Variable vision refers to sight that changes from clear to blurred over minutes, hours, or days. It often reflects fluctuations in the tear film, blood sugar, or lens clarity.
Typical Triggers
Dry eye and unstable tear film cause intermittent blur that improves with blinking or drops. People with diabetes may notice changing focus as blood sugar levels shift, and early cataract or corneal oedema can blur vision more at certain times of day.
- Contact lens dryness or deposits commonly lead to on-off clarity
- Medications, fatigue, and dehydration can temporarily affect acuity
- Neurological or vascular events can produce transient episodes of loss
- Variable refraction after eye surgery is common during early healing
Investigating the Pattern
Clarifying timing, triggers, and whether one or both eyes are affected helps direct testing. Surface evaluation, refraction, blood tests, and imaging may all play a role.
- Persistent fluctuation merits full eye and medical assessment
- Stabilising dryness or systemic control often improves consistency
- Sudden transient attacks with neurological signs require emergency review
- Keeping a symptom diary supports accurate diagnosis
