Cloudy Vision: What Causes It and What Can You Do?

It's understandable to feel a bit concerned when you notice changes in your vision. Cloudy vision isn't just an annoyance, it can be a sign of several eye conditions⁠—some more serious than others.

Let’s examine the common culprits behind cloudy vision and break down the symptoms to watch for, so you can understand what your eyes might be trying to tell you.

Causes of Cloudy Vision and Their Symptoms

Cloudy vision is a common eye complaint. It can dull a person’s perception of colors, distort image edges, and create halos around lights.

This vision change can have several causes, each with its distinct symptoms. Let’s discuss the common conditions that can cause cloudy vision:

Cataracts

Cataracts can make it feel like you’re looking through a fogged-up window. They occur when the natural lens inside your eye, which is normally clear, becomes cloudy due to a buildup of proteins.

Cataracts are a common part of aging, and many people develop them as they get older.

Symptoms of cataracts typically develop gradually and may include:

• Cloudy or blurry vision
• Colors appearing faded or yellowish
• Difficulty seeing at night, especially while driving
• Sensitivity to light and glare, such as from headlights or sunlight
• Seeing halos around lights

If you're experiencing any of these symptoms, it's important to see an eye doctor to determine if cataracts are the cause.

Posterior Capsule Opacification

Posterior capsule opacification (PCO) is a clouding of the eye’s natural lens capsule. It can occur after cataract surgery and is sometimes called a secondary cataract.

PCO can cause cloudy vision weeks, months, or years after surgery. Your ophthalmologist can treat PCO with a 5-minute laser surgery called a posterior capsulotomy.

Corneal Edema

The cornea is the clear front surface of your eye, acting like a window that allows light to enter. Corneal edema occurs when fluid builds up in the cornea, causing it to swell and become cloudy.

This can happen for various reasons, including eye injuries, certain medications, or underlying health conditions.

Symptoms of corneal edema can include:

• Blurry or hazy vision, often worse in the morning and improving throughout the day
• Halos or rings around lights
• Mild to moderate eye pain or discomfort
• Increased sensitivity to light

Prompt treatment can help prevent complications and preserve your vision.

Age-Related Macular Degeneration

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of vision loss in people over 50. The early stages of AMD may not cause symptoms, but eventually, straight lines appear wavy, and vision becomes cloudy or blurry.

The two forms of the disease are dry AMD and wet AMD, and about 80% of people with AMD have the dry type. Though less common, wet AMD is far more serious.

Eye Infections

Like other body parts, your eyes can become infected, leading to cloudy vision and other uncomfortable symptoms. Common eye infections include:

• Conjunctivitis (pink eye)
• Keratitis (inflammation of the cornea)
• Uveitis (inflammation of the middle layer of the eye)

Symptoms of eye infections can vary depending on the type but often include:

• Redness and irritation
• Discharge from the eye (watery, sticky, or pus-like)
• Pain or a gritty sensation in the eye
• Sensitivity to light

Diabetic Retinopathy

Diabetic retinopathy is a complication of diabetes that can affect people with the condition. It results from damage to the blood vessels in the retina.

At first, diabetic retinopathy may cause mild or no symptoms. Later stages of diabetic retinopathy can cause:

• Blurry or cloudy vision
• Eye floaters
• Dark or empty areas in your visual field
• Vision loss

Diabetic retinopathy can lead to permanent vision loss. Fortunately, treatment can slow and possibly stop the disease’s progression.

Remember, these are just a few conditions that could cause cloudy vision. If you have any concerns about your eyesight, we encourage you to contact a trusted eye care professional. With their expertise, you can identify the cause of your cloudy vision and find the right treatment to restore your clear and vibrant view of the world.

When to See an Eye Doctor for Cloudy Vision

Mild cloudy vision that lasts a day or two is usually not a cause for concern. However, if the cloudiness persists or worsens, you should schedule an appointment with your eye doctor.

The following symptoms also warrant a doctor’s visit:

• Eye pain that’s sudden or severe
• A headache that accompanies the cloudy vision
• Vision changes
• Seeing light flashes
• A gritty sensation in your eye

Your doctor will diagnose the underlying cause of the cloudy vision and review treatment options.

How is Cloudy Vision Diagnosed?

If you're experiencing cloudy vision, it's completely natural to feel a bit apprehensive. But rest assured, there are many effective ways to address this issue.

The first and most important step is to visit an eye specialist for a comprehensive eye exam. Your eye doctor will carefully piece together clues to determine the cause of your cloudy vision.

Here’s what you can expect from a consultation:

• Your doctor will start by asking about your symptoms, medical history, and any recent changes in your vision.
• They might also inquire about your lifestyle and daily habits, which can sometimes offer valuable insights.
• They'll conduct a series of tests, each designed to assess different aspects of your eye health.

What Diagnostic Tests Will a Doctor Use?

Your doctor will utilize a range of diagnostic tests to pinpoint what could be causing your cloudy vision. These may include:

• Visual acuity test. This measures how well you can see letters or symbols at various distances.
• Slit-lamp examination. A special microscope with a bright light is used to examine the different structures of your eye in detail.
• Dilated eye exam. Your doctor may put drops in your eyes to widen your pupils, allowing them to get a better view of the back of your eye, including the retina.

Depending on your symptoms and medical history, your doctor might recommend additional tests, such as measuring your eye pressure or taking images of your eye's internal structures.

How is Cloudy Vision Treated?

Once your eye doctor has identified the cause of your cloudy vision, they will create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs.

This plan may include one or more of the following options:

• Corrective lenses. If your cloudy vision is due to a refractive error like nearsightedness or farsightedness, glasses or contact lenses might be all you need to restore clarity.
• Medications. Sometimes, eye drops or oral medications can help treat conditions like glaucoma or eye infections contributing to cloudy vision.
• Surgery. If cataracts are the culprit, a common and highly effective surgery can remove the cloudy lens and replace it with an artificial one. This can significantly improve vision and restore your quality of life.

Depending on the underlying cause, your doctor might recommend other treatments, such as laser therapy or injections. They'll guide you through the options and help you choose the most appropriate action.

The good news is that with early diagnosis and proper treatment, most cases of cloudy vision can be effectively managed, and in many instances, vision can be restored.

Can You Prevent Cloudy Vision?

While we can't completely eliminate the risk of developing eye conditions, there's much we can do to nurture our eye health and potentially prevent or delay the onset of cloudy vision.

Taking proactive steps to safeguard your vision is always a good decision, so here are a few things you can do:

1. Get Regular Eye Check-ups

Aim to have a comprehensive eye exam at least every two years or more frequently if your eye doctor recommends it.

These exams are crucial for detecting early signs of potential problems, like cataracts or glaucoma, before they cause significant vision loss.

2. Shield Your Eyes from Harm

You wouldn't leave your house without sunscreen on a sunny day, would you? The same goes for your eyes.

Always wear sunglasses that offer 100% protection against harmful UV rays outdoors. This simple habit can help prevent cataracts and other eye damage caused by the sun.

3. Nourish Your Eyes Through Food

Like the rest of your body, your eyes need essential nutrients to thrive. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats can help preserve your vision.

Think vibrant, colorful foods like leafy greens, carrots, berries, and citrus fruits, which are packed with vitamins A, C, and E. Don't forget to include fatty fish like salmon in your diet for a good dose of omega-3 fatty acids, which are known to be beneficial for eye health.

4. Practice Healthy Lifestyle Habits

Your overall lifestyle plays a significant role in your eye health. Regular exercise promotes good blood circulation, essential for nourishing your eyes.

Take a brisk walk around your neighborhood, enjoy a bike ride, or simply spend time gardening—it all counts.

Here are our other tips for maintaining a healthy lifestyle:

• Quit smoking, as it can significantly reduce your risk of developing serious eye conditions like cataracts and macular degeneration.
• Manage chronic conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure by working closely with your doctor.
• Aim for 7 to 8 hours of quality sleep each night to allow your eyes to rest and repair themselves. 
• Drink plenty of water to keep your eyes hydrated and lubricated, reducing the risk of dry eye syndrome.

Remember, caring for your eyes is a continuous process. By embracing these simple yet powerful lifestyle changes, you're investing in a future of clear, vibrant vision.