Hello: Based on your examinations at two clinics, and the doctors confirming that there are no issues with your eyes, it is likely that there are indeed no problems. Your condition can be explained by vitreous degeneration, commonly known as floaters, so there is no need to worry...

Why Do I Experience Blurry Vision Upon Waking Up?

Hello Doctor: I have dry eye syndrome and high myopia. When I turn on the lights in the morning, I notice that my vision is blurry (it feels foggy) for about 3 to 5 minutes until it gradually returns to normal after I wash my face. Could you please explain the reasons for experie...

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology
Hello: It could be due to dry eyes or the presence of discharge, which may cause blurriness. After washing your face, your vision gradually returns to normal. However, it could also be related to floaters; upon waking, the floaters may settle down, leading to clearer vision. It i...

Morning Blurry Vision: Understanding Single Eye Focus Issues

Hello Doctor, in the past two weeks, I have experienced difficulty focusing in one eye upon waking up in the morning. It occurs in either eye, approximately four to five times, and each episode resolves within about two hours. The night before these episodes, I usually spend a lo...

Dr. Cai Wenyuan reply Ophthalmology
Hello: Your symptoms are not common. If they persist without improvement, you should seek medical examination. Wishing you safety and health. Sincerely, Dr. Cai Wenyuan, Director of the Ophthalmology Department, Taoyuan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Does Using Your Phone in the Morning Affect Eye Health and Vision?

I have a habit of using my phone in the morning right after I wake up, but I don't spend more than half an hour on it, and my posture is good with ample lighting. I haven't experienced any discomfort in my eyes. However, recently I've noticed some blurriness in my ...

Dr. Cai Wenyuan reply Ophthalmology
Blurred vision may be caused by myopia, and it is advisable to avoid close-up activities, including looking at a smartphone. It is recommended to seek medical examination.