The term “low vision” applies to the types of visual impairment that can’t be corrected with prescription eyeglasses, contact lenses or eye surgery. Eye care specialist Vienna Eyecare Center provides an overview of this eye condition in today’s post.
Low Vision
Eye conditions such as myopia (nearsightedness) and hyperopia (farsightedness) can typically be corrected through corrective eyewear, LASIK or orthokeratology. There are, however, certain conditions that cannot be treated via these methods. Hazy vision resulting from cataracts, injurie, or diabetic retinopathy, as well as gradual loss of eyesight from late-stage glaucoma and macular degeneration, can be classified as low vision. In most of these cases, conventional corrective measures will do little to help.
What Can Be Done About Low Vision
Preventive measures are the best way to prevent or slow down the progress of conditions that lead to low vision. Glaucoma and macular degeneration, in particular, are asymptomatic in the early stages, making these conditions hard to detect until they’re at an advanced stage. By the time the symptoms are apparent, the progression can’t be stopped. Parents are encouraged to have their children visit an eye doctor for a complete eye examination. The tests include a noninvasive dilation test, in which the doctor views the retina and optic nerve. Taking these tests as early as possible lets you anticipate potential treatments, which won’t usually begin until adulthood.
Your eye doctor may refer the patient to a low vision specialist if symptoms that signal low vision begin to appear. Apart from the treatments used for cataracts, the low vision specialist may recommend devices that can help compensate for partial or full vision loss. Examples include portable handheld magnifiers that can be used for reading signs and product labels and looking at photos. Most smartphones now have accessibility options such as high-contrast menus, adjustable system font sizes and magnifiers. Non-technological aids such as large print books, audio recordings and special light fixtures are also available.
To learn more about low vision, or if you need the services of an optometrist, call Vienna Eyecare Center today at (703) 938-7633. You can also fill out our contact form to schedule an eye care appointment. We serve Fairfax, VA, and surrounding areas.
