Why is my vision blurry?
Blurry vision can sneak up on you, maybe you’ve noticed that reading your phone takes a bit more effort, or distant signs aren’t quite as sharp as they used to be. While it’s common and often easily corrected, blurry vision can have a range of causes, from natural changes in your eyes to more serious conditions that need attention.
At Bright Eyes Optics, we help patients in Mona Vale and the Northern Beaches get to the bottom of their blurred vision and find clear, comfortable sight again.
Let’s explore some of the most common reasons why your vision might be blurry.
1. Presbyopia — Age-Related Near Vision Changes
If you’ve found yourself holding your phone or reading material further away to see it clearly, presbyopia could be to blame.
This natural part of ageing usually begins around the age of 40 and happens when the lens inside your eye becomes less flexible, making it harder to focus on near objects.
Common signs include:
Difficulty reading small print
Eye strain or headaches after close work
Needing brighter light to read
The good news? Presbyopia can be easily corrected with multifocal glasses, contact lenses, or even occupational lenses designed for computer and desk work.
2. Refractive Errors — Nearsightedness, Farsightedness & Astigmatism
If your vision has been blurry since you were younger, it might be due to a refractive error such as:
Myopia (nearsightedness): Distant objects look blurry
Hyperopia (farsightedness): Near objects are harder to see
Astigmatism: Vision may be distorted or blurry at all distances
These are some of the most common reasons for blurry vision and can be easily corrected with the right prescription glasses or contact lenses.
3. Dry Eyes
Dry eye disease is becoming increasingly common in Australia, often due to screen time, air conditioning, and environmental factors.
When your eyes don’t produce enough tears, or the tears evaporate too quickly, your vision may fluctuate between clear and blurry.
Other symptoms can include:
Burning or gritty sensations
Redness or watery eyes
Sensitivity to light
Treatment can range from simple lifestyle changes and lubricating drops to in-practice therapies that restore eye comfort and clarity.
4. Eye Strain and Digital Fatigue
Spending long hours on digital devices can cause digital eye strain, leading to temporary blurred vision, headaches, and tired eyes.
Taking regular breaks, adjusting your workspace lighting, and wearing lenses designed for screen use can make a big difference.
5. Eye Health Conditions
Sometimes, blurry vision can signal an underlying eye health issue such as:
Cataracts – Clouding of the lens, often developing gradually
Macular degeneration – A condition that affects central vision
Glaucoma – Increased pressure in the eye that can damage the optic nerve
Diabetic eye disease – Changes in the retina caused by diabetes
These conditions often progress slowly, which is why regular eye exams are so important, even if your vision seems fine.
When to See an Optometrist
If your vision has recently become blurry, changes throughout the day, or is affecting your daily activities, it’s time for a comprehensive eye examination.
Our optometrists at Bright Eyes Optics use advanced retinal imaging and ultra-wide field technology to assess your eye health in detail, often without the need for dilating drops. We’ll identify the cause of your blurred vision and help you see clearly and comfortably again.
Book Your Eye Exam Today
Don’t ignore changes in your vision, clear sight is too important to take for granted.
Book an appointment with Bright Eyes Optics in Mona Vale today and let our experienced optometrists help you find the cause of your blurry vision.