Blurred vision

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Blurred vision

Template:Search infobox Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]

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Overview

  • Common ophthalmic symptom
  • Vision is less sharp and an inability to see small details exists
  • Alterations of the optical surfaces or media for which the visual axis travels typically cause blurred vision
  • Refractive errors cause the majority of blurred vision complaints.
  • Most can be corrected with glasses

Differential Diagnosis

In alphabetical order. [1] [2]



Diagnosis

History and Symptoms

  • Detailed history important, including the following:
    • Duration of symptoms
    • Progression of symptoms
    • Near or far sighted
    • Permanent or transient
    • Binocular or uniocular
  • Past medical history
  • Associated symptoms

Physical Examination

Appearance of the Patient

Eyes

  • Complete ophthalmologic exam including:
    • Slit lamp examination
    • Dilated fundus exam
    • Visual acuity
    • Improvement of vision with pinhole
    • Dry or irritated eyes

Ear Nose and Throat

Palpate the temporal area to determine if there is pain in the temporal area to suggest temporal arteritis

  • Neurologic exam if necessary

Laboratory Findings

Electrolyte and Biomarker Studies

Check erythrocyte sedimentation rate to rule out temporal arteritis

Other Imaging Findings

Treatment

  • Treat underlying pathologies
  • For dry eyes, lubrication
  • Appropriate treatment for hyperviscosity

Pharmacotherapy

Acute Pharmacotherapies

  • Antiseizure prophylaxis (seizure disorders)

Surgery and Device Based Therapy

  • Glasses or contact lenses for blurred vision due to refractive errors
  • Possible surgical repair for retinal detachment
  • Temporal artery biopsy may be needed

References

  1. Sailer, Christian, Wasner, Susanne. Differential Diagnosis Pocket. Hermosa Beach, CA: Borm Bruckmeir Publishing LLC, 2002:77 ISBN 1591032016
  2. Kahan, Scott, Smith, Ellen G. In A Page: Signs and Symptoms. Malden, Massachusetts: Blackwell Publishing, 2004:68 ISBN 140510368X

Acknowledgements

The content on this page was first contributed by Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [3]

List of contributors:


Suggested Reading and Key General References

Suggested Links and Web Resources

For Patients

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