Blurry Vision: Causes, Symptoms, and Solutions

Blurred vision

Initially, I consulted a doctor because I felt that the text was flickering.
After visiting several ophthalmologists, I was told it was due to eye strain, and I was advised to get checked at a major hospital.
However, all the examinations showed no abnormalities.
I then went to a neurologist for an MRI and EEG, but nothing was found.
Finally, I visited a psychiatrist, yet the issue remained unresolved.
Upon reflection, I realize that the text appears more blurry rather than flickering (at night, when lying down and moving my eyes, I sometimes see flickering on both sides).
The issue occurs at both near and far distances (I have also worn glasses), and the timing is inconsistent, with periods of improvement and worsening.
Currently, there are signs of gradual deterioration (the episodes are becoming more frequent), making it uncomfortable to keep my eyes open.
I often take leave to stay at home, and even after sleeping for twenty hours, there is no improvement.
I would appreciate any suggestions or directions from a physician.

Ting, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/03/31

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology

Hello, based on your description, it seems to be a neurological issue.
However, I cannot provide you with an accurate diagnosis.
If you want to identify the cause, it is necessary to have an examination at a teaching hospital's neuro-ophthalmology department.
The ophthalmology department at Puzi Hospital in Taiwan is open on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday mornings from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM, and on Wednesday afternoons from 2:00 PM to 4:30 PM.
Please note that online responses can only serve as a reference; it is essential to seek medical attention at a healthcare facility if needed.
I hope to have the opportunity to assist you.
Gao Pi-Lin

Reply Date: 2021/03/31

More Info

Blurry vision can be a distressing symptom, and understanding its potential causes is essential for effective management. Based on your description, it seems you've already undergone a comprehensive evaluation, including visits to ophthalmologists, neurologists, and psychiatrists, which is a prudent approach. However, the persistence and worsening of your symptoms indicate that further exploration may be necessary.

Possible Causes of Blurry Vision
1. Refractive Errors: The most common cause of blurry vision is refractive errors, such as myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), or astigmatism. Even if you've had your eyes checked and prescribed glasses, it's worth revisiting your optometrist to ensure your prescription is accurate, especially if your vision has changed.

2. Eye Fatigue (Asthenopia): Prolonged screen time, reading, or studying can lead to eye strain, resulting in blurry vision. Symptoms often include discomfort, headaches, and difficulty focusing. Taking regular breaks using the 20-20-20 rule (every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds) can help alleviate this.

3. Dry Eye Syndrome: Insufficient tear production can lead to dry eyes, which may cause blurry vision. This condition can be exacerbated by environmental factors, prolonged screen use, or certain medications. Artificial tears or lubricating eye drops may provide relief.

4. Visual Disturbances: Conditions like migraines can cause visual disturbances, including blurry vision or flickering lights. If you experience headaches alongside your visual symptoms, this could be a contributing factor.

5. Neurological Issues: Although your MRI and EEG results were normal, certain neurological conditions can still manifest as visual disturbances. Conditions such as multiple sclerosis or transient ischemic attacks (TIAs) can cause temporary visual changes, but these are typically accompanied by other neurological symptoms.

6. Psychological Factors: Anxiety and stress can manifest physically, including through visual disturbances. If you are experiencing significant stress related to your studies or personal life, this could contribute to your symptoms. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) or other forms of counseling may help manage anxiety and its physical manifestations.

Recommendations
1. Follow-Up with an Eye Care Professional: If you haven't already, consider a thorough eye examination with an ophthalmologist who specializes in visual disturbances. They may perform additional tests, such as visual field tests or optical coherence tomography (OCT), to assess the health of your retina and optic nerve.

2. Consider a Comprehensive Neurological Evaluation: If your symptoms persist, it may be beneficial to consult a neurologist again, focusing on visual processing issues. A neuro-ophthalmologist, who specializes in vision problems related to the nervous system, could provide valuable insights.

3. Manage Stress and Fatigue: Implement stress-reduction techniques such as mindfulness, meditation, or yoga. Ensure you are getting adequate sleep and taking breaks during study sessions to prevent eye strain.

4. Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle: A balanced diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and vitamins can support eye health. Staying hydrated and managing screen time can also help.

5. Explore Psychological Support: If anxiety is a significant factor, consider seeking support from a mental health professional. They can help you develop coping strategies for managing stress and anxiety, which may, in turn, alleviate some of your visual symptoms.

6. Document Your Symptoms: Keep a journal of your symptoms, noting when they occur, their duration, and any associated factors (like stress levels or screen time). This information can be invaluable for healthcare providers in diagnosing and managing your condition.

In conclusion, while blurry vision can stem from various causes, a thorough and multidisciplinary approach is essential for effective management. Continue to advocate for your health, and don't hesitate to seek further evaluations if your symptoms persist or worsen.

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