Ślepota i utrata wzroku
Objawy

Ślepota definiowana jest jako całkowita lub częściowa utrata widzenia, której nie można skorygować za pomocą standardowych metod optycznych czy medycznych. Całkowita ślepota oznacza brak percepcji światła, natomiast ślepota prawna charakteryzuje się widzeniem z odległości 20 stóp tego, co osoba z prawidłowym wzrokiem widzi z 200 stóp. Objawy utraty wzroku obejmują m.in. niewyraźne widzenie, fotopsje, fotofobię, nagłą utratę widzenia, a także zmiany w polu widzenia takie jak ciemne plamy czy zniekształcenia linii. Nagła utrata wzroku, niezależnie od stopnia, stanowi stan nagły wymagający pilnej interwencji medycznej, gdyż może być spowodowana m.in. ostrą jaskrą, zapaleniem nerwu wzrokowego, odwarstwieniem siatkówki czy niedrożnością naczyń siatkówki. Warto podkreślić, że większość poważnych przypadków utraty wzroku przebiega bezbólowo, co nie zmniejsza konieczności szybkiej diagnostyki i leczenia.

Definicja ślepoty i utraty wzroku

Ślepota to brak możliwości widzenia lub brak wzroku. W najcięższych przypadkach występuje niemożność dostrzegania nawet światła. Oznacza to również, że nie można skorygować widzenia za pomocą okularów, soczewek kontaktowych, kropli do oczu, innej terapii medycznej lub operacji1. Całkowita ślepota oznacza brak widzenia i niemożność wykrycia światła przez oko1.

Utrata wzroku odnosi się do częściowej lub całkowitej utraty widzenia. Może ona nastąpić nagle lub rozwijać się w ciągu pewnego czasu2. Niektóre rodzaje utraty wzroku nigdy nie prowadzą do całkowitej ślepoty2. Ślepota prawna odnosi się do poważnie upośledzonego widzenia. To, co osoba z normalnym wzrokiem może zobaczyć z odległości 200 stóp, osoba niewidoma prawnie może zobaczyć tylko z odległości 20 stóp3.

Warto zauważyć, że termin „ślepota” jest często modyfikowany w naszym społeczeństwie, aby obejmować szeroki zakres upośledzenia wzroku4. Obecnie termin ten jest często używany do opisania poważnego spadku widzenia w jednym lub obu oczach z zachowaniem pewnego resztkowego widzenia4.

Objawy pogorszenia wzroku

Objawy, które mogą wystąpić podczas postępującej utraty wzroku, obejmują:1

  • Niewyraźne widzenie
  • Ból oczu
  • Mętki i błyski (fotopsje)
  • Wrażliwość na światło (fotofobia)
  • Nagła utrata wzroku lub nagłe pojawienie się czarnych plam w polu widzenia

Inne objawy mogące wskazywać na problemy z widzeniem to:56

  • Nietypowe problemy z dostosowaniem się do ciemnych pomieszczeń
  • Trudności z koncentracją na obiektach bliskich lub odległych
  • Mrużenie oczu lub mruganie z powodu niezwykłej wrażliwości na światło lub olśnienie
  • Zmiana koloru tęczówki
  • Zaczerwienione, pokryte strupami lub opuchnięte powieki
  • Nawracający ból w oczach lub wokół nich
  • Podwójne widzenie
  • Ciemna plama w centrum widzenia
  • Linie i krawędzie wydają się zniekształcone lub faliste
  • Nadmierne łzawienie lub wodne oczy
  • Suche oczy ze swędzeniem lub pieczeniem
  • Widzenie plam, obrazów podobnych do duchów

Objawy wymagające natychmiastowej opieki medycznej

Nagła utrata wzroku jest zawsze stanem nagłym, nawet jeśli nie nastąpiła całkowita utrata widzenia2. Nigdy nie należy ignorować utraty wzroku, myśląc, że się poprawi2. Większość poważnych form utraty wzroku jest bezbolesna, a brak bólu w żaden sposób nie zmniejsza pilnej potrzeby uzyskania opieki medycznej2.

Poniższe objawy mogą wskazywać na potencjalnie poważne problemy wymagające natychmiastowej pomocy medycznej:67

  • Nagła utrata wzroku w jednym oku
  • Nagłe mętne lub niewyraźne widzenie
  • Błyski światła lub czarne plamy
  • Aureole lub tęcze wokół świateł
  • Kurtynowe zasłonięcie pola widzenia
  • Utrata widzenia obwodowego (bocznego)

W przypadku nagłej utraty wzroku należy natychmiast skontaktować się z lekarzem. Szybka diagnoza i leczenie mogą pomóc uratować wzrok8. Nagła utrata wzroku nie musi oznaczać całkowitej ślepoty. Może wystąpić w jednym lub obu oczach, a utrata wzroku może być częściowa lub całkowita8.

Rodzaje utraty wzroku

Istnieje kilka głównych typów problemów z widzeniem:910

  • Utrata widzenia centralnego – niemożność wyraźnego widzenia obiektów w centrum pola widzenia
  • Utrata widzenia obwodowego (bocznego) – trudności w dostrzeganiu obiektów na brzegach pola widzenia
  • Ślepota zmierzchowa – problemy z widzeniem przy słabym oświetleniu
  • Niewyraźne lub zamazane widzenie – ogólne pogorszenie ostrości widzenia

W zależności od przyczyny, utrata wzroku może powodować różne zaburzenia widzenia:1112

  • Niewyraźne widzenie
  • Zamazane widzenie
  • Ślepe plamy
  • Podwójne widzenie
  • Zmniejszona zdolność widzenia w nocy
  • Utrata widzenia obwodowego lub centralnego

Progresja utraty wzroku

Utrata wzroku może wystąpić nagle lub rozwijać się stopniowo w czasie13. Nagła utrata wzroku występuje w ciągu kilku sekund lub minut do kilku dni i może być spowodowana różnymi schorzeniami13.

Nagła utrata wzroku

Nagła utrata wzroku oznacza szybką, zazwyczaj niespodziewaną, utratę zdolności dobrego widzenia lub widzenia w ogóle. Może to nastąpić w ciągu sekund, minut, a nawet kilku dni. Może wystąpić w jednym oku lub obu oczach7.

Możesz stracić całe widzenie lub widzenie w jednej części pola widzenia, takiej jak utrata widzenia centralnego7. Nagła utrata wzroku może obejmować nagłą utratę widzenia obwodowego, nagłą utratę widzenia centralnego, a nawet nagłe zamazanie widzenia8.

Częste przyczyny nagłej utraty wzroku obejmują:7

  • Ostrą jaskrę
  • Zapalenie wnętrza gałki ocznej (endophthalmitis)
  • Uraz oka
  • Olbrzymiokomórkowe zapalenie tętnic (zapalenie tętnicy skroniowej)
  • Zapalenie tęczówki (przednie zapalenie błony naczyniowej)
  • Migrenę oczną
  • Zapalenie nerwu wzrokowego
  • Niedrożność tętnicy lub żyły siatkówki
  • Odwarstwienie siatkówki
  • Zakażenie siatkówki
  • Udar mózgu lub przemijający atak niedokrwienny
  • Krwotok do ciała szklistego
  • Zwyrodnienie plamki żółtej związane z wiekiem

Stopniowa utrata wzroku

Utrata wzroku nie zawsze jest nagła. Czasami może rozwijać się przez długi okres13. Postępująca utrata wzroku może być trudniejsza do zauważenia, ponieważ objawy pojawiają się stopniowo.

Główne przyczyny stopniowej utraty wzroku to:14

  • Zaćma (94 miliony przypadków na świecie)
  • Wady refrakcji (88,4 miliona)
  • Zwyrodnienie plamki żółtej związane z wiekiem (8 milionów)
  • Jaskra (7,7 miliona)
  • Retinopatia cukrzycowa (3,9 miliona)

Zwyrodnienie plamki żółtej związane z wiekiem (AMD) jest główną przyczyną utraty wzroku u osób powyżej 50 roku życia13. Powoduje ono uszkodzenie centralnego widzenia15. We wczesnych stadiach AMD objawy mogą być niezauważalne16. Gdy choroba postępuje, osoby z AMD mogą doświadczać:16

  • Słabego widzenia w nocy
  • Niewyraźnego widzenia
  • Zmian w widzeniu kolorów
  • Ciemnych plam w centrum widzenia
  • Postrzegania prostych linii jako faliste lub zakrzywione

Jaskra jest grupą chorób, które mogą uszkodzić nerw wzrokowy oka i spowodować utratę wzroku oraz ślepotę15. Jaskra otwartego kąta to schorzenie przewlekłe, które postępuje powoli przez długi czas bez zauważenia utraty wzroku przez osobę, aż choroba stanie się bardzo zaawansowana17.

Objawy jaskry mogą rozwijać się tak stopniowo, że osoba może nie wiedzieć, że ma tę chorobę, dopóki nie przejdzie badania oka13. Bez leczenia jaskra może ostatecznie spowodować ślepotę, zaczynając od widzenia obwodowego13.

Retinopatia cukrzycowa i utrata wzroku

Retinopatia cukrzycowa to schorzenie powodujące utratę wzroku i ślepotę u osób z cukrzycą13. Jest to wiodąca przyczyna ślepoty u dorosłych Amerykanów15. Cukrzyca może uszkodzić małe naczynia krwionośne z tyłu oczu, prowadząc do utraty wzroku18.

We wczesnych stadiach objawy nie zawsze są zauważalne1317. Gdy retinopatia cukrzycowa postępuje, mogą wystąpić następujące objawy:18

  • Niewyraźne widzenie
  • Plamy lub ciemne kształty w polu widzenia
  • Problemy z widzeniem kolorów
  • Ciemne lub puste obszary w polu widzenia
  • Utrata wzroku

Leczenie retinopatii cukrzycowej może naprawić uszkodzenia oka, a nawet zapobiec ślepocie u większości osób18. Cukrzyca może również powodować jaskrę neowaskularną. Dzieje się tak czasami w przypadku retinopatii cukrzycowej, gdy nowe i nieprawidłowe naczynia krwionośne rosną na tęczówce (kolorowej części oka)18.

Inne przyczyny utraty wzroku

Oprócz głównych przyczyn wymienionych powyżej, utrata wzroku może być spowodowana wieloma innymi czynnikami:

Retinitis pigmentosa

Retinitis pigmentosa odnosi się do grupy schorzeń, które wpływają na siatkówkę, część oka, która posiada specjalne komórki reagujące na światło. W miarę postępu choroby komórki siatkówki ulegają uszkodzeniu. Prowadzi to najpierw do problemów z widzeniem w nocy, a następnie do utraty widzenia obwodowego1.

Jest to bezbolesna choroba, która może powodować degenerację siatkówki, prowadząc do ślepoty w obu oczach19. Oko jest najpierw dotknięte utratą widzenia w nocy, wraz z widzeniem obwodowym, które może stopniowo się pogarszać20.

Odwarstwienie siatkówki

Odwarstwienie siatkówki to sytuacja nagła, w której cienka warstwa tkanki (siatkówka) z tyłu oka odkleja się od swojej normalnej pozycji, powodując tymczasową utratę wzroku w jednym lub obu oczach21.

Odwarstwienie siatkówki może spowodować całkowitą utratę wzroku w dotkniętym oku lub może powodować tylko częściową utratę wzroku, sprawiając wrażenie, jakby kurtyna blokowała część widzenia8. Jeśli siatkówka nie zostanie naprawiona chirurgicznie, możesz na stałe utracić wzrok w tym oku22.

Zaćma

Zaćma to zmętnienie soczewki oka20. Z czasem wzrok staje się coraz gorszy. Zaćma zmętnia soczewkę, wpływając na widzenie centralne, a następnie na widzenie obwodowe22.

Osoby z zaćmą mogą z czasem doświadczać:16

  • Niewyraźnego lub zamglonego widzenia
  • Wyblakłego widzenia kolorów
  • Słabego widzenia w nocy
  • Wrażliwości na światło, szczególnie światło słoneczne lub reflektory podczas jazdy
  • Aureoli wokół świateł
  • Podwójnego widzenia

Migrena i utrata wzroku

Wiele osób cierpiących na migrenę doświadcza objawów wzrokowych znanych jako aura migrenowa13. Około 25-30% osób z migreną ma objawy aury wzrokowej. Dla niektórych polega to na widzeniu zygzakowatych linii, iskierek lub plam. Dla innych obejmuje widzenie tunelowe, całkowitą utratę wzroku lub utratę wzroku po lewej lub prawej stronie13.

Migrena siatkówkowa dotyka tylko jednego oka. Ten rzadki stan powoduje częściową lub całkowitą ślepotę przez krótki okres, zwykle 10-30 minut23. Zamiast stopniowej progresji, objawy wzrokowe podczas udaru pojawiają się nagle24.

Zapalenie nerwu wzrokowego

Zapalenie nerwu wzrokowego to stan zapalny nerwu wzrokowego powodujący niewyraźne, szare, przyciemnione i tunelowe widzenie21. Jeśli nerw wzrokowy stanie się zapalony, powoduje to ból i nagłą utratę wzroku22.

Zapalenie nerwu wzrokowego jest spowodowane stanem zapalnym nerwu wzrokowego (nerwu widzenia). Zwykle występuje w jednym oku i może powodować ból podczas ruchu oka, niewyraźne widzenie, przyciemnione widzenie lub utratę widzenia kolorów25.

Wpływ utraty wzroku na jakość życia

Utrata wzroku ma znaczący wpływ na życie osób, które jej doświadczają, a także na ich rodziny, przyjaciół i społeczeństwo26. Konsekwencje zdrowotne związane z utratą wzroku wykraczają daleko poza oko i układ wzrokowy26.

Utrata wzroku może wpływać na jakość życia, niezależność i mobilność, a także została powiązana z upadkami, urazami i pogorszeniem stanu w zakresie zdrowia psychicznego, funkcji poznawczych, funkcji społecznych, zatrudnienia i osiągnięć edukacyjnych26.

Badania wykazały, że jakość życia związana ze zdrowiem zaczyna powoli spadać wraz z początkiem utraty wzroku, a następnie zmniejsza się bardziej gwałtownie w miarę zwiększania się ubytków pola widzenia27.

Wpływ na codzienne funkcjonowanie

Utrata wzroku utrudnia wykonywanie podstawowych czynności samoobsługowych, takich jak jedzenie i ubieranie się, a także instrumentalnych czynności życia codziennego, takich jak zakupy, zarządzanie finansami, zarządzanie lekami i prowadzenie samochodu28.

Większość badań wykazała, że utrata wzroku ma większy wpływ na zależność w instrumentalnych czynnościach życia codziennego niż w podstawowych czynnościach samoobsługowych28. W szczególności utrata widzenia z bliska wpływa na zdolność wykonywania różnych zadań związanych z czytaniem28.

Wpływ na zdrowie psychiczne

W porównaniu z osobami o normalnym wzroku, osoby z upośledzeniem wzroku są bardziej narażone na depresję, lęk i inne problemy psychologiczne29.

Utrata wzroku u osób starszych wiąże się ze zwiększonym ryzykiem upadków, utratą niezależności, depresją i zwiększoną ogólną śmiertelnością30.

Badanie wykorzystujące dane z Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) z 22 stanów wykazało, że odsetek osób zgłaszających niezadowolenie z życia, zgłaszanych jako zły lub bardzo zły stan zdrowia, dni złego zdrowia fizycznego i psychicznego oraz dni ograniczonej aktywności wzrastał wraz z nasileniem samo-zgłaszanego upośledzenia wzroku27.

Leczenie i rehabilitacja

Rodzaj dostępnego leczenia zależy od stanu pacjenta. Lekarze mogą leczyć niektóre formy ślepoty za pomocą leków lub okularów, ale nie mogą leczyć innych typów, takich jak te, w których oczy są brakujące lub całkowicie uszkodzone. W takich przypadkach lekarz może zalecić rehabilitację wzrokową1.

Lekarz przeprowadzi pełne badanie oka. Leczenie będzie zależeć od przyczyny utraty wzroku2. W przypadku długotrwałej utraty wzroku, warto skonsultować się ze specjalistą od słabego widzenia, który może pomóc nauczyć się dbać o siebie i żyć pełnią życia2.

Rehabilitacja wzroku jest bardzo skuteczna w poprawie funkcjonowania osób z nieodwracalną utratą wzroku, która może być spowodowana chorobami oczu, takimi jak retinopatia cukrzycowa, jaskra, konsekwencje urazu i zwyrodnienie plamki żółtej związane z wiekiem14.

Zapobieganie utracie wzroku

Wiele rodzajów utraty wzroku można zapobiec dzięki wczesnej diagnozie i szybkiemu leczeniu13. Często nie ma żadnych oznak ostrzegawczych ani objawów chorób oczu. Wczesna diagnoza i leczenie problemów z oczami to najlepszy sposób na zachowanie zdrowego wzroku przez całe życie, a w wielu przypadkach ślepotę i utratę wzroku można zapobiec31.

Możesz chronić swój wzrok i zmniejszyć ryzyko utraty wzroku, wykonując następujące kroki:18

  • Poddaj się badaniu oka z rozszerzeniem źrenicy co najmniej raz w roku, aby twój okulista mógł wcześnie wykryć wszelkie problemy
  • Kontroluj poziom cukru we krwi. Z czasem wysoki poziom cukru we krwi uszkadza naczynia krwionośne w oczach

Jeśli zauważysz, że tracisz wzrok, umów się na wizytę u lekarza w celu zbadania13. Jeśli doświadczasz nagłej utraty wzroku lub masz ból oka, niezwłocznie zgłoś się po pomoc medyczną1.

Objawy towarzyszące utracie wzroku

Oprócz bezpośrednich objawów utraty wzroku, mogą występować powiązane symptomy w zależności od podstawowej przyczyny, w tym:32

  • Dyskomfort w oczach
  • Świadomość oczu
  • Uczucie ciała obcego
  • Ból oczu lub wydzielina z oczu

Niektóre schorzenia mogą powodować dodatkowe objawy towarzyszące utracie wzroku:33

  • Problemy z pamięcią
  • Zaburzenia mowy
  • Trudności z rozpoznawaniem obiektów i twarzy

W zależności od przyczyny ślepoty korowej i miejsca uszkodzenia mózgu, możesz doświadczyć dodatkowych objawów. Na przykład, niektóre osoby doświadczają objawów wpływających na pamięć, język i rozpoznawanie33.

Przypadki szczególne: ślepota korowa

Ślepota korowa to całkowita lub częściowa utrata wzroku w normalnie wyglądającym oku spowodowana uszkodzeniem kory potylicznej mózgu34.

Najczęstsze objawy nabytej i przemijającej ślepoty korowej obejmują całkowitą utratę wrażeń wzrokowych i widzenia34. Pacjenci ze ślepotą korową nie będą w stanie w ogóle zidentyfikować przedmiotu, o który są pytani, lub nie będą w stanie podać żadnych szczegółów poza kolorem lub być może ogólnym kształtem34.

Rokowanie pacjenta z nabytą ślepotą korową zależy w dużej mierze od pierwotnej przyczyny ślepoty34. U pacjentów z nabytą ślepotą korową, trwała całkowita utrata wzroku jest rzadka34. Bardziej prawdopodobnym wynikiem jest rozwój ślepoty korowej w łagodniejsze upośledzenie wzroku korowego34.

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  1. 09.04.2026
  2. www.leksykon.com.pl

Materiały źródłowe

  • #1 Blindness (Vision Impairment): Types, Causes and Treatment
    https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/24446-blindness
    Blindness is the inability to see or a lack of vision. In the most severe cases, there’s an inability to see even light. It also means that you can’t correct your vision with eyeglasses, contact lenses, eye drops or other medical therapy, or surgery. Sudden vision loss is an emergency. It’s important to seek immediate medical help. […] With complete blindness there is a lack of vision and the inability of the eye to detect light. […] Symptoms that you may have while vision loss develops include: Blurry vision. Eye pain. Floaters and flashers. Sensitivity to light (photophobia). Sudden loss of vision, or the sudden appearance of black spots in your vision. […] Many non-infectious diseases can cause blindness, but some in only the most severe stages of the disease. These include: Retinitis pigmentosa. This term refers to a group of conditions that affect your retina, the part of your eye that has special cells that react to light. As the condition progresses, the retinal cells break down. This leads first to problems seeing at night and then subsequent loss of your peripheral vision.
  • #1 Blindness (Vision Impairment): Types, Causes and Treatment
    https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/24446-blindness
    Diabetes-related retinopathy. This condition may happen when you have diabetes and the blood vessels in the eye are damaged. The vision loss may be mild at first, but with progression or lack of treatment, blindness can occur. […] The type of treatment available depends on your condition. Providers can treat some forms of blindness with medications or glasses but can’t treat other types, such as the ones where your eyes are missing or completely damaged. In these cases, your provider may recommend visual rehabilitation. […] If you’re completely or partially blind, there are options. It may help to learn as much as you can about your condition. […] Get immediate medical help if you: Lose vision suddenly. Have pain in your eye. Have some type of accident that affects your vision. Have flashes or new floaters in your vision.
  • #2 Blindness and vision loss: MedlinePlus Medical EncyclopediaLock
    https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/003040.htm
    Blindness is a lack of vision. It may also refer to a loss of vision that cannot be corrected with glasses or contact lenses. […] Vision loss refers to the partial or complete loss of vision. This vision loss may happen suddenly or over a period of time. […] Some types of vision loss never lead to complete blindness. […] Sudden vision loss is always an emergency, even if you have not completely lost vision. You should never ignore vision loss, thinking it will get better. […] Most serious forms of vision loss are painless, and the absence of pain in no way diminishes the urgent need to get medical care. Many forms of vision loss only give you a short amount of time to be successfully treated. […] Your health care provider will do a complete eye exam. The treatment will depend on the cause of the vision loss. […] For long-term vision loss, see a low-vision specialist, who can help you learn to care for yourself and live a full life.
  • #3 Blindness: Symptoms, Causes, Risk Factors & More
    https://www.healthline.com/health/blindness
    Symptoms of partial or total blindness can vary in adults, children, and infants. Regular eye examinations can help diagnose certain eye conditions, including glaucoma, that may lead to blindness early. […] Blindness is the inability to see anything, including light. […] If you’re partially blind, you have limited vision. For example, you may have blurry vision or the inability to distinguish the shapes of objects. Complete blindness means you can’t see at all. […] Legal blindness refers to highly compromised vision. What a person with regular vision can see from 200 feet away, a legally blind person can see from only 20 feet away. […] Seek medical attention right away if you suddenly lose vision. Have someone bring you to the emergency room for treatment. Don’t wait for your vision to return.
  • #4 Blindness: Types, Causes, Diagnosis & Symptoms
    https://www.medicinenet.com/blindness/article.htm
    Blindness is defined as the state of being sightless. A blind individual is unable to see. In a strict sense, the word „blindness” denotes the inability of a person to distinguish darkness from bright light in either eye. The terms blind and blindness have been modified in our society to include a wide range of visual impairments. […] Blindness is frequently used today to describe a severe visual decline in one or both eyes with the maintenance of some residual vision. […] Vision impairment, or low vision, means that even with eyeglasses, contact lenses, medicine, or surgery, someone doesn’t see well. Vision impairment can range from mild to severe. Worldwide, about 300 million-400 million people are visually impaired due to various causes. Of this group, approximately 50 million people are totally blind. Approximately 80% of blindness occurs in people over 50 years of age.
  • #5 Signs of Eye Disease and Vision Problems in Adults – Prevent Blindness
    https://preventblindness.org/signs-of-eye-problems-in-adults/
    You may notice symptoms of an eye disease or vision problem, but even if you haven’t noticed any change, Prevent Blindness recommends regular eye exams. […] Early detection and treatment can be the key to preventing vision loss. […] If you are having trouble seeing clearly or have noticed a change in your vision, call your eye doctor to schedule an appointment. […] Any changes in the appearance of your eyes or vision should be investigated further. […] Some examples include: Unusual trouble adjusting to dark rooms, Difficulty focusing on near or distant objects, Squinting or blinking due to unusual sensitivity to light or glare, Change in color of iris, Red-rimmed, encrusted or swollen lids, Recurrent pain in or around eyes, Double vision, Dark spot at the center of viewing, Lines and edges appear distorted or wavy, Excess tearing or watery eyes, Dry eyes with itching or burning, Seeing spots, ghost-like images.
  • #6 Signs of Eye Disease and Vision Problems in Adults – Prevent Blindness
    https://preventblindness.org/signs-of-eye-problems-in-adults/
    The following may be indications of potentially serious problems that might require emergency medical attention: Sudden loss of vision in one eye, Sudden hazy or blurred vision, Flashes of light or black spots, Halos or rainbows around light, Curtain-like blotting out of vision, Loss of peripheral (side) vision.
  • #7 Sudden Vision Loss: Common Causes & Treatments
    https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/24803-sudden-vision-loss
    Sudden vision loss is a medical emergency. Call 911 or go to an emergency room immediately. […] You need fast diagnosis and treatment to have the best chance of getting your vision back. […] A healthcare provider should always evaluate and treat a sudden loss of vision. If you lose vision suddenly, go to the emergency room immediately.
  • #7 Sudden Vision Loss: Common Causes & Treatments
    https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/24803-sudden-vision-loss
    Sudden vision loss is a medical emergency. Sudden vision loss means a swift, usually unexpected, loss of the ability to see well or to see at all. It can happen in seconds, minutes or even over a few days. It can happen in one eye or both eyes. You can lose all vision or vision in one part of your visual field, such as a loss of central vision. […] Vision loss can happen because of problems at any point in the visual process. The process involves your eye sending signals to your brain to create images. Issues with your eyes, nerves and brain can all result in sudden vision loss. […] Common causes of a sudden loss of vision include: Acute glaucoma. Endophthalmitis, an inflammation of the inside of your eye usually caused by infection. Eye injury. Giant cell arteritis, also called temporal arteritis. Iritis, also called anterior uveitis. Ocular migraine. Optic neuritis. Retinal artery occlusion or retinal vein occlusion, which refers to a blockage in the blood flow to or from your retina. Retinal detachment. Infection of your retina. Stroke or transient ischemic attack. Vitreous hemorrhage (blood leaking into or near the vitreous humor). Age-related macular degeneration.
  • #8 Sudden blindness can be a symptom of a serious medical condition.
    https://www.exetereye.co.uk/eye-symptoms/vision-problems/sudden-blindness/
    Sudden loss of sight can be a symptom of a serious medical condition and must be treated as quickly as possible. […] If you experience sudden blindness you need to seek medical attention as quickly as possible. Early diagnosis and treatment could help save your sight. […] A sudden loss of vision does not necessarily mean total blindness. Sudden blindness can occur in one eye or both eyes, and the loss of sight can be partial or total. […] With total vision loss, the sight in the affected eye (or eyes) is lost completely so that nothing can be seen with the affected eye. With partial vision loss, some sight may remain in the affected eye. […] Sudden vision loss can include a sudden loss of peripheral vision, sudden loss of central vision, or even a sudden blurring of your vision. The sudden appearance of spots within your field of vision could also be a symptom of a more serious condition.
  • #8 Sudden blindness can be a symptom of a serious medical condition.
    https://www.exetereye.co.uk/eye-symptoms/vision-problems/sudden-blindness/
    Sudden blindness may only last a short time such as a few seconds or hours; however, it could potentially be permanent, especially if not treated quickly. […] Sudden loss of vision can occur for a number of reasons. Many underlying problems are very serious and could potentially be sight-threatening or even life-threatening. It is therefore important to seek medical help as soon as possible if you experience any sudden loss of sight. […] A detached retina can cause a total loss of vision in the affected eye, or it may only result in partial vision loss, making it seem as if a curtain is blocking part of your vision. […] When a macular hole occurs it results in a loss of your central vision, while your peripheral or side vision remains. […] If this occurs it can block the light which enters the eye causing sudden blurred vision, or the sudden appearance of spots within your vision.
  • #9 Stroke-related eye conditions | RNIB
    https://www.rnib.org.uk/your-eyes/eye-conditions-az/stroke-related-eye-conditions/
    Vision problems following a stroke are quite common. […] The main types of eye problems that can occur after a stroke include visual field loss, eye movement problems and visual processing problems. […] Stroke can affect the visual pathways of your eye and this can impact your vision in different ways including: visual field loss, blurry vision, double vision, reading difficulty, moving images, other problems such as dry eye and sensitivity to light. […] When stroke affects the areas of your brain that process information you see, it can cause problems such as visual neglect, judging depth and movement, recognising objects and people, visual hallucinations. […] Some people may see some improvement in their vision over a period of months following a stroke. […] Unfortunately for many people, especially those with visual field loss, sight loss may be permanent.
  • #10 Blindness | Low Vision | MedlinePlus
    https://medlineplus.gov/visionimpairmentandblindness.html
    Vision impairment is the loss of vision. It includes blindness, which means that you have lost all or most of your sight. It also includes low vision, which means you have some vision, but the vision loss makes it hard to do everyday activities. You may have trouble reading, shopping, cooking, writing, and watching TV. Low vision can’t be fixed with glasses, contact lenses, medicine, or surgery. […] Early warning signs of a vision problem can include not being able to see well enough to: Do everyday tasks like reading and driving, Recognize people’s faces, Tell the difference between colors, See the television or computer screen clearly. […] Common types of low vision include: Central vision loss (not being able to see things in the center of your vision), Peripheral (side) vision loss (not being able to see things out of the corners of your eyes), Night blindness (not being able to see in low light), Blurry or hazy vision.
  • #11 Vision Loss | eSight Eyewear
    https://www.esighteyewear.com/vision-loss/
    Vision loss can highly interfere with an individuals ability to perform activities of daily living (ADLs) these include things like reading, recognizing faces, and driving. […] Vision loss is understood as the sudden or gradual decline in the ability to see, and is also known as vision impairment. Most people in their life will experience some form of vision loss that can lead to minimal, partial, or complete loss of vision. This can be experienced through blurred vision, cloudy vision, blind spots, double vision, reduced night vision, or even loss of peripheral or central vision. […] The first signs and symptoms of vision loss usually involve subtle changes to the visual field, such as blurry vision. These symptoms may indicate underlying eye conditions or eye diseases. […] Central vision loss denotes a loss of detailed vision when looking straight ahead. Many people with central vision loss feel as though they are missing details of their environment, seeing blurry spots in the center of their visual field, or having difficulty discerning distances.
  • #12 Vision Loss | eSight Eyewear
    https://www.esighteyewear.com/vision-loss/
    Those blurry spots can turn dark or black as the eye damage progresses; this is often due to the macula beginning to deteriorate, which can be caused by diseases like Macular Degeneration and Diabetic Retinopathy. […] Blurred vision describes the sharpness of ones eyesight. When vision becomes blurry, people usually begin to squint and rub their eyes more frequently, or move closer to objects to view them better. […] Sudden vision loss can occur within just a few seconds to over a period of a few days. Vision loss may be blurry, cloudy, or complete and may occur in either or both eyes. […] Peripheral vision loss is sometimes referred to as tunnel vision because it affects the wide-angle field of view. […] Peripheral vision loss is often associated with Glaucoma, Scotoma, Retinitis Pigmentosa, or even a stroke. […] Double vision, also known as Diplopia, describes the appearance of multiple images of a singular object in your vision. […] There are multiple causes of vision loss and ranging levels of severity. Often, vision loss presents alongside additional symptoms.
  • #13 Vision loss: Symptoms, causes, and treatments
    https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/vision-loss
    Vision loss refers to either complete or partial loss of vision. Depending on the cause, vision loss may occur suddenly or gradually and in one or both eyes. Some types of vision loss are temporary or reversible. […] Vision problems are a common disability in people of all ages. An estimated 12 million people age 40 or older in the United States have some form of visual impairment, including over 1 million people who are blind. […] There are many possible causes of partial or complete vision loss, including medical conditions, injuries, migraine, and aging. […] Sudden vision loss occurs over a period of a few seconds or minutes to a few days and can be caused by a variety of conditions. […] Many people who have migraine experience visual symptoms known as migraine aura. […] Around 25 to 30% of people with migraine have visual aura symptoms. For some, this involves seeing zig-zag lines, sparkles, or spots. For others, it involves tunnel vision, complete vision loss, or vision loss to the left or right side.
  • #13 Vision loss: Symptoms, causes, and treatments
    https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/vision-loss
    Keratitis can be caused by an infection or injury to the eye. Symptoms include blurred vision, pain, sensitivity to light or vision loss. […] Conjunctivitis can cause vision loss. […] If a person stares at a screen for too long they may begin to lose vision and perceive things they are looking at are blurry. […] Injury to the eye can also cause sudden vision loss. […] Vision loss is not always sudden. Sometimes it can happen over a long period of time. […] Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is an eye disease that can impact a person’s central vision. […] AMD is a leading cause of vision loss for people age 50 and older. […] The symptoms of glaucoma can happen so gradually that a person may not know they have it until they have an eye examination. […] Without treatment, glaucoma can eventually cause blindness, beginning with the peripheral vision.
  • #13 Vision loss: Symptoms, causes, and treatments
    https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/vision-loss
    Diabetic retinopathy is a condition that causes vision loss and blindness in people with diabetes. […] In the early stages, symptoms are not always noticeable. […] Many types of visual impairment are preventable with early diagnosis and quick treatment. […] If a person notices that they are losing vision they should book an appointment with their healthcare provider to get it checked out. […] Vision loss can have many causes. Temporary causes include migraine and conjunctivitis. Medical conditions, such as diabetic retinopathy and AMD, can lead to permanent vision loss. […] There are often no warning signs or symptoms of eye disease. Early diagnosis and treatment of eye problems are the best ways to keep the eyes healthy, and it is important to seek medical attention if vision loss occurs.
  • #14
    https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/blindness-and-visual-impairment
    Uncorrected refractive error remains a leading cause of vision impairment in all countries amongst children and adult populations. […] Among this 1 billion people, the main conditions causing distance vision impairment or blindness are cataract (94 million), refractive error (88.4 million), age-related macular degeneration (8 million), glaucoma (7.7 million), diabetic retinopathy (3.9 million). […] Vision impairment severely impacts quality of life among adult populations. […] Adults with vision impairment can experience lower rates of employment and higher rates of depression and anxiety. […] In the case of older adults, vision impairment can contribute to social isolation, difficulty walking, a higher risk of falls and fractures, and a greater likelihood of early entry into nursing or care homes. […] Vision rehabilitation is very effective in improving functioning for people with an irreversible vision loss that can be caused by eye conditions such as diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma, consequences of trauma, and age-related macular degeneration.
  • #15 About Common Eye Disorders and Diseases | Vision and Eye Health | CDC
    https://www.cdc.gov/vision-health/about-eye-disorders/index.html
    The leading causes of blindness and low vision in the United States are primarily age-related eye diseases. […] Diabetic retinopathy is the leading cause of blindness in American adults. […] Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) results in damaged sharp and central vision. […] AMD is the leading cause of permanent impairment of reading and fine or close-up vision among people aged 65 years and older. […] Cataract is the leading cause of blindness worldwide and the leading cause of vision loss in the United States. […] Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is the leading cause of blindness in American adults. […] Glaucoma is a group of diseases that can damage the eye’s optic nerve and result in vision loss and blindness. […] Amblyopia, also referred to as „lazy eye,” is the most common cause of vision impairment in children. […] It’s the most common cause of permanent one-eye vision impairment among children and young and middle-aged adults.
  • #16 Blindness Warning Signs: What Causes Blindness in Children and Adults | Ability Central
    https://abilitycentral.org/article/blindness-warning-signs-what-causes-blindness-children-and-adults
    In its early stages, AMD symptoms usually go unnoticed. As macular degeneration progresses, however, people with AMD might experience: Poor night vision, Blurry vision, Changes to color vision, Dark spots in the center of their vision, Seeing straight lines as wavy or curved. […] Over time, people with cataracts may experience: Cloudy or blurry vision, Faded color vision, Poor night vision, Light sensitivity, especially sunlight or headlights while driving, Halos around lights, Double vision. […] Warning signs of diabetic retinopathy include: Streaks or small dark spots in vision, Blurry, double, or distorted vision, Difficulty telling the difference between colors, Poor night vision. […] Glaucoma refers to fluid buildup in the eye that eventually damages the optic nerve, the nerve that sends visual signals to the brain.
  • #17 Experiencing Vision Loss? Here Are the 4 Main Causes of Blindness | Ochsner Health
    https://blog.ochsner.org/articles/experiencing-vision-loss-here-are-the-4-main-causes-of-blindness
    More than 4.2 million Americans aged 40-years and older are either legally blind or experience impaired vision. […] Glaucoma is a group of diseases that can damage the eyes optic nerve and result in vision loss and blindness. […] Open-angle glaucoma is a chronic condition that progresses slowly over a long period of time without the person noticing vision loss until the disease is very advanced. […] Most cases of glaucoma can be controlled, and vision loss slowed by a timely diagnosis and treatment. However, any vision lost to glaucoma cannot be restored. […] You might not have any symptoms at first, but as cataracts grow, they can cause damage in your vision. […] While this disease doesnt cause complete blindness, it does make it difficult to see faces, read, drive or do close-up activities such as cooking.
  • #17 Experiencing Vision Loss? Here Are the 4 Main Causes of Blindness | Ochsner Health
    https://blog.ochsner.org/articles/experiencing-vision-loss-here-are-the-4-main-causes-of-blindness
    The symptoms of age-related macular degeneration depend on the stage. […] Diabetic retinopathy is a common complication of diabetes, and is the leading cause of blindness in American adults. […] The early stages of diabetic retinopathy usually dont have any symptoms. […] Early diagnosis and timely treatment can reduce the risk of vision loss.
  • #18 Vision Loss and Diabetes | Diabetes | CDC
    https://www.cdc.gov/diabetes/diabetes-complications/diabetes-and-vision-loss.html
    Diabetes can damage your eyes over time and cause vision loss or blindness. […] Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is the leading cause of blindness in working-age adults. […] Diabetes can damage the small blood vessels at the back of the eyes, leading to vision loss. […] Symptoms can include: Blurry vision. Spots or dark shapes in your vision. Trouble seeing colors. Dark or empty areas in your vision. Vision loss. […] Treating DR can repair damage to the eye and even prevent blindness in most people. […] Diabetes can also cause neovascular glaucoma. This happens sometimes with diabetic retinopathy when new and abnormal blood vessels grow on the iris (colored part of the eye). […] You can protect your vision and lower your chance for vision loss with these steps: Get a dilated eye exam at least once a year so your eye doctor can spot any problems early. Manage your blood sugar levels. Over time, high blood sugar damages blood vessels in your eyes.
  • #19 Dog Vision Problems: Blindness Symptoms & How To Manage | Tucson | Veterinary Specialty Center of Tucson
    https://www.vscot.com/site/blog/2020/09/10/dog-vision-problems-blindness-symptoms-manage
    Just like people, dogs can potentially lose their vision and struggle with the challenges of going blind, whether due to aging or other conditions. Here are a few symptoms that suggest your dog may be losing their vision: […] Aging, injury, hereditary factors or disease can all contribute to your dog’s worsening vision. Vision loss ranging from minor issues to full blindness can sometimes be part of the natural aging process. […] While many conditions can cause vision loss, some more common reasons include: […] Left untreated, glaucoma may lead to complete or partial blindness. […] An operation may prevent blindness, though early intervention is critical. […] In more than 75% of dogs with diabetes, cataracts will develop, which can lead to partial or full blindness. […] Though it’s a painless condition, Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRFA) can cause the retina to deteriorate, leading to blindness in both eyes.
  • #20 Vision Loss Symptoms & Conditions – Braille Institute
    https://www.brailleinstitute.org/life-with-vision-loss/conditions-and-symptoms/
    The first sign of macular degeneration is reduced sharpness in the center of your vision. […] Rods, which are involved in the perception of low light, are typically the first cells affected by the disease, so night vision is affected first, along with peripheral vision, which may become increasingly splotchy. […] Glaucoma causes loss of peripheral vision, first noticeable in dark patches around the edges of the eyes.
  • #20 Vision Loss Symptoms & Conditions – Braille Institute
    https://www.brailleinstitute.org/life-with-vision-loss/conditions-and-symptoms/
    Vision loss symptoms are mostly found in those older than 65, but many younger people also suffer from various forms of visual impairment. […] Depending on the severity of the disease, sight can remain near normal or be lost entirely. […] Vision loss symptoms include blurred, distorted vision, often with large blank spots in the central sight area. […] The eye disease causes a progressive decrease in peripheral or side vision and is accompanied by abnormal pigment deposits. […] If left untreated, vision around the edge of the eye becomes increasingly restricted, narrowing the field of vision causing “tunnel vision” similar to that of retinitis pigmentosa. […] Cataracts cause a clouding of the lens of the eye. […] Blurred or cloudy vision is the most common symptom of cataracts.
  • #21 Tunnel Vision (Peripheral Vision Loss): Symptoms, Causes, Treatments | Kraff Eye Institute
    https://kraffeye.com/blog/tunnel-vision-peripheral-vision-loss-symptoms-causes-treatments
    Retinitis pigmentosa (RP) is a group of genetic disorders that affect the retinas ability to respond to light, which may result in lost peripheral vision in one or both eyes. […] Optic neuritis is inflammation of the optic nerve that causes blurred, gray, dim, and tunnel vision eyesight. […] Retinal detachment describes an emergency situation in which a thin layer of tissue (the retina) at the back of the eye pulls away from its normal position causing temporary loss of vision in one or both eyes. […] Another cause of peripheral vision loss in one eye or both is diabetic retinopathy. […] If tunnel vision occurs due to a migraine, your vision loss will likely be temporary. […] However, some conditions, such as a stroke, may lead to permanent vision loss. […] The tunnel vision effect or loss of side vision takes some time to get used to and can affect a persons daily life and mental health, depending on the conditions severity.
  • #22 Vision Loss Causes and Symptoms | Florida Eye
    https://floridaeye.org/eye-health/vision-loss-causes-and-symptoms/
    Over time, vision gets progressively worse. Cataracts cloud the lens, affecting the central vision and then the peripheral vision. […] Diabetic retinopathy can weaken blood vessels in the retina, which rupture and bleed within the eye. You would experience blurred vision and possibly a reddish tint. […] If the retina isnt repaired surgically, you could lose your vision permanently in that eye. Your vision suddenly darkens, but theres no pain. This is an emergency. […] The primary cause of blindness in those over 55 is macular degeneration. The macula, the part of the retina responsible for the good vision we depend on for activities such as reading and driving, begins to deteriorate. The vision in the center of the eye is lost although people usually still have peripheral vision. […] Glaucoma usually develops with no symptoms until vision is affected.
  • #22 Vision Loss Causes and Symptoms | Florida Eye
    https://floridaeye.org/eye-health/vision-loss-causes-and-symptoms/
    If the optic nerve becomes inflamed, it causes pain and sudden vision loss. […] Blindness caused by a trauma or eye injury occurs far less often than blindness caused by eye diseases. […] Its a rare side effect, but certain drugs, such as Viagra, Cialis and Levitra, can cause sudden vision loss.
  • #23 Causes of Temporary Blindness and Short-Term Vision Loss
    https://www.webmd.com/eye-health/temporary-blindness-short-term-vision-loss
    If you have a sudden total, black-out, or near-total vision loss, its an emergency. […] Clots can cause temporary blindness in one eye, usually lasting 20 to 30 minutes. […] Any temporary or partial vision loss needs to be checked out immediately in the emergency room. […] Migraines are, by far, the most common cause of short-term, partial vision loss. […] A retinal migraine affects only one eye. This rare condition causes partial or total blindness for a short period, usually 10 to 30 minutes. […] Closed-angle glaucoma can cause discomfort, nausea, short-term blurred vision, halos, or blindness in one eye. […] Giant cell arteritis also triggers vision loss, usually in one eye. Without treatment, it can result in permanent blindness in a week or two. […] Retinal vein occlusion is when a vein in the retina gets blocked, often due to a blood clot. […] Papilledema can lead to vision changes, such as double vision, blurriness, and short-term blindness. […] Uhthoff phenomenon can make you lose your vision in one or both eyes.
  • #24 When temporary vision loss in one eye isn’t a sign of stroke – Harvard Health
    https://www.health.harvard.edu/diseases-and-conditions/when-temporary-vision-loss-in-one-eye-isnt-a-sign-of-stroke
    „Instead of a gradual progression, visual symptoms during a stroke happen all of a sudden,” she says. „And often those symptoms include a complete loss of vision. It’s like a black curtain suddenly sweeping across your visual field.” […] „Sometimes people describe retinal migraine as a fuzzy line going across their vision, or as pure blindness or blind spots,” Dr. Macone says. „It’s a phenomenon we see much less often than visual aura.” […] „See a doctor if this is happening for the first time or if your vision loss is sudden, and especially if you have other symptoms associated with it,” Dr. Macone says. „If you have abrupt sensory changes, an inability to move your arm or leg, or changes in speech, then it’s absolutely crucial to get evaluated immediately in the emergency room.”
  • #25 Vision Problems & Multiple Sclerosis | National MS SocietyNational Multiple Sclerosis Society LogoNational Multiple Sclerosis Society LogoOpen searchExpand SectionExpand SectionExpand Section
    https://www.nationalmssociety.org/understanding-ms/what-is-ms/ms-symptoms/vision-problems
    Visions disorders are the first sign of multiple sclerosis for many people. The 3 most common disorders are optic neuritis, diplopia (double vision) and nystagmus. While these conditions can be frightening and uncomfortable, the prognosis for recovery is good with treatment. […] Optic neuritis is caused by inflammation of the optic (vision) nerve. It usually occurs in one eye and may cause aching pain with eye movement, blurred vision, dim vision or loss of color vision. For people with optic neuritis, the color red may appear washed out or gray, vision may be lost completely in the affected eye, or a blurred or dim spot (scotoma) may occur in the center of the visual field, with peripheral vision unaffected. It is possible that after experiencing optic neuritis in one eye, you may experience it in the other eye at some time in the future — although this does not always occur. Optic neuritis with a loss of vision can be alarming, but in most cases your vision returns. Residual symptoms are possible, and you may notice dim or blurred vision if you are very fatigued or overheated. Rest and cooling generally help vision return. Treatment for optic neuritis includes high doses of corticosteroids, such as intravenous methylprednisolone or prednisone pills.
  • #26 The Impact of Vision Loss – Making Eye Health a Population Health Imperative – NCBI Bookshelf
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK402367/
    Vision loss has a significant impact on the lives of those who experience it as well as on their families, their friends, and society. […] The health consequences associated with vision loss extend well beyond the eye and visual system. Vision loss can affect one’s quality of life (QOL), independence, and mobility and has been linked to falls, injury, and worsened status in domains spanning mental health, cognition, social function, employment, and educational attainment. […] The economic impact of vision loss is also substantial. […] This chapter explores the impact of chronic vision loss in the United States both in terms of its financial costs and its effects on QOL. […] Vision impairment is associated with a reduced QOL, which is a complex trait that encompasses vision functioning, symptoms, emotional well-being, social relationships, concerns, and convenience as they are affected by vision.
  • #27 The Impact of Vision Loss – Making Eye Health a Population Health Imperative – NCBI Bookshelf
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK402367/
    Numerous studies have shown that vision impairment is often associated with various negative health outcomes and poor QOL. […] A recent study using Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) data from 22 states examined unadjusted health-related QOL among individuals ages 40 to 64 years by visual impairment status and found that the percentage of individuals reporting life dissatisfaction, fair or poor reported health, physical and mental unhealthy days, and days of limited activity increased as the self-reported severity of vision impairment increased. […] A study by Rein and colleagues (2007) found that the QOL begins to slowly decline with the onset of vision loss, and then decreases more precipitously as measures of visual field defects increase. […] Loss of vision affects patients’ ability to work or care for themselves (or others), and it affects numerous casual activities such as reading, socializing, and pursuing hobbies.
  • #28 The Impact of Vision Loss – Making Eye Health a Population Health Imperative – NCBI Bookshelf
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK402367/
    Vision impairment makes it more difficult to perform the basic self-care activities of daily living such as eating and dressing as well as instrumental activities of daily living such as shopping, financial management, medication management, and driving. […] Most studies have found that vision loss has a greater impact on dependency in instrumental activities of daily living than in basic activities of daily living. […] In particular, the loss of near vision affects one’s ability to perform a variety of tasks that involve reading. […] Vision impairment has been shown to be associated with an increased risk of fractures in multiple studies. […] Vision impairment has been shown to be associated with an increased risk of fractures in multiple studies. […] People with vision loss are at higher risk for several types of injury.
  • #29 The Impact of Vision Loss – Making Eye Health a Population Health Imperative – NCBI Bookshelf
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK402367/
    Compared to people with normal vision, those with vision impairment are at a higher risk for depression, anxiety, and other psychological problems. […] Several studies have found that cognitive impairment is more prevalent and progresses more rapidly in older adults with vision impairment than in those without. […] The prevalence of co-existing impairment in vision and hearing, also referred to as dual sensory impairment (DSI), increases markedly with age. […] Vision impairment results in significant expenditures, both direct and indirect, and has the potential to affect almost every aspect of a person’s life. […] Vision loss affects more than one’s ability to see the world clearly. The consequences of vision impairment often negatively impact QOL, including the number of physical and mental unhealthy days and overall dissatisfaction with life. […] Vision loss also amplifies the effects of other chronic conditions and is a chronic condition itself. […] Vision loss can also complicate chronic disease management, including self-care, transportation to and from doctor’s appointments, and the proper administration of medicine.
  • #30 Vision Loss in Older Adults | AAFP
    https://www.aafp.org/pubs/afp/issues/2016/0801/p219.html
    Vision loss in older adults is associated with increased fall risk, loss of independence, depression, and increased all-cause mortality. […] Most cases of vision loss in older adults are due to defined diseases for which there are effective strategies to prevent or delay vision loss and blindness. […] The four major causes of severe vision loss and blindness in older adults are age-related macular degeneration (AMD), ocular complications of diabetes mellitus, glaucoma, and age-related cataracts. […] Once established, vision loss is permanent. […] A number of medicated eye drops lower intraocular pressure and can delay the progression of vision loss. […] Long-term adherence to therapy remains a major problem; continuation rates are typically less than 50% at one year. […] Several large clinical trials have demonstrated that tight glycemic control decreases the risk of progression of diabetic retinopathy. […] Diabetic macular edema causes rapid vision deterioration and can quickly lead to blindness.
  • #31
    https://www.aao.org/eye-health/symptoms/vision-loss-central
    Central vision loss is the loss of detail vision, resulting in having only side vision remaining. […] The symptoms and possible related eye conditions/diseases in this section are for general reference only, and do not contain all visual symptoms or all possible related conditions or diseases. If you have any unusual vision symptoms, speak with your ophthalmologist. […] It’s important to remember that many people do not know they have eye disease because there are often no warning signs or symptoms, or they assume that poor sight is a natural part of growing older. Early detection and treatment of eye problems is the best way to keep your healthy vision throughout your life. In many cases, blindness and vision loss are preventable.
  • #32 Blindness: Types, Causes, Diagnosis & Symptoms
    https://www.medicinenet.com/blindness/article.htm
    All people who are blind or have visual impairment have the common symptom of difficulty seeing. People with similar levels of visual loss may have very different responses to that symptom. […] Associated symptoms of blindness may be present or absent, depending on the underlying cause of the condition, and may include: Discomfort in the eyes, Awareness of the eyes, Foreign body sensation, Pain in the eyes or discharge from the eyes. […] The prognosis for blindness is dependent on its cause. In patients with blindness due to optic nerve damage or a completed stroke, visual acuity can usually not be restored. […] The majority of blindness from diabetic retinopathy is preventable through careful control of blood sugar levels, exercise, avoidance of obesity and smoking, and emphasis on eating foods that do not increase the sugar load (complex, rather than simple carbohydrates).
  • #33 Cortical Blindness: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment
    https://resources.healthgrades.com/right-care/eye-health/cortical-blindness
    Cortical blindness symptoms include partial or complete visual loss affecting both eyes […] dim vision, such as seeing colors as more muted or needing more light to see […] limited peripheral or side vision […] dark or blank areas in your field of vision […] perceiving flickering in areas of impaired vision […] difficulty fixating on or tracking objects with your eyes […] Anton syndrome, which is denying vision loss or acting as if to see despite vision problems. […] Depending on the cause of cortical blindness and where the brain was damaged, you may experience additional symptoms. For example, some people experience symptoms affecting memory, language, and recognition. […] Cortical blindness develops from damage to the occipital lobe or cortex in the brain. The occipital lobe is located at the back of the head and is the primary area in the brain that processes vision.
  • #34 Cortical blindness – Wikipedia
    https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cortical_blindness
    Cortical blindness is the total or partial loss of vision in a normal-appearing eye caused by damage to the brain’s occipital cortex. […] The most common symptoms of acquired and transient cortical blindness include: A complete loss of visual sensation and of vision. […] Patients with cortical blindness will not be able to identify the item being questioned about at all or will not be able to provide any details other than color or perhaps general shape. […] The prognosis of a patient with acquired cortical blindness depends largely on the original cause of the blindness. […] In patients with acquired cortical blindness, a permanent complete loss of vision is rare. […] The development of cortical blindness into the milder cortical visual impairment is a more likely outcome. […] Furthermore, some patients regain vision completely, as is the case with transient cortical blindness associated with eclampsia and the side effects of certain anti-epilepsy drugs.