Differential Diagnosis for Blurry Wavy Vision
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Migraine aura: Brief episodes of blurry, wavy vision are common symptoms of a migraine aura, which can occur without a subsequent headache. The timing and transient nature of the symptoms support this diagnosis.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Ocular migraine: Similar to a migraine aura, but the visual symptoms can be more pronounced and may not be followed by a headache. The brief duration and description of the vision as "blurry wavy" fit this condition.
- Dry eyes: Irritation or dryness in the eyes can cause temporary blurry vision, and the symptoms can be exacerbated in the evening due to prolonged screen time or other environmental factors.
- Refractive error or eye strain: Uncorrected or under-corrected vision problems, or strain from focusing on screens or other close work, can lead to temporary blurry vision.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Transient ischemic attack (TIA) or stroke: Although less likely given the brief and transient nature of the symptoms, it's crucial to consider vascular events, especially in patients with risk factors. Visual disturbances can be a symptom of a TIA or stroke.
- Retinal detachment: Sudden onset of blurry or wavy vision, especially if accompanied by floaters or flashes of light, could indicate a retinal detachment, which is a medical emergency.
- Optic neuritis: Inflammation of the optic nerve can cause vision loss or disturbances, including blurry vision, and is more common in young adults.
Rare Diagnoses
- Multiple sclerosis: Visual symptoms, including blurry vision, can be a presenting feature of multiple sclerosis, although this would typically be accompanied by other neurological symptoms.
- Vitreous detachment: Similar to retinal detachment, but involves the vitreous gel pulling away from the retina. Symptoms can include sudden onset of floaters and blurry vision.
- Occipital lobe seizure: Rarely, seizures originating in the occipital lobe can cause visual disturbances, including blurry or wavy vision, but these are usually accompanied by other seizure symptoms.