Your eyesight enables you to engage in everyday activities and to complete daily tasks, especially those that require the use of optical faculties. While there are numerous eye problems that could impair your vision, a majority of them can be corrected using prescription eyeglasses, surgery or other vision-related treatments. However, there is one eye condition that cannot be fixed by the aforementioned treatments and methods.
Northern Virginia Doctors of Optometry talks about low vision and how it differs from other eye disorders.
Defining Low Vision
Low vision pertains to a visual impairment that cannot be remedied by conventional vision-correcting paraphernalia, surgeries and treatments. Keep in mind that low vision does not include complete blindness. However, it does involve varying degrees of eyesight loss. Your overall vision is comprised of different aspects, namely central vision, peripheral vision, contrast sensitivity and depth perception.
Low vision may affect any, some or all of these aspects of eyesight. It’s best to consult your eye doctor if you’re struggling with tasks that rely heavily on visual capacity, even with the aid of corrective eyeglasses or contact lenses. It impairs not only your vision, but also your quality of life.
Causes of Low Vision
Low vision is caused by a variety of factors. It can be age or injury-related. Low vision can also be a result of other medical conditions, such as glaucoma, eye cancer, diabetes, stroke, albinism and brain injury, to name a few. Keep in mind that only doctors and eye specialists can determine these causes for certain.
Low Vision Treatment
While any degree or extent of vision loss may seem debilitating, there are ways to manage low vision. There are visual aids that greatly ease the struggles that come with the condition. These vision aids include high-powered eyeglasses, reading prisms, hand-held or freestanding magnifying glasses, and special reading implements, such as lamps and filters.
Low vision therapy will help you learn how to use and get accustomed to these vision tools. The specialized therapy can also help you connect to support groups. Know that there is hope. Organizations like The American Foundation® for the Blind (AFB) offers careers to individuals who are visually impaired.
Northern Virginia Doctors of Optometry is highly equipped and trained to deal with low vision cases. Reach out to us for all your vision-related needs. You may call us (703) 573-1200. We work with patients throughout Northern Virginia, D.C., and Maryland including Falls Church, VA..