Blurry Vision In One Eye: What It Could Mean And What To Do

Blurry vision in one eye can be unsettling, especially when it appears suddenly. If you’ve found yourself asking why your vision is hazy or unclear in just one eye, you’re not alone. Many people experience blurry vision at some point, but when it affects just one eye, it’s important to recognise the potential causes and know when to seek medical attention.

This guide is here to help you understand the possible reasons behind blurry vision in one eye, what it may indicate about your eye health, and what treatment options may be available.

Whether it’s a simple refractive error or something more urgent, understanding your vision changes is the first step to protecting your eye health.

What Is Blurry Vision In One Eye?

Blurry vision in one eye refers to a loss of sharpness or clarity that affects just one eye. It may feel like you’re looking through fog, or that a layer is obscuring part of your vision. You may struggle to see fine details or notice difficulty in recognising faces or reading small print.

While it can develop gradually, it may also appear suddenly. When it comes on without warning, blurry vision in one eye may indicate something more serious is happening and should not be ignored.

Common Symptoms That May Accompany Blurry Vision In One Eye

Blurry vision in one eye often comes with other symptoms that may help narrow down the cause. These may include:

• Distorted vision
• Cloudy vision
• Double vision
• Light sensitivity
• Eye pain or discomfort
• Redness or irritation
• Tunnel vision or a narrowed visual field
• Sudden onset of floaters or flashes
• Partial or total vision loss in one eye

If you notice any of these symptoms alongside blurry vision, it’s time to seek medical attention, especially if the changes happened suddenly.

How Blurry Vision In One Eye Differs From Sudden Blurry Vision In Both Eyes

While this article focuses on blurry vision in one eye, it’s worth noting that sudden blurry vision in both eyes may point to different underlying issues.

If you’re experiencing blurred vision in both eyes, visit our detailed guide about sudden blurry vision in both eyes to further explore that topic.

When Is Blurry Vision In One Eye A Medical Emergency?

Blurry vision can be mild and temporary, but in certain cases, it requires immediate medical attention. You should seek emergency care if:

• Vision loss occurred suddenly
• There’s severe eye pain
• You’ve had a head injury
• The blurry vision is accompanied by a severe headache
• You notice flashes of light or a shadow across your visual field

Prompt treatment may help prevent permanent damage or irreversible vision loss, so don’t delay getting help.

Causes Of Blurred Vision In One Eye

Many conditions can affect vision in just one eye. Below are the most common causes, ranging in urgency and severity.

1. Refractive Errors

If your blurry vision has developed gradually, a simple refractive error may be the cause.

• Astigmatism, myopia (short-sightedness), or hyperopia (long-sightedness) can affect just one eye more than the other.
• May be fixed with glasses, contact lenses, or laser eye surgery.

A detailed eye exam can help identify the best possible correction for you.

2. Dry Eye Syndrome

Dry eye can lead to intermittent or persistent blurry vision, often accompanied by:

• Itching or burning
• A gritty sensation
• Sensitivity to light

You may notice the blurriness improves after blinking or applying prescribed eye drops. Environmental changes, screen time, and dehydration can all cause blurry vision due to dryness.

3. Eye Infections

Blurry vision in one eye can occur due to:

• Keratitis
• Uveitis

These may present with redness, pain, discharge, and light sensitivity. Prompt care with prescribed medication can help protect the optic nerve and restore normal vision.

4. Cataracts

While cataracts commonly affect both eyes, they don’t always progress at the same pace. Blurry vision in one eye may be the first sign if:

• The lens of the eye becomes clouded, making vision feel foggy or dim
• You experience glare, especially at night
• Colours appear faded

Cataract eye surgery may be recommended if the blurriness interferes with daily activities. Your eye doctor will offer advanced cataract treatment and operate at a respected facility with cutting-edge technology.

5. Retinal Detachment

This is a serious condition that requires immediate treatment to prevent permanent vision loss. It occurs when the retina pulls away from the back of the eye, leading to:

• Sudden blurry vision
• Floaters or flashing lights
• Shadow or curtain effect over vision

This is a medical emergency; seek help without delay.

 

 

6. Glaucoma

In rare cases, acute angle-closure glaucoma can cause blurry vision in one eye, alongside:

• Severe eye pain
• Halos around lights
• Nausea or vomiting

This is a life-threatening condition for your vision and needs emergency medical care.

Lifestyle Triggers That May Cause Blurry Vision In One Eye

While some causes are medical, others are related to daily habits or temporary changes.

Dehydration

Can dehydration cause blurry vision? Yes, especially if your eyes are dry or your tear film is disrupted. Staying well-hydrated supports both your eyes and body.

Eye Strain

Spending long hours on screens can lead to digital eye strain. You may feel your vision is blurry, especially in one eye if you’re leaning or squinting more with it.

Take regular breaks, adjust lighting, and consider a check-up to see if you need vision correction.

Contact Lenses Misuse

Wearing contact lenses for too long or not cleaning them properly can lead to blurry vision in one eye. It can also raise the risk of eye infections or corneal damage.

Diagnosis: What To Expect When Seeing An Eye Doctor

During your consultation, your eye doctor will take the time to understand what you’re experiencing. You’ll likely be asked about your symptoms, when they began, and whether you’ve noticed any changes over time. Your general health, lifestyle, and medical history may also be discussed, as these can all play a role in your eye health.

From there, your eye doctor will carefully examine your eye to assess the health of its internal structures and determine what may be affecting your vision. This helps them rule out or identify potential issues such as glaucoma, macular changes, or signs of retinal involvement.

If your blurry vision is linked to a refractive issue or other treatable condition, your doctor may discuss the next steps.

Ultimately, the goal is to clearly understand what’s affecting your vision and create a tailored care plan that supports your long-term eye health.

Treatment Options For Blurry Vision In One Eye

Experiencing blurry vision in one eye can be unsettling, but the good news is that a range of effective treatment options may be available, each tailored to the cause of your vision changes.

Once your eye doctor has identified the underlying reason, they can guide you towards the right approach for your eyes and lifestyle.

Eye Drops To Relieve Dryness Or Inflammation

If dry eyes, allergies, or mild infections are the cause, targeted prescription eye drops may be recommended. These can help reduce inflammation, soothe irritation, and restore the tear film, bringing relief and sharper vision.

Surgical Treatment For More Complex Cases

In certain cases, surgery may be required, particularly if your blurry vision is caused by:

• Cataracts, where the clouded lens is replaced with a clear artificial lens
• Retinal detachment, where urgent surgical repair may help preserve vision
• Other structural concerns, such as glaucoma or eye trauma

Your eye doctor will evaluate the best course of action based on your condition, needs, and long-term eye health.

Interested In Vision Correction?

If your blurred vision in one eye is linked to a refractive issue, your eye doctor may explore whether laser eye surgery suits your unique situation.

Several modern techniques aim to reduce dependency on glasses or contact lenses, each offering different benefits depending on your eyes and lifestyle.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can blurry vision in one eye come and go?

Yes, in some cases, blurry vision may be temporary or intermittent. Dry eyes, fatigue, screen use, or contact lens wear might trigger it. However, if the blurriness becomes more frequent or starts to affect your daily life, it’s worth having a professional eye assessment.

Can blurry vision in one eye lead to permanent vision loss?

If left untreated, some conditions that cause blurry vision in one eye, like retinal detachment or certain forms of macular degeneration, can result in permanent vision loss. That’s why early diagnosis and treatment are so important.

Can blurry vision in one eye affect depth perception?

Absolutely. Depth perception relies on both eyes working together. If one eye is blurry, your ability to judge distances and focus on fine details can be affected, which may impact driving, reading, or other daily tasks.

Is laser eye surgery a possible solution if only one eye is blurry?

It could be. If the blurry vision is due to a refractive issue and you’re otherwise a good candidate, laser eye surgery may be an option, even for just one eye. Your eye surgeon will perform a comprehensive assessment to determine what’s most appropriate.

Should I see an eye doctor even if I only have blurry vision in one eye?

Yes. Even if the blurriness is mild or seems to come and go, it’s important to have your eye professionally assessed. Vision changes are your body’s way of signalling that something may need attention.

Conclusion

Blurry vision in one eye can range from a minor issue to a signal of a vision-threatening condition. The key is to listen to your body and act early. If you’re unsure, it’s always better to seek medical attention rather than wait.

Whether you’re dealing with mild irritation, blurry central vision, or sudden vision changes, expert care is just a step away. With the right support and guidance, you can take proactive steps towards protecting your vision and enjoying life with clarity and confidence.

If you’re in Melbourne and ready to take the next step in your eye health journey, our team is here to help with personalised care and advanced treatment options.

Reach out to Dr Anton Van Heerden at 03 9000 0389 to learn more about how we can support your visual well-being.

Note: Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.

References

Yuko E. 12 Causes of Blurred Vision in One Eye [Internet]. Verywell Health. 2025 [cited 2025 Jul 22]. Available from: https://www.verywellhealth.com/blurry-vision-in-one-eye-5097119

Gokhman R. How Does Dry Eye Affect Your Vision? [Internet]. Healthline. 2025 [cited 2025 Jul 22]. Available from: https://www.healthline.com/health/dry-eye/can-dry-eyes-affect-your-vision

Blurred Vision [Internet]. Healthdirect. 2023 [cited 2025 Jul 22]. Available from: https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/blurred-vision

Simple Tips to Prevent Eye Fatigue [Internet]. WebMD. 2023 [cited 2025 Jul 22]. Available from: https://www.webmd.com/eye-health/eye-fatigue-causes-symptoms-treatment