Low Vision

The Importance of Preventing or Slowing Down Low Vision Problems

Having good vision is an important aspect for everyone as it allows us to see faces, items, and colors well. But our eyes are vulnerable to many health conditions that can diminish this feature. If you find yourself unable to perform your daily tasks because your vision is not clear, you may a complex problem called low vision. Fortunately, though, there are eye care options for people with low vision that allow them to accomplish their everyday tasks.

What is Low Vision?

It is visual impairment and loss of sight that cannot be corrected with glasses, contact lenses, surgery, or medication. The condition is characterized by different levels of impairment. A person might have just a blind spot or experience almost complete loss of sight. Low vision affects mostly older adults aged 40 and above. 

There are several types of vision impairment, such as: 

• Central Vision Loss: The presence of the blind spot in the center of the vision field
• Side (peripheral) Vision Loss: Inability to see anything to either side, above, or below eye level, but the central vision is not affected
• Night Blindness: Vision impairment in poorly lit places or outside at night time
• Blurred Vision: All objects are blurred and out of focus
• Hazy Vision: All objects look like covered with glare or a film

Why It Is Important to Address Low Vision

Although this condition will not result in permanent vision loss, it is still important to address this vision issue. If left untreated, visual impairment leads to decreased quality of life and increased risk of such mental disorders as anxiety and depression. Low vision also impacts a person's independence and makes performing most daily activities impossible, including driving, reading, watching TV, and even getting dressed. 

Moreover, it might even be the symptom of other health conditions and diseases like glaucoma, cataracts, or diabetes. 

What You Can Do to Save Your Vision 

There are certain things you can do to prevent or slow down vision impairment, such as: 

• Get regular eye exams, especially after the age of 40
• Quit smoking
• To prevent eye damage from the sun, wear sunglasses
• If you are diagnosed with diabetes, control your blood sugar levels to delay vision loss
• Eat a balanced diet rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds
• Take dietary supplements and vitamins, especially vitamins C, A, and E
• Improve lighting in your home and workplace
• Watch your blood pressure, weight, and cholesterol level 

Our Optometry Clinic in Lebanon Is Here to Help Protect Your Eye Health and Vision

Dr. Cylinda Butler, our optometry professional of Butler Eyecare, provides high-quality eye care to help you see clearly for a lifetime. For over 15 years, we specialize in all types of optical services, including low vision care. We do our best to ensure the comfort and satisfaction of each patient because we value our patients' time and health. If you are experiencing any type of loss vision, do not lose your time. Call our optometry clinic in Lebanon today at (417) 991-3200 to schedule a consultation.