Dry eye and blurred vision are two unpleasant symptoms that can sometimes appear simultaneously. Chronic dry eye itself is a common eye condition that affects over 5 million people in the US every year.
When you have dry eye, blurred vision may just be a symptom of the condition. But if you have dry, itchy eyes and blurry, blurry vision, it could also mean that there is another disease, systemic in nature, that is causing the condition in the eye. This article will cover everything you need to know if you have both symptoms - and dryness eyes and blurred vision.
Dry eyes and blurred vision are symptoms of a condition called dry eye syndrome.
Other common symptoms of dry eye syndrome include:
- eye redness
- itchy eyes
- pain in the eyes
- feeling as if something is stuck in your eye
- sensitivity to light (photophobia)
- blurred vision that improves with blinking
When blurred vision occurs along with dry eye, it can also indicate the presence of other conditions, including lupus and Sjogren's syndrome. If you experience any of the above symptoms, you should contact an ophthalmologist who, based on a complete examination and medical history, will make a diagnosis, determine the cause of dry eye and the method of treatment. There are also numerous tests that examine the dryness of the eye, thus the stage of dry eye, on which the treatment depends.
There are several ways in which you can treat dry eyes and blurred vision at home, but, as already said, the best treatment will be done by an ophthalmologist.
Eye drops
The first line of treatment for chronic dry eye is usually artificial tears.
Lifestyle changes
Quitting smoking, reducing screen time and drinking more water can help keep your eyes hydrated.
Nutritional supplements
Vitamin A and omega-3 fatty acids can reduce inflammation and contribute to overall eye health.
Home remedies
Applying warm compresses and resting your eyes are just some of the home remedies you can try to reduce the symptoms of dry eye.
Causes
- excessive screen use can increase the likelihood of blurred vision and dry eye symptoms;
- the use of contact lenses can cause dry eyes and blurred vision;
- dehydration (excessive loss of water from the body) can lead to reduced tear production;
- lack of vitamin A in the diet;
- autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis or lupus;
- Certain medications can cause dry eye as a side effect.
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