Through a Hazy Sunrise: The Tale of Blurry Vision in the Morning
Waking up to a new day with a fresh perspective is a beautiful experience.
However, for some people, this excitement may be hindered by blurry vision in the morning.
This phenomenon can be distressing and may raise concerns about eye health and overall well-being.
In this article, we will discuss the common causes of blurry vision in the morning and explore some remedies to help alleviate the issue.
What causes blurry vision in the morning
Blurry vision after waking up in the morning can be caused by various underlying reasons. Here are some of them:
Dry eyes
One of the common reasons for blurry vision upon waking is dry eyes.
During sleep, our eyes are closed for an extended period, leading to reduced tear production.
As a result, the eye’s surface can become dry, causing blurriness and discomfort.
Allergies
Allergic reactions can cause eye irritation and redness, leading to blurry vision.
Allergens like dust mites, pet dander, and pollen can accumulate on bedding and pillows, triggering eye allergies during sleep.
Refractive errors
People with nearsightedness (Myopia), farsightedness (Hyperopia), or Astigmatism may experience blurry vision upon waking.
It happens particularly if they don’t wear corrective lenses or remove them before sleeping.
Conjunctivitis
This common eye infection can lead to blurry vision.
It happens because, in Conjunctivitis, a crust is formed during the night that can prevent your eyes from opening in the morning, potentially leading to blurred vision.
Contact lens-related issues
Wearing contact lenses, particularly extended-wear lenses, can cause blurry vision in the morning.
Prolonged lens use reduces oxygen supply to the cornea, leading to dryness and irritation.
Improper cleaning or using contact lenses beyond their recommended replacement schedule can worsen these issues.
Increased Intraocular Pressure (IOP)
The IOP increases during sleep, which can cause temporary blurry vision in the morning.
In some individuals, the pressure inside the eye may rise while lying down, leading to distortions in vision until the pressure normalizes after getting up.
Sleeping on your face
Sleeping in a face-down position may lead to a condition referred to as Floppy Eyelid Syndrome (FES), characterized by a loss of elasticity in the upper eyelid.
This can result in blurry vision upon waking, accompanied by symptoms such as tearing and eye burning.
Fuchsâ corneal dystrophy
Fuchs’ corneal dystrophy is a genetic eye condition where cells in the cornea’s inner layer progressively deteriorate over time.
This can result in corneal swelling and fluid buildup, leading to blurry vision, particularly in the morning.
As the day progresses and the cornea dries out, vision may improve.
Taking certain medications before bedtime
Some medications, especially those that cause dryness as a side effect, can contribute to blurry vision.
According to the American Optometric Association, antidepressants, antihistamines, etc., can reduce tear production leading to dry eyes with blurred vision upon waking.
Drinking alcohol before bedtime
Consuming alcohol before bedtime can lead to dehydration, which, in turn, may cause dry eyes and contribute to blurry vision.
Alcohol can also disrupt normal sleep patterns, impacting eye health and overall well-being.
Blood sugar problems
Fluctuations in blood sugar levels, especially in individuals with Diabetes, can affect the shape of the lens in the eye, leading to blurry vision.
The vision can go back to normal after the blood sugar stabilizes.
Oil gland problems
Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD) is a condition where the oil-producing glands in the eyelids do not function correctly, leading to dry eye.
MGD can cause blurry vision due to tear evaporation.
Sleeping underneath a fan
Sleeping directly under a fan can contribute to dry eyes and blurry vision.
The fan’s airflow can lead to eye dryness and discomfort upon waking
How to fix blurry vision after waking up
Here are some quick remedies to fix blurry vision in the morning.
- Blinking exercises: Upon waking, practice blinking rapidly for a few seconds to combat dry eyes, a prevalent cause of blurry vision in the morning
- Warm compress: Applying a warm compress over closed eyelids for a few minutes can help stimulate tear production and relieve dryness
- Eye Drops: Artificial tears or lubricating eye drops can be used before bedtime to keep the eyes moist throughout the night and reduce morning blurriness
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- Allergen control: Regularly washing bedding, using allergen-proof pillowcases and mattress covers, and keeping pets out of the bedroom can help minimize the impact of allergies on morning vision
- Hydration: Staying well-hydrated during the day can help maintain sufficient tear production and prevent dry eyes in the morning
- Proper contact lens care: If you wear contact lenses, ensure you follow the prescribed cleaning and replacement schedule and avoid sleeping in them
Takeaway
Blurry vision in the morning can be attributed to various causes, ranging from common issues like dry eyes and allergies to more severe conditions like Fuchs’ corneal dystrophy.
The good news is that many instances of blurry vision can be easily addressed with simple remedies.
Blinking exercises, warm compresses, and the use of lubricating eye drops can go a long way in alleviating the discomfort.
Proper allergen control, hydration, and responsible contact lens care can also contribute to clearer vision upon waking.
While some cases may require medical attention, most individuals can take proactive steps to ensure clearer vision in the morning.
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