Waking up with blurry vision can be unsettling, but in many cases, it’s harmless and temporary.
However, it can also point to deeper issues that shouldn't be ignored. Here are some possible causes of morning blurry vision, and what you can do about them.
Dry tears can cause morning haze
Your eyes produce tears constantly, even while you sleep. But if those tears dry on the surface of your eyes overnight, you might wake up with a blurry, hazy view.
A few blinks are often enough to rehydrate your cornea and clear things up.
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Eye allergies might be the culprit
Itchy, watery, or swollen eyes in the morning can be a sign of allergies.
Common triggers include dust mites, pet dander, or laundry detergents used on bedding, all of which can cause blurry vision after sleep.
Sleeping face down affects your eyelids
If you sleep on your face, you may develop floppy eyelid syndrome.
This condition causes your upper eyelid to lose elasticity, leading to symptoms like burning, tearing, and blurry vision in the morning.
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You may have Fuchs’ corneal dystrophy
This inherited eye condition causes your cornea to swell overnight, which clouds your vision in the morning.
It's more common in women and typically shows up around age 50. Vision usually improves as the day progresses.
Your nighttime medications might be drying your eyes
Certain medications, like antihistamines, sleeping pills, blood pressure meds, or cold remedies, can reduce tear production.
If taken before bed, they might leave you with dry, blurry eyes in the morning.
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You’re sleeping with your contact lenses in
Wearing contact lenses while you sleep limits the oxygen supply to your eyes.
This can lead to dryness and blurry vision when you wake up. Always remove your lenses before going to bed.
Alcohol before bed can dehydrate your eyes
A nightcap might feel relaxing, but alcohol dehydrates your body, including your eyes. This dehydration can result in temporary blurry vision the next morning.
Blood sugar imbalances may be a warning sign
Waking up with blurry vision could also point to blood sugar that’s too high or too low.
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If accompanied by fatigue, dizziness, or weakness, it might be an early sign of diabetes and should be evaluated by a doctor.
Overactive oil glands may be irritating your eyes
Tiny oil glands around your eyes, called meibomian glands, can produce excess oil and tears at night. This imbalance can cause irritation and blurry vision upon waking.
Sleeping with a fan can dry out your eyes
While a fan can create a comfortable sleeping environment, it can also dry out your skin and eyes, even with your eyelids closed.
This dryness may leave you rubbing your eyes to clear up the blurriness in the morning.
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This article is based on information from Healthline.com.