Eye doctors are professionals who can help you with all sorts of visual health issues. And, while most people will see an eye doctor when they need glasses, there are quite a few other reasons why it is a good idea to contact the professional. Sudden blurring of the vision is one thing that you may experience. Keep reading to learn about a few serious issues that can cause sudden blurring and what your eye doctor will do about it.
1. Macular Degeneration
The macula is a structure within the eye that is part of the retina. And, breakdown of the macula can result in permanent and substantial vision loss. This is referred to as macular degeneration. There are two types of the disease called dry and wet and wet macular degeneration can cause a great deal of blurriness across the visual field.
Blurring occurs as fluids build within the macula. Fluid accumulation is the result of abnormal capillaries that leak plasma directly into the eye. And, the central vision is affected by this. Sometimes, you may experience some blind spots as well.
Your eye doctor will perform a variety of tests to diagnose wet macular degeneration. The eye is examined for fluid accumulation and broken blood vessels along the retina. And, if vessels are damaged, angiography is completed with the use of a dye to gauge the extent of the problem.
Stopping the growth of new and abnormal capillaries across the retina is the key to treatment. So, your eye doctor will inject medicine directly into the eye for this purpose. Injections must occur on a regular schedule once every four weeks or more. And, you should see some visual restoration with treatment.
2. Stroke
Blood clots can develop within the body and the solid formations may travel throughout the vascular system to occlude arteries and capillaries. When a clot travels to the brain, it can affect the flow of blood to one or both of your eyes. This is considered a stroke and you will likely experience blurred vision.
Eye doctors understand that strokes can cause blurred vision, so they will ask about other signs that you may be experiencing. If weakness, numbness, tingling, or other sensations are felt along the extremities, then your doctor may suggest a trip to the ER as soon as possible. The stroke can be treated with clot-busting medications.
Strokes can affect visual acuity, so your eye doctor will meet with you after the emergency situation subsides. A complete eye exam will be completed at this time and new glasses may be required.
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