Blurry vision in one eye can feel unsettling, especially if it appears suddenly or seems to worsen over time. Whether it comes on gradually or arrives without warning, noticing a change in the clarity of your vision in one eye can raise many questions.
Understanding what causes sudden blurred vision in one eye and what steps you can take next is essential in protecting your long-term eye health and maintaining peace of mind.
In this guide, we’ll explore the common reasons behind blurry vision in one eye, the possible warning signs to watch out for, and why timely action can make a real difference.
Understanding Blurry Vision In One Eye
Blurry vision in one eye may present as hazy, unfocused, or slightly distorted sight. It can affect your central vision, peripheral vision, or both.
Some people describe it as looking through foggy glass or a smudged lens, while others may notice more specific signs such as double vision, blind spots, or cloudy vision.
This kind of vision change might develop gradually or have a sudden onset. Either way, it’s important to take blurry vision seriously and seek advice if the cause isn’t immediately clear.
Causes Of Blurred Vision In One Eye
Common causes of blurry vision are:
Cataracts
Cataracts happen when the natural lens of your eye becomes cloudy, leading to blurry eyesight.
Although cataracts typically affect both eyes, they can progress faster in one eye, resulting in more noticeable blurred vision in just one.
Dry Eye
When your eyes don’t produce enough quality tears, or the tears evaporate quickly, it can cause dry eye symptoms.
These may include blurry vision in one eye, light sensitivity, eye pain, and the feeling that something is in your eye. Artificial tears and environmental adjustments may help soothe the discomfort.
Laser Eye Surgery
If you’ve recently undergone laser eye surgery, you might experience blurry vision in one eye temporarily.
This is usually part of the healing process as your eye adjusts to the changes. However, consistent blurriness or discomfort should be discussed with your eye doctor.
Lens Replacement
Lens replacement procedures, commonly used to treat cataracts or significant refractive errors, can sometimes lead to temporary vision changes.
This might include blurry or hazy vision as your eye recovers and adapts to the new intraocular lens.
Implantable Collamer Lenses (ICL)
ICL is another option for correcting vision, particularly in people who aren’t candidates for LASIK.
While most people enjoy clearer vision afterwards, blurry vision in one eye may occur postoperatively, especially in the early stages of healing.
Recognising The Warning Signs
Keep an eye out for these symptoms alongside blurry vision:
- Sudden vision changes
- Eye pain or discomfort
- Flashing lights or floaters
- Dark or blind spots
- Vision loss
- Light sensitivity
- Hazy vision or cloudy vision
- Vision that becomes worse over time
These could be early signs of a condition that needs medical help. Don’t ignore any warning signs, especially if they appear suddenly or seem to worsen.
Temporary VS. Persistent Blurriness
Distorted vision can sometimes occur due to something as simple as fatigue, dry eyes, or contact lenses that aren’t sitting correctly. These issues are often short-lived and may resolve with rest or eye drops.
If blurry vision in one eye continues, it could point to something more complex. It’s wise to speak with a qualified eye doctor who can assess your vision, identify any concerns, and guide you through your options.
Lifestyle And Eye Health
Looking after your general health can play a role in your visual wellness, too.
- Stay hydrated to prevent dry eyes
- Take breaks from digital devices to avoid eye strain
- Maintain your blood pressure and blood sugar levels
- Stick to a diet rich in antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids
- Wear sunglasses to protect your eyes from UV damage
- Visit your eye specialist regularly for comprehensive eye exams
When To Seek Medical Attention
If you notice sudden blurry vision in one eye, especially if it’s accompanied by:
- Severe headache
- Dizziness or loss of balance
- Sudden loss of vision
- Slurred speech
- Confusion or difficulty speaking
These may be signs of a medical emergency and require immediate medical attention.
How Can You Fix Blurry Vision Naturally?
While not all causes of blurry vision in one eye can be fixed naturally, some steps may support your overall eye health:
- Use artificial tears if your eyes feel dry
- Rest your eyes regularly if you work long hours on screens
- Stay physically active to support healthy circulation
- Maintain a healthy diet that supports visual function
Though these steps won’t replace professional care, they can complement it and help you feel more in control of your eye health.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can blurry vision in one eye improve on its own?
Yes, in some cases, especially if it’s caused by fatigue or mild dry eye. But if it lingers or gets worse, it’s best to have it assessed professionally.
Can contact lenses cause blurry vision in one eye?
They can. If a contact lens is dirty, torn, or not sitting properly, it may lead to blurry vision in one eye.
It’s always a good idea to check the lens and speak with your eye care provider if the blurriness continues.
What does it mean if my eye suddenly goes blurry, then clears up?
This could be a sign of dry eye, temporary eye strain, or even changes in tear film quality.
While brief episodes may be harmless, frequent occurrences could suggest an underlying issue that deserves attention.
What are ‘flashing lights’?
Flashing lights can occur when the retina is stimulated abnormally, often due to vitreous changes or retinal traction.
If you notice flashing lights and blurry vision in one eye, especially suddenly, seek medical attention promptly.
Can glaucoma cause blurry vision in one eye?
Yes, it can. Glaucoma is a condition that affects the optic nerve, which is responsible for transmitting visual information from your eye to your brain.
Glaucoma may not cause noticeable symptoms in its early stages, but as it progresses, it can lead to blurry vision, sometimes starting in one eye.
Conclusion
Blurry vision in one eye can be unsettling, but you’re not alone, and you’re not without options. Whether it develops gradually or seems to appear without warning, your vision deserves attention.
From cataracts to dry eyes, and laser surgery to more serious conditions like diabetic eye disease or retinal detachment, understanding the cause is the first step towards clarity.
By tuning into your symptoms and seeking timely advice, you’re empowering yourself to protect your long-term eye health.
If you’ve noticed blurry vision in one eye or sudden changes in how you see the world, now is the perfect time to explore your next step.
Ready to talk to someone about your vision? Reach out to Eye Laser Specialists at 03 9070 5788 or 03 9070 0910 to schedule an eye health consultation and explore what’s right for you.
Note: Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
References
Keep Your Eyes Healthy [Internet]. National Eye Institute. 2024 [cited 2025 Jul 11]. Available from: https://www.nei.nih.gov/learn-about-eye-health/healthy-vision/keep-your-eyes-healthy
Nall R. Your Guide to Blurry or Hazy Vision [Internet]. Healthline. 2024 [cited 2025 Jul 11]. Available from: https://www.healthline.com/health/hazy-vision
Yuko E. 12 Causes of Blurred Vision in One Eye [Internet]. Verywell Health. 2025 [cited 2025 Jul 11]. Available from: https://www.verywellhealth.com/blurry-vision-in-one-eye-5097119
