Blurry vision and itchy eyes are common symptoms of various eye and vision problems. If you squint to focus or see clearly, you should visit an eye health provider. In most cases, blurry vision gets worse over time.

Itchiness can be a symptom of allergies and other eye conditions. An eye exam will help to determine the cause of the itchiness or blurred vision. If you have itchy eyes or blurred vision, you might have dry eye syndrome.

What Causes Itchy Eyes

Itchy eyes can be triggered by various factors and eye conditions. Causes include:
 

• Dry eye syndrome.
   

• Digital eye strain. 
   

• Seasonal and perennial allergies.
   

• Airborne irritants.
   

• Eye infections.
   

• Contact lens use.
   

• Blepharitis.

Understanding the cause helps to find the best management solution. Some cases may be more severe than others.

What Causes Blurred Vision

Blurry vision is a common symptom that can have several potential causes. They include:
 

• Dry eye syndrome.
   

• Refractive errors.
   

• Age-related macular degeneration.
   

• Glaucoma.
   

• Diabetic retinopathy.
   

• Cataracts.
   

• Optic neuritis.
   

• Cornea scars.
   

• Inherited optic nerve disorders.

Understanding the cause of blurry vision is essential for the most effective treatment. Sudden blurriness may be due to an eye injury, infection, concussion, stroke, a sharp increase in blood pressure, migraine, or hyphema. It may also be due to retinal detachment.

Do You Have Dry Eye Syndrome?

Dry eye syndrome is one of the most common causes of itchiness and blurred vision. If your vision clears when you blink, you may have dry eye syndrome. Dry eye syndrome is a condition that occurs when the tear film fails to adequately lubricate the eyes.

A stable tear film keeps the eye smooth and clear, enabling you to see clearly. It has three layers: oil, water, and mucus. Disruptions to the film can cause symptoms such as blurriness, a burning sensation, itchiness, and watering. Various factors can cause disruptions to the tear film, leading to dry eye syndrome.

Risk Factors for Dry Eye Syndrome

Various factors can increase the risk of developing dry eye. Some risks are uncontrollable, such as aging or hormonal changes. The older you get, the more likely you are to develop the condition.

Some factors can be controlled or avoided. Lifestyle factors such as contact lens use, smoking, and using digital devices can increase the risk of dry eye. Others are environmental factors such as the weather, certain medications, medical conditions, and eye surgeries.

Treating Dry Eye Syndrome

There are various treatments to relieve dry eye symptoms. Eye specialists determine the underlying cause to recommend the best management option.

Options include artificial tears, prescription eye drops, autologous serum drops, punctal occlusion, therapeutic contact lenses, and in-office procedures. Effective in-office procedures include intense pulsed light (IPL) therapy and thermal pulsation therapy (LipiFlow). Managing underlying health conditions can help to relieve dry eye syndrome.

Home remedies such as placing a warm compress over the eyes, eyelid scrubs, and using a humidifier can soothe the eyes. Making changes to your environment and lifestyle can help improve your eye health.

Scheduling regular eye exams can help to detect conditions that can cause dry eye syndrome. Early detection and diagnosis can help to ensure successful treatment or management.

For more information on whether you might have dry eye syndrome, visit Albright Eyecare. Our office is in New Braunfels, Texas. Call (830) 271-4900 to book an appointment today.