Hazy vision is similar to cloudy sight, with reduced contrast and a veil over details. It can arise from optical scatter, surface irregularities, or media opacities.
Typical Sources
Early cataract, dry eye, corneal surface disease, and mild corneal oedema are frequent causes. Vitreous haze from inflammation or small haemorrhages and macular oedema can also make vision appear washed out and indistinct.
- Patients often struggle with night driving and reading fine print
- Symptoms may fluctuate with blinking or lighting conditions
- Contact lens deposits and dirty spectacles commonly worsen haze
- Systemic medications such as steroids can contribute via lens changes
Clinical Approach
An eye examination determines whether the haze is primarily from the cornea, lens, vitreous, or retina. Treatment is directed accordingly, from lubrication and lens cleaning to managing cataract or retinal disease.
- Regular lens cleaning can quickly improve haze from smudged spectacles
- Persistent haziness despite clear optics requires further investigation
- Urgent review is needed if hazy vision is sudden or unilateral with other symptoms
- Monitoring allows timely escalation when conservative measures are insufficient
