Summer can be harsh on your eyes, and the intensity of the sun during July can make it even harder to see. People suffering from low vision may have an especially hard time this month, which is why it is important for them to visit their optometrist more frequently. Learn more about the causes and symptoms of this condition.
Understanding Low Vision
Low vision is vision loss that is irreversible and cannot be corrected with glasses, contact lenses, surgery, or medication. People who suffer from this condition may not be able to complete daily activities as well as those with healthy vision.
Causes of Low Vision
Low vision is caused by macular degeneration (also referred to as AMD), which affects the macula, the area of your eye that is controls sharp detail. Over 15 million people over 50 years old have contracted low vision due to aging, but other factors such as cataracts, glaucoma, and diabetic retinopathy can also cause low vision. If a person has suffered from optic nerve damage, he or she could be born with low vision. It is important to be aware of low vision, as you may suffer from it as you get older, or you may know someone with this problem. Make sure to contact your optometrist if you are not able to see clearly with the aid of glasses or contact lenses.
How to Tell if You Have Low Vision
Contact your optometrist for a low-vision exam to determine if you have the condition. This examination checks your regular eyes’ daily functions and activities. Make sure to have a yearly exam to ensure that you do not wait too long to detect any signs of future or current eye problems. Set up an appointment with your optometrist to get more reliable information on low vision and how to prevent it.
For more information about low vision or to schedule an eye exam with one of our optometrists, visit our website.
