Why Does Your Vision Look Blurry When You Wake Up?

Some people experience blurred vision upon waking up, as if a transparent veil is covering their eyes and making the world appear hazy. This phenomenon is more common than many think. Sometimes, it’s temporary and linked to sleep habits, while in other cases it may signal an underlying health condition that requires attention.

So, what are the possible causes, and how can you deal with them?

Causes of Morning Blurred Vision

1. Dry Eyes

One of the most common causes is dryness. During sleep, blinking decreases and tear production slows down, leading to evaporation of the eye’s protective moisture layer. In some cases, eyelids don’t fully close at night, further exposing the eye to air and dryness. According to the Sleep Foundation, this makes the cornea less hydrated, causing temporary blurriness that usually clears after blinking or using eye drops.

2. Nighttime Eye Discharge

While sleeping, the eyes produce protective substances like proteins and oils that accumulate in the corners of the eyes—commonly called “eye gunk.” All About Vision notes that these secretions may stick to the eye surface or eyelids, causing hazy vision that disappears after washing the face.

3. Sleeping with Contact Lenses

Wearing contact lenses overnight reduces oxygen supply to the cornea and increases deposits on the lens surface, both of which cause blurry vision in the morning. Doctors recommend removing contact lenses before sleep, even extended-wear types, to lower the risk of dryness and infection.

4. Allergies and Environment

Environmental triggers such as dust, pet dander, or cleaning products may cause swollen eyelids and excessive tearing, affecting vision clarity in the morning. Sleeping in a dry room or under direct air from fans or air conditioners can also worsen dryness, making blurriness more noticeable upon waking.

5. Medications

Antihistamines, blood pressure drugs, sedatives, and even common cold medications can reduce tear production. Less moisture means dryness overnight and blurry vision first thing in the morning.

6. Blood Sugar Levels

Fluctuations in blood sugar, whether high or low, can temporarily affect the eye’s lens and vision clarity. For people with diabetes, morning blurriness may also be an early sign of retinal issues or complications, making it essential to monitor eye health closely.

7. Uncorrected Refractive Errors

Nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism can make the eyes strain to focus—especially noticeable upon waking. If the blur persists despite blinking or using eye drops, it may be time to update your glasses or contact prescription.

8. Chronic Eye Conditions

In some cases, blurred morning vision may be an early warning sign of serious conditions like glaucoma, cataracts, or macular degeneration. These require timely medical evaluation.

When Should You Worry?

Occasional blurriness that clears after washing your face or blinking isn’t usually alarming. However, see an eye doctor if you notice:

• Blurriness that persists throughout the day

• Severe eye pain or headaches

• Sudden partial or complete vision loss

• Recurrent symptoms alongside dizziness or weakness

Treatment and Prevention

Depending on the cause, these measures may help:

• Use lubricating eye drops as needed

• Never sleep with contact lenses

• Keep your sleep environment humid and comfortable

• Update your glasses or contacts regularly

• Monitor blood sugar if you have diabetes

• Schedule annual eye exams, especially after age 40