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Vision Problems

Blurry, fuzzy, or distorted vision can be caused by a number of conditions. Most can be corrected. If your vision blurs suddenly, see your doctor right away.


Causes

Vision Changes That Can Signal a Stroke

Treatment for Refractive Errors

Prevention

Related topics
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What to do About
Vision Problems
Occasional blurring of vision, related to fatigue or overuse Symptoms can usually be treated at home. If symptoms persist, you should call your doctor for advice.
Occasional black spots floating across vision field Symptoms can usually be treated at home. If symptoms persist, you should call your doctor for advice.
Visual disturbances, such as jagged lines and heat waves, accompanied by dizziness and nausea Symptoms may be treated at home or they may require a visit to your doctor. Usually you and your doctor need to share additional information about your condition to decide what is best for you.
Vision changes possibly related to change or addition of new medication Symptoms may be treated at home or they may require a visit to your doctor. Usually you and your doctor need to share additional information about your condition to decide what is best for you. 
Gradual decrease in vision in a person older than 50 (possible cataracts) Symptoms need to be evaluated by a doctor. When you call to make an appointment, your doctor will help you determine how soon you need to be seen.
Tunnel vision or loss of peripheral vision Symptoms need to be evaluated by a doctor. When you call to make an appointment, your doctor will help you determine how soon you need to be seen.
Seeing bright lights or sudden appearance of large numbers of “floaters” Symptoms in this category are serious and should usually be seen within 2 hours. Depending on your health insurance, you may choose to call your doctor to determine if you should be seen in the doctor’s office, in an urgent care center, or in an emergency room.
Sudden loss of vision Symptoms in this category are serious and should usually be seen within 2 hours. Depending on your health insurance, you may choose to call your doctor to determine if you should be seen in the doctor’s office, in an urgent care center, or in an emergency room.
Loss of vision related to injury to eyes or head Symptoms in this category are serious and should usually be seen within 2 hours. Depending on your health insurance, you may choose to call your doctor to determine if you should be seen in the doctor’s office, in an urgent care center, or in an emergency room.
Loss of vision with weakness or paralysis Symptoms in this category are life threatening and require immediate medical treatment.

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