Differential Diagnosis for New Blurred Vision
- Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Refractive Error: The most common cause of new blurred vision is a refractive error, such as myopia, hyperopia, or astigmatism, which can be easily corrected with glasses or contact lenses. This is often due to a change in the shape of the cornea or lens inside the eye.
- Other Likely Diagnoses
- Dry Eye Syndrome: Insufficient tear production or poor tear quality can cause blurred vision, especially in people who spend a lot of time on computers or in dry environments.
- Cataracts: Clouding of the lens in the eye can cause blurred vision, especially in older adults.
- Glaucoma: A group of eye conditions that damage the optic nerve, often due to abnormally high pressure in the eye, can cause blurred vision, especially peripheral vision.
- Age-Related Macular Degeneration: A condition that causes vision loss in older adults due to damage to the macula, the part of the eye that provides sharp central vision.
- Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Diabetic Retinopathy: A complication of diabetes that can cause blurred vision, blindness, and even death if left untreated.
- Retinal Detachment: A medical emergency where the retina separates from the back of the eye, requiring immediate treatment to prevent permanent vision loss.
- Optic Neuritis: Inflammation of the optic nerve, which can cause blurred vision, pain, and even permanent vision loss if not treated promptly.
- Giant Cell Arteritis: Inflammation of the blood vessels in the head, which can cause blurred vision, headaches, and even stroke if not treated promptly.
- Rare Diagnoses
- Multiple Sclerosis: A chronic condition that affects the central nervous system, including the optic nerve, which can cause blurred vision, among other symptoms.
- Thyroid-Related Orbitopathy: A condition where the tissues around the eye, including the eyelids, eye socket, and lacrimal gland, become inflamed due to a thyroid disorder, causing blurred vision and other symptoms.
- Vitreous Detachment: A condition where the vitreous gel in the center of the eye separates from the retina, which can cause blurred vision and floaters.