Blurred Vision

Low Vision

Low Vision in the News:

What is Low Vision?
Low Vision is a visual impairment that consists of partial sight or sight that isn't fully correctable with surgery, pharmaceuticals, contact lenses or glasses. The term low vision is most often used when referring to vision impairment resulting from such conditions as macular degeneration, cataracts, glaucoma, and diabetic retinopathy. It affects nearly one quarter of the U.S. population. Warning signs include:

Signs and Symptoms:

Hazy or blurred vision
Loss of peripheral vision
Color confusion
Trouble reading, cooking or doing close-up tasks
Difficulty recognizing familiar faces
Light sensitivity (complaints that lights are too dim indoors)
Problems reading street signs or crossing the street

Diagnosis:
Only an eyecare professional can accurately diagnose the conditions associated with low vision. Tests performed during a regular eye exam will allow your eye doctor to determine if you have the condition. For more on the basics of eye exams, click here.

Causes/Risk Factors:

AMD
cataracts
glaucoma
diabetes

Prevention: Comprehensive eye exams are the most important component to ensuring overall healthy vision. To find an eye doctor in your area, use our Doctor Locator to the left.