Can eye drops cause blurred vision? - Dr. Mehran Zarei Kanavati

Blurred vision after the drop

Can eye drops cause blurred vision?

The answer to this question is yes, eye drops, both over-the-counter and prescription medications, can cause blurred vision either temporarily or, in rare cases, permanently. This blurred vision usually clears up after a few minutes, but in some cases it may last longer. The main cause of this phenomenon is due to the compounds in the drop and how it works in the eye. Some drops contain active pharmaceutical ingredients that dilate the pupil or affect the function of the ciliary muscles, which directly affects the eye's ability to focus. Also, the viscosity or high concentration of some drops can temporarily blur vision by creating a thin layer on the cornea until the drop is absorbed or removed from the eye. Understanding that drops and blurred vision often have a temporary and explainable connection can prevent unnecessary worry.

Reasons of blurred vision after using eye drops

Blurred vision after using eye drops can have many reasons, knowing them will solve your worries and you can see a doctor if needed:

Pharmaceutically active compounds

Many eye drops contain drugs that directly affect vision. For example, pupil-dilating drops (such as atropine or cyclopentolate) used for eye examinations or to treat certain diseases cause pupil dilation and temporary paralysis of the eye's focusing muscles, resulting in blurred near vision and sensitivity to light. Glaucoma drops may also cause blurred vision in some people.

Preservatives and additives

Some eye drops contain preservatives such as benzalkonium chloride (BAK). These substances can cause irritation, burning and temporary blurring of vision in some patients, especially those with sensitive eyes or dry eyes. In rare cases, long-term use of drops containing strong preservatives can damage the surface of the eye and cause more permanent blurred vision.

Viscosity and drop concentration

Drops that are highly concentrated or formulated to stay on the surface of the eye for a longer period of time (such as some dry eye drops or eye gels) can form a film on the cornea immediately after use. This layer causes light refraction and eventually temporary blurring of vision until the drop is completely spread or absorbed.

Read more: All about dry eye

Allergic reactions and sensitivity to ophthalmic drugs

In some patients, the body reacts allergic to certain compounds in eye drops. This reaction can include redness, itching, swelling of the eyelids, and in more severe cases, blurred vision due to swelling of the cornea or surface of the eye. Allergy to ophthalmic drugs is an important issue, and if you see allergic symptoms, you should immediately stop using the drops and consult a doctor.

Dosage and correct way of use

Excessive use of the drops (high dose) or failure to properly drip the drops can cause side effects including blurred vision. Strict adherence to the doctor's instructions or the instructions on the package is necessary to minimize the side effects of eye drops.

Underlying eye diseases

In some cases, the blurred vision that occurs after the use of eye drops may not be related to the drops themselves, but may be a symptom of an underlying eye disease that is concurrent or aggravated. For example, if you have severe and persistent blurred vision, you should see a doctor for further investigation.

Types of eye drops and their effects on vision

There are different types of eye drops, each of which has a different effect and can affect vision in different ways:

• • Antibiotic and anti-inflammatory drops: These drops usually do not cause significant blurring of vision, unless it is due to severe eye inflammation or individual sensitivity.
  • Pupillary dilating drops: such as cyclopentolate or phenylephrine, which are used for eye examinations, cause temporary blurring of vision (especially near vision) and sensitivity to light that can last for several hours or days (atropine).
  • Eye pressure-reducing (glaucoma) drops: Some of these drops, especially those that affect the pupil (such as pilocarpine), can cause temporary blurred vision, especially in low light.
  • Wetting drops and artificial tears: Due to their viscosity, these drops often cause mild and temporary blurring of vision that resolves quickly.

When should we worry about blurred vision caused by eye drops?

As mentioned, temporary blurring of vision after using eye drops is often normal. But in some situations, blurred vision can be a sign of a more serious problem and requires medical attention:

• Sudden and severe blurred vision: If the blurred vision is so severe that it interferes with your daily activities and does not resolve quickly.
• Persistent blurred vision: If the blurred vision continues for hours or days after stopping the use of drops and does not improve.
• Along with other symptoms:If blurred vision is accompanied by severe eye pain, excessive redness, unusual discharge, double vision, or seeing halos around objects.
• Worsening condition: If your blurred vision gets worse over time.
• Allergic symptoms: If, in addition to blurred vision, you experience symptoms such as severe swelling of the eyelids, unbearable itching, or a skin rash, this indicates an allergy to eye medications.

In any of the above cases, you should immediately stop using the drops and see your eye doctor.

Prevention and management of blurred vision caused by eye drops

To reduce the possibility of blurred vision and manage it better, you can do the following:

Consult your doctor: Always consult your eye doctor before using any type of eye drops (even over the counter), especially if you have a history of eye disease or allergies.

Strictly following the instructions: Follow the dosage and time intervals of the drops exactly according to the doctor's instructions or the drug brochure.

The correct way to instill the drop: Tilt your head back a little, pull down the lower eyelid with your finger and apply the drop in the conjunctival sac (the space between the lower eyelid and the eye). After instillation, gently close the eyes and press the inner corner of the eye for one to two minutes to reduce systemic absorption.

Do not drive or operate heavy machinery: If you know that the drops you are using cause blurred vision, avoid doing activities that require clear vision until the problem is completely resolved.

Using drops without preservatives: If you are allergic to preservatives, ask your doctor to prescribe another drop without preservatives.

Conclusion:

Blurred vision after using eye drops is a common thing that is temporary in most cases and is nothing to worry about. Understanding the reasons behind this phenomenon, including the medicinal ingredients and viscosity of the drop, can give you peace of mind. However, it's important to know the difference between temporary blurred vision and more serious warning signs. If you experience severe, persistent blurred vision or other worrisome symptoms, be sure to consult your eye doctor so that the underlying cause can be identified and treated appropriately. The health of your eyes is a priority, so always consult a specialist doctor for any concerns about this condition.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How long does blurred vision from eye drops usually last?

Usually the blurred vision caused by eye drops lasts a few minutes to an hour, but in the case of pupil dilating drops, it may last for several hours or days (atropine drops).

2. Can blurred vision after drops be a sign of allergy?

Yes, if blurred vision is accompanied by severe redness, itching, burning, swelling of the eyelid or discharge, it can be a sign of allergy to eye medications.

3. Do all eye drops cause blurred vision?

No, not all eye drops cause blurred vision. This complication is seen more in drops with high viscosity or those that dilate the pupil.

4. What can I do to reduce blurred vision after using the drops?

After instilling the drop, close your eyes slowly and press the inner corner of the eye. Avoid driving or performing activities that require clear vision until the blurred vision resolves.

5. When should I see a doctor because of blurred vision caused by eye drops?

If the blurred vision is severe, persistent, accompanied by pain, severe redness, discharge, or worsening vision, you should see a doctor immediately.

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