“Low vision” occurs when your vision has become so impaired that eyeglasses and contact lenses no longer help to improve your vision. Many people confuse “low vision” with “blindness,” but the two are different. If you have low vision, you will still be able to see, just not very well. A person with low vision has a visual acuity of 20/40 to 20/200 with correction. Whereas a person who is considered legally blind has a visual acuity of 20/200 or worse with correction. If your vision has significantly worsened, you should schedule an appointment with Carolina Vision Care to be evaluated.
Types of Low Vision
There are a few different types of low vision:
- Loss of central vision: This occurs when you have a blind spot in the center of your vision. This can make it difficult to see objects right in front of you.
- Loss of peripheral vision: This occurs when your side vision is diminished. It can also occur when your upper or lower vision is reduced.
- Blurry vision: This type of low vision occurs when objects up close and at a distance are out of focus.
What Causes Low Vision?
There are several medical reasons for your significant loss of sight. These may include:
- Uncontrolled diabetes
- Glaucoma
- Cataracts
- Macular degeneration
- Eye trauma
- Cancer of the eye
- Stroke
- Brain injury
What Is Involved In a Low Vision Assessment?
The first part of a low vision assessment is a comprehensive vision exam with your doctor of optometry. Your doctor will test your visual acuity. They will also perform a dilated eye exam to check for diseases of the eye that could be causing your vision loss.
If you are diagnosed with low vision, you will work with your doctor or a social worker to determine how much of an impact your vision loss has on your life and your family. They will also discuss potential treatments.
How Is Low Vision Treated?
The best way to improve your vision and improve your quality of life is to use low vision aids such as:
- Telescopic glasses which magnify objects much greater than traditional glasses
- Light filtering lenses
- Text reading software for your cellphone and computer
- Audiobooks
- Large print publications
- Talking watches and clocks
Regular eye care with Carolina Vision Care in Greenville is essential for the health of your vision and your eyes. If your vision has significantly diminished, our doctors can perform an examination and make referrals to a low vision specialist for further evaluation and treatment with low vision aids. To schedule an appointment, give us a call (or text) at 252-752-4380.