Experiencing blurriness in one eye while wearing contact lenses can be a puzzling issue. A variety of factors can contribute to this problem, from simple, easily resolvable issues to more complex underlying eye conditions. Understanding the potential causes is important for addressing the blurriness effectively and ensuring continued eye comfort and visual clarity.
Issues with the Contact Lens
Blurriness in a single eye often relates directly to the contact lens itself. An incorrect prescription or changes in vision can render the existing prescription unsuitable. Even a slight mismatch between the lens power and the eye’s refractive error can lead to noticeable blurriness.
An improper lens fit can also cause vision to be unclear. If a contact lens is too tight, it can restrict tear and oxygen flow to the cornea, leading to discomfort and blurry vision. Conversely, a lens that is too loose may move excessively on the eye, causing fluctuating blurriness as the lens shifts out of optimal position.
A dirty or damaged lens often results in diminished clarity. Debris, such as dust or protein and lipid deposits, can accumulate on the lens surface, scattering light and obstructing vision. Scratches or tears on the lens material can distort the optical surface and lead to blurriness in the affected eye.
Inserting a contact lens inside out is another common error that impairs vision. A lens inserted incorrectly will not conform properly to the eye’s curvature, resulting in discomfort and an unstable tear film, which causes blurry vision. Additionally, using expired or old lenses beyond their recommended replacement schedule can degrade the lens material, leading to reduced oxygen permeability and optical clarity.
Underlying Eye Conditions
Beyond issues with the contact lens, various underlying eye conditions can cause unilateral blurriness. Dry eye syndrome, characterized by insufficient tear production or poor tear quality, can lead to fluctuating blurriness. When the ocular surface lacks adequate lubrication, the tear film becomes unstable, disrupting the smooth optical surface needed for clear vision.
Changes in astigmatism, an imperfection in the curvature of the cornea or lens, can also affect vision with contact lenses. Subtle changes in corneal shape can cause existing toric contact lenses to no longer provide optimal clarity. This requires an updated prescription to address the new curvature.
Eye infections or inflammation, such as conjunctivitis or keratitis, frequently present with unilateral blurriness. These conditions can cause swelling, discharge, and irritation, which interfere with light transmission and focus. A foreign body, like a speck of dirt or an eyelash trapped under the contact lens, can also irritate the eye, leading to discomfort and localized blurriness.
Corneal abrasions or other damage to the clear outer layer of the eye can cause acute blurriness. Even minor scratches on the cornea can disrupt its smooth surface, scattering light and making vision hazy. Ocular allergies can also trigger an inflammatory response, leading to redness, itching, and temporary blurriness from swelling and increased tear production.
When to Consult an Eye Care Professional
If blurriness in one eye persists despite simple troubleshooting, such as cleaning or reinserting the contact lens, consult an eye care professional. Ongoing blurriness could indicate a significant underlying issue that requires medical attention. Prompt evaluation helps diagnose the cause and prevent complications.
Certain accompanying symptoms alongside blurriness warrant immediate professional consultation:
Severe eye pain
Persistent redness
Unusual discharge from the eye
Increased sensitivity to light
Sudden and significant loss of vision in one eye
Seeing halos around lights
Experiencing new floaters in your visual field
Delaying professional evaluation for these symptoms can lead to serious complications, including permanent vision impairment. Early diagnosis and treatment are important for preserving eye health and ensuring the best visual outcome. An eye care professional can accurately diagnose the problem and recommend an appropriate course of action.
Regular eye examinations are important for maintaining overall eye health and detecting issues early. These routine check-ups identify changes in prescription, assess the health of the eye’s structures, and address emerging conditions before they significantly impact vision. They also ensure that contact lenses remain appropriate for your eyes.
Maintaining Clear Vision
Proper lens care and hygiene are fundamental to preventing unilateral blurriness and maintaining clear vision. Always clean, disinfect, and store contact lenses according to instructions from your eye care professional and the lens manufacturer. This helps remove debris and microbial contaminants that can accumulate on the lens surface.
Adhering strictly to the prescribed wearing schedule for your contact lenses is important. Overwearing lenses or sleeping in lenses not approved for overnight wear can reduce oxygen flow to the cornea and increase the risk of complications such as infections or corneal swelling, which can lead to blurriness. Replacing lenses as directed ensures they remain optically clear and safe for wear.
General body hydration can indirectly support eye health and tear film stability. Staying adequately hydrated helps maintain the body’s fluid balance, contributing to the consistent production of healthy tears. This can help prevent dry eye symptoms that might otherwise cause blurry vision.
Avoiding environmental irritants like smoke, dust, and strong chemical fumes can also protect the eyes and contact lenses. Exposure to these irritants can cause eye irritation, allergic reactions, or deposit accumulation on lenses, all of which can lead to blurriness. Protecting your eyes in such environments can help maintain clear vision.