Cloudy vision

What is cloudy vision?

Often confused with blurry vision, cloudy vision is when objects appear ‘milky’ as if you’re looking through a cloudy piece of glass in one or both eyes. It can also dull your perception of colours and cause you to see halos around lights.

Common causes

The most common cause of cloudy vision is cataracts, which is when the natural crystalline lens of your eye becomes cloudy over time and loses its transparency. Most cataracts develop as part of the aging process and are therefore seen mainly in the elderly population. 

Cloudy vision can also be a result of changes in or damage to the cornea, the clear front surface of your eye, including infections or inflammations. 

Less common conditions that may contribute to cloudy vision include: diabetes, optic nerve disease and macular degeneration.

Next steps

We want to help you see clearly and keep your eyes healthy for as long as possible. If your optometrist detects any signs of an eye condition during your comprehensive eye exam, they will determine an appropriate management plan that suits your needs.