This February is Low Vision Awareness Month. Learn more about low vision and how to decrease the chance of developing low vision.
Low Vision and Eyesight Loss
What is low vision?
Low vision is a condition in which a person loses a certain amount of eyesight. Everyday tasks can become difficult to complete with low vision. Although most people who have trouble seeing can regain their vision with medication, surgery, glasses, or other options, people with low vision cannot regain their sight and will experience permanent vision loss.
What causes low vision?
A few eye diseases can cause this condition, including macular degeneration, glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, and retinis pigmentosa. Although these conditions can occur at any age, they are more frequently seen in older people. Certain eye injuries can also cause low vision.
What are the signs of low vision?
If you cannot complete everyday tasks without experiencing difficulty seeing, you may have low vision. In some cases, a person may experience a “hole” or spots in his or her vision that get in the way of sight. Losing peripheral vision, night blindness, and blurry or hazy vision are also symptoms of low vision. Failing to distinguish facial features and a misperception of depth can also be signs of this condition.
How can low vision be treated?
If your ophthalmologist has diagnosed you with low vision, unfortunately, there is no cure. Instead, you will have to get creative about the way that you can use the vision you still have left. Do not give up your activities, hobbies, or whatever else you enjoy doing. It is important to keep up your normal routine. There are tools and resources for people with low vision, so there is no need to change your lifestyle to adapt to low vision.
To learn more about low vision, or to schedule your annual eye exam at Valley Eyecare Center, call (602) 955-2700, or visit our website.
