Contact lenses and eyeglasses are the standard treatments for correcting eyesight errors. When you have low vision, however, your visual capacity will be significantly compromised to the point where conventional vision correction options are ineffective. This may affect not only your health, but your quality of life as well. For your understanding, Dr. Joel H. McGahen, OD, answers commonly asked questions about this problem.
Q: How Does Low Vision Develop?
As you age, you may be at a higher risk for developing certain eye conditions, such as glaucoma, cataracts, and diabetic retinopathy, which may lead to low vision. Age-related macular degeneration and retinal tears may also result in this problem if left unmanaged. Brain trauma, eye injuries, uncorrected refractive errors and congenital vision conditions are common causes as well.
Q: What Happens When I Have Low Vision?
Low vision may leave you with only partially useful eyesight. This may give you a hard time seeing things from afar or up-close, preventing you from doing your daily tasks efficiently. Your central and peripheral vision may also be limited. Your depth, color and contrast perception may be affected as well. Sluggish visual reflexes is another sign to see your expert eye doctor for an evaluation.
Q: Is Low Vision Reversible?
Resolving low vision largely depends on its root cause. If diabetic retinopathy, for example, is the main problem, controlling your sugar levels may prevent low vision from progressing into a more serious problem, such as vision loss.
Q: How Is Low Vision Managed?
Your low vision specialist may prepare a rehabilitation program to develop and enhance your remaining eyesight. This usually involves doing certain eye exercises. We may also ask you to use magnifiers, prisms and audio books. Visual aids and computer-assisted activities may be effective as well. They can help you regain independence and improve your quality of life.
If you have any further questions about low vision, call us at (717) 609-4443 or fill out our form. We serve PA families in Shippensburg, Greencastle and nearby areas.