What causes dryness and blurred vision in the eyes?

Mar 18, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Wang Shuai

Introduction

With increasing age, the function of the lacrimal glands gradually declines, leading to reduced tear secretion and symptoms such as dryness and blurred vision. In daily life, one can consume more foods rich in vitamin A, such as carrots and animal livers. Artificial tears, such as sodium hyaluronate eye drops, may be used when necessary to relieve eye dryness. Prolonged staring at electronic screens or reading decreases the frequency of blinking.

Dryness and blurred vision may be caused by aging, excessive eye use, lack of sleep, dry eye syndrome, glaucoma, and other factors. Appropriate management strategies can be selected based on specific situations. If discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek medical attention at a hospital promptly and follow medical advice for treatment.

1. Aging: With increasing age, the lacrimal gland function gradually declines, resulting in reduced tear secretion and symptoms such as dry eyes and blurred vision. In daily life, one can consume more foods rich in vitamin A, such as carrots and animal livers. Artificial tears, such as sodium hyaluronate eye drops, may be used when necessary to relieve dryness.

2. Excessive Eye Use: Staring at electronic screens or reading for prolonged periods reduces blinking frequency and tear secretion, leading to dry eyes and blurred vision. After every 30-40 minutes of eye use, take a 5-10 minute break by looking into the distance or closing your eyes to rest. Eye exercises can also be performed appropriately to promote ocular blood circulation.

3. Lack of Sleep: Insufficient sleep prevents the eyes from adequate rest, causing ocular blood vessel congestion and affecting eye metabolism, which may result in dry eyes and blurred vision. Maintain a regular sleep schedule, ensure 7-8 hours of quality sleep daily, avoid using electronic devices before bedtime, and allow the eyes to relax.

4. Dry Eye Syndrome: Insufficient tear secretion or excessive evaporation leads to decreased tear film stability, noticeable dryness, foreign body sensation, and fluctuating vision. It is recommended to use medications such as polyvinyl alcohol eye drops, sodium hyaluronate eye drops, or Jinzhen eye drops under a doctor's guidance to alleviate symptoms.

5. Glaucoma: Elevated intraocular pressure damages the optic nerve. Early symptoms may include dry eyes and blurred vision, accompanied by eye swelling and headaches. Patients may follow medical advice to use medications such as pilocarpine nitrate eye drops, brinzolamide eye drops, or timolol maleate eye drops to lower intraocular pressure and relieve discomfort.

In daily life, it is recommended to maintain an appropriate indoor humidity level by using a humidifier. When outdoors, wear protective goggles to reduce eye irritation caused by wind and dust.

References:

[1] Yao Bo, Feng Wei, Xin Zhikun. Effect of Diclofenac Sodium Eye Drops Combined with Sodium Hyaluronate Eye Drops in the Treatment of Dry Eye Disease[J]. Guide of China Medicine, 2025, 23(05): 80-82. DOI:10.15912/j.issn.1671-8194.2025.05.023.

[2] Liu Yan, Wang Lanqian, Zhang Li. Research Progress on the Impact of Eye Usage Behaviors on the Onset and Development of Myopia in Children and Adolescents[J]. Chinese Journal of Strabismus and Pediatric Ophthalmology, 2023, 31(04): 43-44.

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