Why is My Vision Blurry With My Contact Lenses?
Contact lenses are a standard medical device used to correct blurry vision caused by refractive errors, such as: Nearsightedness (myopia) Farsightedness (hyperopia) Astigmatism (abnormal curvature of the eye)
Experiencing blurry vision while wearing contact lenses can be caused by several factors. These factors range from an outdated prescription to an underlying medical condition such as eye infection, diabetes, and glaucoma.
This article explores 12 reasons you may have blurred vision while wearing contact lenses. It also covers possible symptoms and treatment options.
1. New Prescription
Wearing contact lenses for the first time or getting a new prescription can cause eye strain and blurry vision as your eyes and brain adjust. It may take 2 weeks to feel comfortable wearing a new prescription.
Symptoms may include:
- Mild headache
- Slight dizziness
- Blurred vision
Follow up with your eye doctor if symptoms and discomfort persist. It may indicate you need a new prescription.
2. Outdated Prescription
Over time, refractive errors can change, making contact lenses ineffective at correcting visual acuity (distance vision).
It is essential to have an annual comprehensive eye exam to keep your prescription up to date and ensure optimal clear vision.
3. Allergies
Itchy and watery eyes caused by seasonal or contact allergens can shift the placement of the contact lens on top of the cornea, leading to discomfort and blurry vision.
Common symptoms of eye allergies include:
- Red/swollen eyes
- Itchiness
- Sensitivity to light
- Excessive tearing
- Burning sensation
The most effective ways to treat eye allergies and improve vision while wearing contact lenses include:
- Eliminating the allergen-causing symptoms
- Taking antihistamines
- Giving your eyes a break from wearing contacts
- Keeping your contacts clean
- Using artificial tears
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4. Extended Wear
Wearing contacts overnight or longer than prescribed is a common reason you may experience blurry or hazy vision. Since contact lenses become dirty throughout the day, letting them soak overnight is essential.
Contact lenses come in different disposable timeframes, including daily disposables, 2-week disposables, and monthly disposables.
It is important to follow the care instructions of your particular type of lens and throw them away as prescribed.
5. Improper Fit
Contact lenses come in many shapes, sizes, and brands. Working with your eye doctor to ensure the lenses fit correctly on top of your eye will help provide clear vision and comfort.
Symptoms of contact lenses that don’t fit properly include:
- Feeling like something is in your eye
- Redness and tearing
- Eye secretions
- Sensitivity to light
- Burning sensation
- Blurred vision
- Dry eyes
If you experience discomfort while wearing contacts, remove the lenses and seek help from your eye doctor for a new fitting.
7. Eye Infection
Extended wear and improper cleaning and handling of contact lenses can lead to a severe eye infection and vision change.
Symptoms of an eye infection include:
- Eye pain
- Blurred vision
- Redness and irritation
- Discharge from the eye
- Sensitivity to light
Eye infections are treated with medicated eye drops. It is important to stop wearing contact lenses and seek medical attention if you have signs and symptoms of an eye infection.
6. Astigmatism
Wearing contacts with astigmatism (irregularly shaped cornea) can cause the lens to shift easily, leading to blurry vision and discomfort.
Symptoms of astigmatism include:
- Blurred vision
- Eyestrain and squinting
- Headaches
- Difficulty with night vision
There are contact lenses designed specifically for people with astigmatism. An eye doctor can diagnose astigmatism during a routine comprehensive eye exam.
8. Dry Eyes
Dry eye syndrome results from the eye not producing enough tears or tear film. Dry eyes can make it uncomfortable and painful to wear contact lenses.
Common symptoms of dry eye syndrome include:
- Blurred vision when reading
- Burning or stinging sensation
- Gritty feeling in the eye
- Excessive mucus or discharge around the eye
- Red, irritated eyes
If you have dry eyes, your eye doctor may recommend using eye drops while wearing contact lenses. If symptoms are severe, you may need to avoid using contact lenses until your dry eyes are successfully treated.
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