Vision impairment is the decreased ability to see that is not correctable by standard means, such as glasses or contact lenses. It affects individuals of all ages and backgrounds, and it influences how they interact with the world. This condition exists on a spectrum, ranging from partial sight to complete blindness. Here are some different types of vision impairment and their causes:
Central Vision Loss
Central vision loss disrupts your ability to see what is straight ahead, affecting the center of your visual field. When your central vision is impaired, reading books, threading a needle, or recognizing familiar faces can become difficult. Actions like watching television or using a computer also become less accessible, as the clearest part of your eyesight no longer functions correctly. Despite these challenges, your peripheral vision often remains intact, letting you detect motion or see objects off to the side. Several eye conditions commonly lead to central vision loss, such as:
- Age-related macular degeneration: AMD is a primary cause, especially for adults over 50. AMD occurs when the macula, which is responsible for sharp, straight-ahead vision, starts to deteriorate. Some people experience a slow progression, while others notice sudden changes.
- Macular edema: Swelling in the macula results from fluid leaking from damaged blood vessels in the retina, which can occur in diabetic eye disease or other conditions.
- Inherited disorders: Conditions such as Stargardt’s disease may also contribute to central vision loss, especially in younger people.
Peripheral Vision Loss
Peripheral vision loss limits your ability to see things on the edges of your sight, whether above, below, or to either side of your central gaze. You might miss someone approaching from the side or have difficulty maneuvering in crowded places. A narrowed field of view can make activities like driving or playing sports riskier, and depth perception is also typically affected.
Glaucoma is a leading cause of peripheral vision loss. In glaucoma, increased pressure inside the eye gradually damages the optic nerve, which connects your eye and your brain. Damage usually begins at the periphery of vision, often remaining painless and slow, which sometimes delays detection. Stroke or certain types of brain injury might also reduce peripheral awareness, although this occurs less commonly. Regular screening and an awareness of changes in your visual field help address these types of vision loss.
Blurry or Hazy Vision
Blurry or hazy vision impairment occurs when objects appear unclear or out of focus, even at close range. You might feel like you’re peering through fogged-up glasses or a window smeared with condensation. This may affect your whole sight or certain parts of it. Tasks such as reading, identifying street signs, or focusing on fine details often become difficult. Blurry or hazy vision may lead to frequent eye strain and headaches. A common cause is cataracts, a clouding of the eye’s natural lens, and these typically develop gradually, blurring only a small part of your vision before spreading. As the lens grows cloudy, less light reaches the retina, making rooms seem dim and objects washed out.
Manage Vision Impairment Today
Learning about your specific type of vision loss is the first step in managing daily life. Practical tools, such as magnifying glasses, screen readers, and adaptive lighting, can help maintain independence, and low-vision specialists provide treatments to slow the condition’s progression. Contact a vision impairment specialist today to schedule a consultation.
