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Safely Viewing the April 2024 Solar Eclipse in Buffalo, NY

As the April 2024 solar eclipse approaches, excitement builds in Buffalo, NY, where observers anticipate a breathtaking event. According to NASA, the partial eclipse will commence at 2:04 p.m., with totality beginning at 3:18 p.m. However, it’s crucial to prioritize eye safety during this awe-inspiring moment. Buffalo, NY, finds itself in the path of totality, offering a rare opportunity to witness the sun completely obscured by the moon. Here at ECVA, we’re dedicated to guiding you on safely viewing this extraordinary phenomenon. 

Where to Get Eclipse Glasses in Buffalo 

Thanks to Erie County’s support, free eclipse glasses are now at the Buffalo Museum of Science (limit: two per person). You can also get them at all 37 branches of the Buffalo & Erie County Library System. Call your library ahead to check availability. If buying your own, choose reputable sellers like RainbowSymphony.com. Make sure the glasses are certified for solar viewing and meet the ISO 12312-2 safety standard for direct observation of the sun. 

Dangers of Unprotected Viewing 

Staring directly at the sun, even during an eclipse, can cause severe eye damage or even permanent blindness. The sun’s intense rays can burn the retina, leading to solar retinopathy, a condition where the cells of the retina are damaged by solar radiation. Therefore, it’s crucial to emphasize that looking at the eclipse without proper eye protection is extremely dangerous. 

Why Can’t I Wear My Sunglasses to Watch The Eclipse? 

 While sunglasses are essential for shielding your eyes from harmful UV rays during regular daylight, they are not suitable for viewing a solar eclipse. Regular sunglasses do not provide adequate protection against the intense brightness of the sun during an eclipse. Staring at the sun through them can still cause significant damage to your eyes. 

Using Specialized Eclipse Glasses 

The safest way to view a solar eclipse is by using specialized eclipse glasses. These glasses are equipped with solar filters that block out harmful ultraviolet, infrared, and visible light rays. When choosing eclipse glasses, ensure they meet the ISO 12312-2 safety standard to guarantee sufficient protection for your eyes. Additionally, inspect the glasses for any damage or scratches before use, as compromised lenses can allow harmful light to penetrate. 

Making Your Own Solar Eclipse Viewer 

If you’re unable to procure specialized eclipse glasses, you can create a simple solar eclipse viewer using household items. One method involves constructing a pinhole projector using cardboard or paper. By poking a small hole in one piece and allowing sunlight to pass through onto another surface, such as a piece of paper or the ground, you can safely observe the eclipse’s progress without looking directly at the sun. 

Our Focus is on Care 

Whether you’re using specialized eclipse glasses or crafting a DIY solar eclipse viewer, take the necessary precautions to safeguard your vision. Let’s make this celestial event a memorable and safe experience for everyone in Buffalo, New York. 

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The Role of Genetics in Eye Health: Understanding Inherited Eye Conditions

Some eye conditions are related to specific genetic markers. As a result, these eye conditions can be inherited. By understanding what conditions have genetic factors, it’s easier to anticipate your risk of developing them. In turn, it can help you take a more proactive approach to your eye health, which can make a significant difference in overall outcomes.

Here is a look at some common eye conditions that can be linked to genetics.

Myopia and Hyperopia

Both myopia (nearsightedness) and hyperopia (farsightedness) can have a genetic component. Anyone with a first-degree relative with either condition is significantly more likely to develop it than individuals without family members with the condition.

Research involving myopia in children also demonstrates that specific demographics are more likely to develop the condition. For example, one study showed the prevalence is far higher in South Asian children, coming in at nine times greater than among white Europeans.

Glaucoma

Glaucoma is the most common cause of blindness worldwide, as the condition can permanently damage the optic nerve due to increased pressure in the eye. Having a family history of glaucoma puts you at far greater risk, making you four to nine times more likely to develop the condition.

Additionally, people of Hispanic descent are at greater risk than those of European descent. Individuals of Asian descent have a heightened risk of angle-closure glaucoma than other demographics. Glaucoma is also up to eight times more prevalent in the African-American community than in the Caucasian community.

Age-Related Macular Degeneration

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) – an eye condition that leads to a damaged macula, which causes a reduction in central vision – also seemingly has a genetic component. According to research, an estimated 20 percent of patients with AMD have a family member with the condition, and having a family history makes you four times more likely to develop AMD.

Studies also suggest that Caucasians are more likely to develop AMD than African Americans. Data on whether individuals of Hispanic descent are more or less likely to develop AMD than Caucasians is conflicting, with some reports showing a higher occurrence while others a lower one.

Cataracts

While cataracts are common as people age, specific occurrences of the condition have genetic components. Congenital or childhood bilateral cataracts autosomal dominant inheritance was present among 44 percent of cases examined in one particular study.

Specific ethnic heritages are also at greater risk of developing cataracts in general. For example, African Americans and Latinx Americans are at greater risk than Caucasian Americans.

While a genetic predisposition to specific eye conditions is often concerning, being proactive makes a difference. Proper care and monitoring can lead to an earlier diagnosis, allowing for treatment plans that can slow disease progression and preserve eye health and vision.

At ECVA, the safety and health of our patients’ eyes are our priority. If you’re concerned about whether you’re developing an eye condition with a genetic component or simply haven’t visited your eye care provider in the past year, the ECVA team is here to help. Schedule an appointment at your closest ECVA clinic today.

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The Importance of Regular Eye Exams for the Whole Family

The start of the school year is on the horizon, so many households are taking the time to get ready for the upcoming academic year. One critical part of that equation is a back-to-school eye exam, ensuring children are able to see clearly when they’re in class. 

However, regular eye exams aren’t just critical for students; they’re essential for the whole family. Here’s why. 

Early Detection of Vision Problems 

Regular eye exams allow for the early detection of vision problems, ensuring prompt intervention and treatment. In children, undetected vision issues can lead to difficulties in school, delayed development, and social challenges. By scheduling regular eye exams for children, parents can identify and address vision problems early on, preventing any potential negative impacts on their education and overall well-being. 

For parents, regular eye exams can detect age-related eye conditions, including cataracts, glaucoma, macular degeneration, and diabetic retinopathy. Many of these conditions don’t produce noticeable symptoms in their early stages, making comprehensive eye exams critical for early diagnosis and timely treatment. 

Prevention and Management of Eye Conditions 

Eye exams are not just about identifying existing vision problems; they also play a crucial role in preventing eye issues and managing existing conditions. Eye care providers can assess your eye health, evaluate risk factors, and provide guidance on preventive measures that’s customized based on your unique needs. 

Regular eye exams are also crucial for individuals with existing eye problems. These exams help monitor for changes caused by the conditions. In turn, it’s easier to identify treatments that can resolve issues or prevent further deterioration and begin them as quickly as possible. 

Prescription Updates 

If you wear glasses or contact lenses, regular eye exams ensure that your prescriptions are current. Vision changes typically occur gradually, and you might not even realize that your visual acuity is shifting. Regular eye exams help identify changes in your vision and allow your eye care provider to update prescriptions as needed to maintain proper visual acuity. 

Overall Health Assessment 

Conditions like diabetes, hypertension, and certain autoimmune diseases can lead to specific eye-related changes. During an eye exam, your eye care provider can identify abnormalities – such as changes in blood vessels, optic nerve damage, or deposits in the eyes – that may indicate underlying health issues. By catching these signs early, individuals can seek appropriate medical care and manage these conditions effectively. 

Setting a Good Example 

Regular eye exams for the whole family set a positive example for children and emphasize the importance of proactive healthcare. When children see their parents prioritizing proper eye care, they’re more likely to value and prioritize their own vision as they grow older. By making regular eye exams a family practice, you instill lifelong habits of self-care and promote overall well-being. 

At ECVA, the safety and health of our patients’ eyes are our priority. If you’re preparing for back-to-school season or simply haven’t seen your eye care provider in the past year, the ECVA team is here to help. Schedule an appointment at your closest ECVA clinic today. 

Family looking at eyeglasses
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Summer Eye Care Tips 

It’s officially summer, a time of year when people spend more time outdoors enjoying the excellent weather. However, it’s also a season that comes with specific eye health risks. Fortunately, it’s easy to keep your eyes in fantastic shape by taking some simple steps. Here are some summer eye care tips to get you started. 

Protect Against UV Light 

Ultraviolet (UV) light can harm your eyes. UV exposure is connected to a variety of eye conditions, including macular degeneration, photokeratitis, uveal melanoma, and many others. 

UV rays are present even when it’s cloudy outside. As a result, it’s critical to protect your eyes against UV light at all times. Often, the simplest way is to wear wraparound sunglasses with complete or full-spectrum UV protection. You can even purchase wraparound sunglasses that have your prescription, ensuring you can see clearly while shielding your eyes from harm. 

Wear Goggles When Swimming 

When you go swimming, wearing goggles is a must if you want to keep your eyes safe and healthy. In lakes, rivers, and the ocean, visibility can be low, so the goggles can protect your eyes against unexpected debris. 

Plus, natural bodies of water can contain tiny particles, bacteria, and microorganisms, all of which can damage the eye. By wearing goggles, you prevent them from reaching your eyes. 

If you’re swimming in a pool, chemicals like chlorine in the water are an eye irritant, so putting on goggles helps you avoid that irritation. Plus, pools can contain a wide array of contaminants, so it’s best to keep goggles on to avoid exposing your eyes to them. 

Apply Sunscreen and Bug Spray Carefully 

Sunscreen and bug spray both contain ingredients that can irritate the eyes. As a result, you want to exercise caution when applying either. Avoid spraying sunscreen or bug spray over or near your eyes, opting for a hand-based application instead. Additionally, keep both away from the eyelids entirely. 

If you’re sweating, causing your sunscreen or bug spray to drip across your skin, dab (don’t wipe) the sweat away using a clean cloth, napkin, or similar item. That ensures you don’t accidentally move the drips onto your eyelids or into your eyes. 

Wash Hands Regularly (and Avoid Rubbing Your Eyes) 

Pollen, dust, and dirt can all end up on your hands throughout the day, often irritating the eyes. Regular hand washing is a simple way to reduce your odds of exposing your eyes to contaminants or foreign objects if you touch your eye area, keeping your eyes safe. 

Additionally, it’s best to avoid rubbing your eyes at all. If there are particles or other materials in your eye, rubbing can increase irritation and may lead to more damage, such as scratches. Instead, use safe flushing methods to remove anything in your eyes, as that’s the safer approach. 

At ECVA, the safety and health of our patients’ eyes are our priority. If you’d like to learn more summer eye tips or simply haven’t seen your eye care provider in the past year, the ECVA team is here to help. Schedule an appointment at your closest ECVA clinic today. 

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Optometrist, Optician, or Ophthalmologist?

When you’re looking for a new eye care provider, you may notice that eye care providers can have several different titles. If you don’t know the differences, choosing an optometrist, optician, or ophthalmologist may seem like a challenge. Fortunately, how they stand apart is relatively straightforward. If you need to find the right eye care provider for your needs, here’s a look at what optometrists, opticians, and ophthalmologists are and what they can each do.  

Optometrist  

An optometrist typically has a doctorate of optometry, but they aren’t classified as medical doctors. Still, their training and license allow them to provide various services. Optometrists can conduct eye exams and write vision correction prescriptions. They can also test for eye abnormalities and prescribe medications to treat specific conditions. Fitting glasses or contact lenses is also something that optometrists can handle.  

Optometrists can also monitor for eye changes that may come with specific health conditions, such as diabetes. They can assist with managing chronic eye conditions, including dry eye, cataracts, and glaucoma, and provide vision therapy. However, an optometrist isn’t able to provide surgical treatment.  

Optician  

Opticians are eye care providers who are able to support optometrists. Opticians aren’t able to diagnose or treat conditions directly, and they can’t write prescriptions or conduct exams.  

While opticians can’t conduct eye exams, they can assist with fittings for glasses and contacts. As a result, they can still play an essential part in the vision correction equation.  

Typically, opticians go through up to two years of training, and they may need a license to serve in the position. However, whether licensing is required varies by state.  

Ophthalmologist  

Unlike opticians and optometrists, ophthalmologists are medical doctors, either holding a doctorate of medicine or a doctorate of osteopathy. They have advanced education and training, allowing them to diagnose and treat a wider variety of vision or eye conditions, including the ability to provide surgical care when needed. However, they can also provide services that optometrists can offer, making them more comprehensive overall.  

Essentially, ophthalmologists can provide total eye care without referring you to a separate specialist. Whether you need simple vision correction or more advanced medical treatments, an ophthalmologist is able to provide the services you need.  

Ultimately, the type of eye care provider you need may depend on your goals for treatment and the conditions involved. When it comes to comprehensive care or needing specialized services, such as surgery, an ophthalmologist has the most to offer. However, for more traditional eye care needs, an optometrist can handle quite a bit, making them a viable alternative when advanced treatments aren’t necessary.  

Family Eye Care in WNY 

At ECVA, the safety and health of our patients’ eyes are our priority. If you’re looking for a new eye care provider or haven’t had an exam in the past year, the ECVA team is here to help. Schedule an appointment at your closest ECVA clinic today.  

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Why Are My Eyes Burning?

Burning eyes are highly uncomfortable and may make it difficult to see clearly. The stinging sensation is highly distracting, and keeping the eyes open and focused can be difficult when that burning feeling is present. Ultimately, there are many potential causes of burning eyes. Here’s an overview of some of the most common ones, as well as what to do about burning eyes. 

Allergies 

Some allergens can trigger a burning sensation in the eyes. This can occur when the allergen makes contact with the eye area. That includes when the allergen is present in the air, leading to exposure when the eyes are open, or if a person’s hand touches an allergen and they proceed to touch their eyes. 

Infections 

Many infections that impact the eyes can trigger a burning sensation. That includes conditions like conjunctivitis (pink eye), infection-related blepharitis, and similar eye health concerns. 

Chemical Irritants 

Chemical irritants can cause a burning feeling in the eyes. Usually, this happens when the chemical contacts the eye area, either directly or through related fumes. The issue can arise due to common chemicals, such as pool chlorine or many household cleaners, as well as exposure to more dangerous substances. 

Dry Eyes 

When a person suffers from dry eyes, a burning sensation is a common side effect. Generally, those experiencing issues with dry eyes have insufficient lubrication, leading to inflammation and irritation that can then cause a burning feeling. 

In some cases, low humidity can lead to dry eyes in people who don’t normally experience dryness. The lack of humidity causes tears to evaporate more quickly, leading to irritation that can cause a stinging sensation. 

Air Pollutants 

Air pollutants like smog or smoke can irritate the eyes, leading to a burning sensation. Often, the contact is incident, occurring when the pollutant contacts the eyes or irritates the nasal passages and sinuses, leading to inflammation, dryness, irritation, or other issues that can make the eyes sting. 

What to Do About Burning Eyes 

Relieving the discomfort of burning eyes usually means addressing the underlying cause. For dry eyes, lubricating eye drops are a typical first step. For allergies, eye drops that combat allergens or broader allergy treatments are a potential solution. Washing the area around the eyes can also help remove any remaining allergens, which is beneficial. 

For burning eyes caused by infections, the symptoms may remain until the infection resolves. Depending on its nature, that could simply be a matter of time. However, specific infections may require prescription treatments. 

Generally, it’s best to see your eye care provider if burning eyes persist. However, if the stinging sensation is related to specific issues, such as an infection or exposure to harmful chemicals, immediate treatment is best. Additionally, if burning eyes are accompanied by vision changes, fevers, light sensitivity, facial or body rashes, or headaches, see your eye care provider right away. 

At ECVA, the safety and health of our patients’ eyes are our priority. If you’re experiencing burning eyes or simply haven’t seen your eye care provider in the past year, the ECVA team is here to help. Schedule an appointment at your closest ECVA clinic today. 

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What Causes Eye Color to Change?

Changes in eye color can be as captivating as they are concerning. By understanding what can cause eye colors to change, you can determine if what you’re experiencing is typical or if you should see a visionary eye doctor.  

Here is a look at common causes of eye color changes.  

Natural Age-Related Eye Color Changes  

One of the most common situations that leads to changes in eye color occurs in children. When a baby is born, their eyes are usually lighter or bluer. Mainly, this is because a newborn hasn’t had sun exposure, so the melanin in their eyes isn’t fully developed. As they are exposed to light, melanin production increases, causing the color of their eyes to shift.  

However, eye color changes can also occur as a person ages. Those with lighter color eyes – especially Caucasians – may see their eyes lighten over time. The pigment slow degrades over time, resulting in less color.  

Other Situations Leading to Eye Color Changes  

Sun Exposure  

Since melanin plays a role in eye color, exposure to the sun can lead to eye color changes. Usually, it requires prolonged exposure and results in the irises darkening.  

Medical Treatments  

Some medications may alter eye color. One prime example was a name-brand eyelash growth serum that was available by prescription. While the side effect was rare and usually required the drops to be applied to the eye – not the lash line, as it was meant to be used – a chemical in the serum could have the ability to impact eye pigments.  

It’s also possible for other medications and surgeries to result in eye color changes. If that’s a potential side effect of a treatment, your eye care specialist will discuss it in advance.  

Nearby Colors  

In some cases, it may look like your eye color has changed when, in reality, your eyes are the same color. Changes to the size of your pupils can cause your eye color to appear slightly different. Partially, this is because your limbal ring (the darker ring on the outside of the iris) is closer to the pupil’s edge. This can make your eye color appear darker because less of the iris is visible.  

Additionally, other colors near your eyes may impact how your eye color is perceived. For example, your clothing, makeup, hair, and glasses frame color may all influence the apparent hue of your irises. However, most of that is an illusion.  

When a different color is near your eye, slight reflections of those shades might make your eye color seem different, even though it isn’t. In a similar vein, changing the colors that are near your eyes may create more or less contrast than is usually there, making the hue seem stronger or weaker due to an adjustment in the comparison.  

Similarly, crying, allergies, or other activities that cause the sclera – the white part of the eye – to redden may make the irises seem slightly different. Again, this is because the area near the iris changed hues, not because the iris itself is a new color.  

Medical Conditions  

There are medical conditions that can lead to shifts in eye color. Heterochromia – a condition that causes a person to have two different colored irises or more than one color in a single iris – may result in color changes. Horner’s syndrome may cause the eyes to lighten. Pigmentary glaucoma and Fuch’s heterochromic uveitis – an inflammatory condition – may also result in changes to the iris. The same goes for eye melanoma, a type of cancer.  

Consult a Reputable Eye Doctor

The eye care specialists in Buffalo, NY at ECVA take the safety and health of our patients’ eyes seriously. If you have concerns about your eye health or simply haven’t had an eye exam in a while, we can help. Schedule an appointment at your closest ECVA clinic today.  

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What Are the Types of Glaucoma?

a close up of a female having her eyes examined

January is Glaucoma Awareness month, a time of year where we take a close look at the condition and focus on sharing information to help patients maintain their eye health. While we covered the basics in a recent article – Understanding Glaucoma – we wanted to seize this opportunity to take a deeper dive into the topic.  

Glaucoma is often thought of as a single eye condition. However, there is more than one type of glaucoma, each with its own unique characteristics.  

If you are diagnosed with glaucoma, it’s wise to explore more about your specific variant. That way, you won’t just know more about how the condition is impacting your eye health, but also how the treatment options and outcomes can differ.  

Here’s a look at each of the types of glaucoma, including their characteristics, treatment options, and more.  

Open-Angle Glaucoma  

Open-angle glaucoma is the most common form of the condition. With open-angle glaucoma, the angle between the cornea and the iris is wide and open, essentially the way it is meant to be. Issues arise when the drainage canals become blocked, preventing proper fluid flow and leading to fluid accumulation.  

As the fluid builds up, the pressure increases. That pressure ultimately causes damage to the optic nerve, disrupting vision signals between the eye and the brain.  

Many people with open-angle glaucoma are initially unaware they have the condition. The fluid buildup usually happens slowly over time and doesn’t typically result in physical discomfort. Typically, people with open-angle glaucoma only become aware once they begin experiencing vision loss unless it is caught earlier during a standard eye exam.  

Open-angle glaucoma can lead to significant vision loss, up to blindness. With proper treatment, damage can be mitigated or slowed, potentially preserving your vision. However, there is no cure for any form of glaucoma, including open-angle.  

Acute Angle-Closure Glaucoma  

Angle-closure glaucoma is also the result of fluid buildup. However, fluid flow is disrupted due to the narrowing of the entrance points of the drainage canals. At times, those openings are simply too small to allow for proper fluid flow. However, they can also be shut entirely, either by design or due to clogging.  

With angle-closure glaucoma, symptoms typically appear quickly. Along with vision loss, eye pain, headaches, and nausea commonly occur. There may also be eye redness as well as a halo effect around lights.   

Angle-closure glaucoma causes vision loss and may lead to blindness. It is also considered a medical emergency. As with open-angle glaucoma, there isn’t a cure. Though, with quick treatment, it’s possible to reduce the harmful effects of the condition.  

Normal-Tension Glaucoma  

With normal-tension glaucoma, pressure isn’t the issue, though optic nerve damage still occurs, resulting in vision changes or loss. In some cases, trauma may be to blame. In others, it could be heightened optic nerve sensitivity, blood flow issues, or circulation impairments.  

Normal-tension glaucoma, like the other versions, also can’t be cured. However, it can be managed, especially if caught early.  

At ECVA, our staff works tirelessly to care for the eye health of our patients. If you haven’t had your eyes checked recently or are experiencing symptoms of glaucoma, schedule an appointment at your closest ECVA clinic today.  

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How to Tell If You Have a Scratched Cornea

person rubbing their eyes

The cornea is the thin, transparent outer layer of the eye that extends over the iris and pupil. Since it’s on the surface of the eye, it can sustain a direct injury.  

Corneal abrasions – or scratches on the cornea – can vary in severity. At times, the abrasion is relatively mild, causing only subtle symptoms. However, the scratches can be incredibly serious and may lead to additional problems, including corneal ulcers or iritis.  

Understanding the symptoms of a scratched cornea can help you determine if such an abrasion may cause any symptoms you’re experiencing. If you are wondering whether you have a scratched cornea, here’s what you need to know.  

Causes of a Scratched Cornea  

Generally speaking, scratched corneas can occur when something comes in contact with the surface of the eye. While it can be caused by a traumatic event, such as being intentionally or accidentally poked in the eye by a person or pet, those aren’t how must occur.  

Everyday incidental contact is a more likely culprit. For example, sand and dust getting into your eye could lead to abrasion, as well as debris from an industrial workplace. Makeup brushes can cause scratches as well, along with incorrectly removing a contact lens.  

Even dry eyes can be to blame. If your eyes get dry while sleeping, opening your eyelids in the morning can lead to abrasions due to the lack of moisture and the increased amount of friction.  

Essentially, anything that touches the cornea directly can damage the delicate tissue.  

Symptoms of a Scratched Cornea  

A scratched cornea can cause a range of symptoms, including:  

  • Eye Discomfort
  • A Gritty Sensation in the Eye
  • Eye Pain
  • Light Sensitivity
  • Excessive Tearing
  • Eye Redness
  • Blurry Vision
  • Headache

Mild abrasions may only produce mild symptoms, such as a general feeling of discomfort. The more severe the abrasions tend to be, the more noticeable symptoms often are. However, even a mild scratch can evolve into a more dangerous condition if not properly treated.  

Common Treatment for a Scratched Cornea  

If you suspect that you’ve scratched your cornea, it’s wise to take a few steps immediately. If you have scratched cornea symptoms, remove your contact lenses (if you wear them) carefully. Additionally, please don’t wear them again until your eye is fully healed.  

Flushing the eye with a saline solution is a smart move. That will help rinse out any dust, dirt, or debris, if any is present. After rinsing, blink multiple times to help remove the particles naturally.  

Resist the urge to rub your eyes. If any particles remain on the surface or embedded in the eye, rubbing can cause additional scratches or make an existing abrasion worse.  

When to Call a Doctor  

If you’ve rinsed your eye with saline and you’re still experiencing redness, pain, or the feeling that debris is stuck in your eye, seek immediate medical attention. A corneal abrasion can be incredibly serious, and prompt treatment is necessary to avoid further damage.  

Contact your optometrist or ophthalmologist right away for an emergency appointment. That way, they can evaluate your eye and determine if additional treatment is necessary.  

Your Eye Health is Our Priority 

At ECVA, our staff works tirelessly to care for our patients’ eyes, including evaluating and treating injuries as quickly as possible. If you suspect a corneal abrasion, schedule an appointment at your closest ECVA clinic today. 

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Cloudy Vision vs. Blurry Vision

Describing a vision issue is challenging for many patients. It’s hard to find the right words to express precisely what you’re experiencing. At times, this leads some patients to use the terms “cloudy” and “blurry” interchangeably. After all, they both denote a reduction in visual acuity, so it’s common to assume their meanings are similar.  

However, cloud vision and blurry vision are two very different situations. If you are wondering what they have in common and what sets them apart, here’s a close look at what cloudy vision and blurry vision involve.  

Cloudy Vision  

In the simplest terms, cloudy vision is when it seems like you are observing everything through a fog. It makes everything you look at seem like it is shrouded in a haze. At times, it could seem similar to looking at the world through dirty glasses lenses or a fogged car windshield.  

When you have cloudy vision, it may also feel like there’s a film on your eyes. It may seem like you could potentially blink or wipe away that film, restoring your vision, but that doesn’t always work.  

Cloudy vision can be caused by a variety of conditions, with cataracts being the most common. When you have cataracts, your eye’s lens loses transparency, creating cloudy vision. Other potential causes include:  

  • Corneal damage  
  • Diabetes  
  • Infection  
  • Macular degeneration  
  • Optic nerve disease  

Improper contact lens care can also lead to cloudy vision. If the lens isn’t thoroughly cleaned, residue may impact visual acuity, just as it can through smudged lenses on glasses.  

Blurry Vision  

In the most basic sense, blurry vision is when you look at an object and it doesn’t appear to be in focus. It isn’t unlike when you take a picture with a camera. Before you adjust the lens, the object you are trying to capture doesn’t seem crisp. Then, once you adjust the camera’s lens, it becomes clear.  

Usually, when your vision is blurry, certain actions may make the item seem clearer. Squinting may bring it into better focus, similar to how a camera lens adjustment can.  

Many conditions can cause blurry vision. Near-sightedness, far-sightedness, and astigmatism are the most common and are usually correctable with prescription lenses. Other factors can also lead to blurry vision, including:  

  • Cataracts  
  • Corneal abrasions, opacification, or scarring  
  • Infection  
  • Low blood sugar  
  • Macular degeneration  
  • Migraine  
  • Optic neuritis  
  • Retinopathy  
  • Stroke  

In some cases, blurry vision is temporary. However, it can also require intervention and could potentially be permanent, depending on the cause.  

If you are experiencing vision changes, including cloudy or blurry vision, it’s wise to see an eye doctor as soon as possible. That way, they can determine the cause of your issue, ensuring you are treated promptly and correctly. Schedule an appointment at your closest ECVA clinic today. Our team will listen to your concerns and identify the ideal course of action, ensuring your eyes can remain healthy, and your vision issues are addressed appropriately.