Blurred vision? What might it be and who should I see

Blurred vision is a common problem. When we have previously had good vision, we don’t even think about how well we see.

This changes as soon as we recognise that our vision is not as good as it was before and this can make us worried. If you already wear glasses for short (myopia) or long (hypermetropia) sightedness it may mean that you are due for an eye-test as your prescription has changed.

Seeing your usual optician is the best place to start. They will examine your eyes and test you for glasses. If they are concerned, they will recommend that you see us further investigate the problem.

If your blurred vision is associated with pain, eye redness, sensitivity to light, watering, feeling sick or double vision then it is important that you see an ophthalmologist quickly. These are ‘red flags’ and a full eye examination is needed to check for infection, high eye pressure, inflammation, cataracts and other eye conditions that need specialist advice rather than a change of glasses.

Don’t delay. With prompt specialist treatment, these conditions can be managed and the blurred vision will get better. An annual eye examination can save your sight. If it’s been a while since your last eye examination why not book an appointment today.

Start 2017 with clear vision.

More about Laura Crawley

Ms Laura Crawley is a Consultant Ophthalmologist at Clinica London, Imperial College Western Eye Hospital, and The London Clinic. Her special expertise is in treating glaucoma patients as well as patients with glaucoma and cataracts. She has a lot of experience in treating glaucoma and has published extensively in scientific journals and on medical education. She still does a lot of emergency operations at the emergency department at the Charing Cross and Western Eye Hospitals for the NHS. At Clinica London, she is responsible for glaucoma patients and glaucoma patients with cataracts. She also sees patients with general eye problems.