If you’ve been experiencing blurry vision that alternates eyes, what are the odds that this could be caused by a tumor or transient ischemic attack, vs. a more benign cause?
“There are innumerable causes of blurry vision in one or both eyes,” says Kaushal M. Kulkarni, MD, board certified ophthalmologist and neuro-ophthalmologist in private practice in New York.
“Almost all eye conditions can result in blurry vision, and only an eye care professional can differentiate between these causes based on your exam and discussion with you,” continues Dr. Kulkarni.
“If you have blurry vision in either eye that does not go away, you should seek medical attention immediately.”
Alternating Blurry Vision and Tumors, TIA, Aneurysm
“That being said, mild blurry vision that alternates eyes is rarely a medical emergency, and it is unlikely that it would represent something dangerous such as a tumor, stroke or aneurysm,” says Dr. Kulkarni.
Blurry vision in both eyes, and especially if sudden and not alternating, can indicate a stroke or TIA, brain tumor or aneurysm.
“One of the most common causes of blurry vision that alternates eyes is dry eye,” continues Dr. Kulkarni.
“Dry eye is a multifactorial condition that leads to inflammation of the surface of the eye and the tear film.
“There can by many symptoms, but the most common symptoms are intermittent blurry vision (that sometimes gets better with blinking or focusing), a sandy, gritty or gravely sensation in the eyes, light sensitivity, tearing and watering of the eye, redness or sharp stabbing eye pain.”
LASIK
Recent LASIK surgery can result in blurred vision that comes and goes.
This is a normal outcome of recent LASIK and is temporary in the vast majority of cases.
Blurry vision in one eye and then next day in the other occurred to me days after my LASIK procedure, but soon went away, and there have been no issues since.
Treatment for Dry Eye
“After consulting with an eye care professional, dry eye can often be treated with over the counter lubricating drops, such a Systane, Blink, Refresh, Genteal or Soothe,” says Dr. Kulkarni.
“It is important to avoid using drops such as Visine on a regular basis, as these can make your symptoms worse over the long-term.”
Some eye drops, especially those with preservatives like benzalkonium chloride (BAK), can worsen dry eye with extended use.
These preservatives may damage the eye’s surface and disrupt the tear film, leading to increased irritation.
Frequent use can also reduce the eye’s natural tear production, creating a cycle of worsening dryness.
Dr. Kulkarni specializes in providing refined medical and surgical eye care, and has a special interest in optic nerve regeneration. He completed subspecialty training in neuro-ophthalmology at the prestigious Bascom Palmer Eye Institute in Miami, FL.
Lorra Garrick has been covering medical, fitness and cybersecurity topics for many years, having written thousands of articles for print magazines and websites, including as a ghostwriter. She’s also a former ACE-certified personal trainer.
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