Blurred Vision After Travel: Eye Health Issues

Blurred vision?

After returning from my trip abroad on the 24th, my vision became blurry.
I have myopia and astigmatism, but I am not used to wearing glasses (I have been myopic since middle school), so I only wear them when necessary.
My vision was generally fine for activities like riding a scooter.
However, since returning on the 24th, my vision has started to become blurry, and by the morning of the 6th, it was extremely blurry to the point that I needed to wear glasses to see clearly (the prescription is likely from high school or college).
Currently, I cannot look at screens for long periods; my eyes feel tense and swollen, and I also cannot look at my phone for extended periods.
My sleep has been around 6-7 hours these past few days.
On the evening of the 7th, I visited a general ophthalmologist, but I felt it was a waste of 150 NT dollars because I found the sudden blurriness strange (it should have developed gradually, right?).
The doctor said that my vision with glasses was 1.0 and that my eyes were fine.
However, my concern is that I didn't wear glasses in middle school and could see normally before my trip, but after returning from my trip, my vision started to blur.
I was prescribed eye drops by the doctor, but after a short time looking at screens, the swelling in my eyes became very noticeable, and I experienced pain.
Even after resting, the situation remains the same; I still cannot focus on the computer screen for too long, and when I look at my phone, it feels like I am looking into a mirror? I remember that previously, I wouldn't see my reflection so clearly when looking at my phone screen.

Memeh, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/03/08

Dr. Wang Zhishun reply Ophthalmology

Hello, based on your description, it seems to be an issue with the eye's accommodative ability (not necessarily related to sleep).
Most cases are temporary, so I recommend taking care and resting your eyes.
If the symptoms persist, you should seek medical attention.

Reply Date: 2016/03/08

More Info

Experiencing blurred vision after traveling can be concerning, especially if you have a history of myopia (nearsightedness) and astigmatism. Your symptoms suggest that there may be several factors at play, and understanding them can help you manage your eye health better.

Firstly, it’s important to recognize that changes in vision can occur due to various reasons. Travel often involves changes in environment, lighting, and even stress levels, which can impact your eyes. For instance, if you spent a lot of time outdoors in bright sunlight or in front of screens, your eyes might be experiencing fatigue or strain. This is particularly relevant if you are not accustomed to wearing corrective lenses regularly. The sudden need to rely on your glasses after returning from your trip indicates that your eyes may be struggling to focus properly, which can happen if they are overworked or if there are changes in your visual environment.

The sensation of tightness and discomfort when looking at screens could be a sign of digital eye strain, also known as computer vision syndrome. Symptoms include blurred vision, dry eyes, and headaches, which can occur after prolonged use of digital devices. It’s crucial to take regular breaks using the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds. This helps to reduce eye strain and allows your eyes to relax.

Regarding your experience of seeing reflections or distortions on your phone screen, this could be due to several factors, including glare from the screen or even the quality of your device's display. If your vision is significantly blurred, it might be worth revisiting an eye care professional for a comprehensive eye exam. They can assess whether your prescription needs updating or if there are other underlying issues that need to be addressed.

Additionally, if you have been experiencing discomfort and swelling after using screens, it may be beneficial to consider the use of lubricating eye drops to alleviate dryness and irritation. However, it’s essential to consult with an eye care specialist before starting any new treatment.

Lastly, your concern about the rapid onset of blurred vision is valid. While some changes in vision can occur gradually, sudden changes should not be ignored. It’s essential to monitor your symptoms closely. If they persist or worsen, seeking further evaluation is crucial. An eye care professional can conduct tests to rule out any serious conditions, such as retinal issues or other ocular diseases.

In summary, blurred vision after travel can stem from a combination of factors, including digital eye strain, environmental changes, and the need for updated corrective lenses. Taking proactive steps to manage your eye health, such as regular eye exams, proper screen habits, and using appropriate eyewear, can help mitigate these issues. If your symptoms continue, don’t hesitate to seek further medical advice to ensure your vision remains healthy.

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