Blurry vision in the morning: Causes and treatments
Life goes by in a blur, but that doesn't mean you should put up with anything less than crystal-clear vision. Many people experience blurry vision in the morning, which makes it difficult to focus on everything from your to-do list to that much-needed cup of java. This guide explains the most common causes of morning blurry vision and describes three recommended treatments.
Understanding blurry vision in the morning
Definition and characteristics
If you've ever woken up, rubbed your eyes, and had to squint to see your alarm clock, you may have personal experience with morning blurry vision. This symptom, which prevents you from seeing things clearly, usually occurs after several hours of sleep. For many people, morning blurry vision lasts just a few minutes, but it's possible to experience blurriness all morning.
Frequency and prevalence
Morning blurry vision is extremely common. In most cases, it's also harmless. Although blurry vision in the morning may signal an underlying vision problem, it often occurs due to factors you can easily correct.
Common causes of blurry vision in the morning
Dry eyes
While you sleep, your eyelids work overtime to keep your delicate eye tissue moist and protect it from dust and other irritating particles. If you have nocturnal lagophthalmos (gesundheit!), however, you may not be able to close your eyes all the way. This contributes to dry eye, a common cause of blurry vision in the morning.
You may also experience dry eye if you don't have enough tears. Several medical conditions, including Sjogren's syndrome and lupus, contribute to reduced tear production. You may also develop this problem if you have sleep apnea, a disorder that causes you to stop breathing multiple times during the night.
Refraction changes
In the eye care world, refractive errors are problems that prevent light from focusing correctly. This makes things look a little blurry. Refractive errors are common in older adults, but it's also possible to experience refractive changes in your 40s. This is when people typically develop presbyopia, a condition that makes it difficult to see things that are close to your face. Myopia — nearsightedness for those of you who aren't eye experts — may also get worse as you age.
Treating blurry vision in the morning
Eye drops and hydration
If you have dry eye, try drinking more water. When you don't drink enough H2O, you may not be able to produce as many tears, allowing your eyes to dry out unnecessarily. It's also helpful to use lubricating eye drops. For severe dry eye, use the drops even when your eyes feel moist. This can prevent them from drying out, leaving you to see things more clearly when you wake up.
Eye exams and prescription updates
Although blurry vision in the morning is usually nothing to worry about, it's important to get regular eye exams. Eye care professionals have several tools available to help them determine if you have any underlying medical problems or just need to make some lifestyle changes. If necessary, update your lens prescription to make your vision sharper.
Coping strategies and prevention
Morning eye exercises
Exercise can't fix refractive errors, but it can help you strengthen the muscles around your eyes, making it easier to focus when you wake up. Don't worry — you don't need to squish yourself into a Spandex outfit and jump around the house. All you have to do is focus on your thumb for 15 seconds while holding it about 10 inches away from your face. Then, choose a target that's 20 feet away from you and focus on it for another 15 seconds. Repeat this process several times.
Protective eyewear
Another option is to wear moisture chamber glasses, which blocks out wind and retains moisture. Wearing these glasses prevents dry eye, which may help you combat morning blurry vision.
Managing morning blurry vision
Dry eye and refraction changes are the most common causes of blurry vision in the morning. Addressing these issues may eliminate the need to squint at everything when you're busy getting ready for the day ahead. If morning blur persists, however, it's important to see an eye care professional for a complete exam. After your exam, use 1-800 Contacts to find your preferred brand of contact lenses.
Frequently asked questions
Can using screens before bed worsen morning blurry vision?
Yes. The blue light from tablets, smartphones, and other electronic devices may contribute to dry eye, a common cause of blurry vision in the morning. Therefore, your eye care professional may recommend putting away these devices well in advance of your bedtime.
Can allergies contribute to blurry vision in the morning?
Yes. If you're allergic to dust mites, your allergy symptoms may get worse at night, leaving you with blurry vision in the morning. This problem also occurs after exposure to other allergens, such as pet dander and mildew.
Is morning blurry vision a sign of a serious eye condition?
In many cases, morning blurry vision is benign, but there are times it's caused by a more serious eye condition. For example, it may be a sign of glaucoma, infection, or macular degeneration.