Experiencing Vision Loss? These are the Most Likely Culprits Submitted by Atlanta Vision Cataract and Laser Center on January 7, 2022
Vision loss can be more than troublesome. You rely on good eyesight in every area of your life, and losing your vision can be a scary experience. There are ways to salvage your sight, and the most crucial step is scheduling a comprehensive eye exam at Atlanta Vision Laser and Cataract Center as soon as possible. Our eye doctors can determine the cause of your vision loss and restore or prevent further damage.
Several eye diseases could be the culprit behind your changing eyesight, and it can depend on which part of your field of vision is affected. These conditions typically impact men and women over 50 but are not considered a normal part of the aging process. One of our ophthalmologists should evaluate your vision changes to diagnose and treat eye diseases early.
Central Vision Loss
The back of your eye is lined with light-sensitive tissue called the retina, and in the center of your retina is the macula. This tiny part of your eye’s anatomy serves a critical role in your sight. The macula is responsible for seeing people and objects directly in front of you, along with fine details and some color vision. Age-related macular degeneration, macular edema, macular hole or pucker and diabetic eye diseases often cause central vision loss.
Peripheral (Side) Vision Loss
You rely on your peripheral vision to see movement and details at the edges of your sight. Side vision loss often happens with glaucoma and retinitis pigmentosa. Glaucoma is nicknamed the “silent thief of sight” because many people don’t realize they have the degenerative eye disease until vision is already affected. Vision loss from glaucoma cannot be reversed, but effective treatments are available to slow or halt its progression. Retinitis pigmentosa is a group of disorders that causes the retinal cells to break down. It is rare and typically genetic, with side vision loss and difficulty driving or seeing at night being the early symptoms.
Changing Contrast Sensitivity and Depth Perception
Several eye diseases, including cataracts, decrease your ability to distinguish between objects of like colors, such as milk poured in a white cup. Seeing facial features is an essential part of contrast sensitivity in your vision as well. Brain damage or vision loss localized to one eye can impact your ability to judge the position of people and objects around you, decreasing your depth perception.
See an Eye Doctor About Your Vision Loss Right Away
Don’t wait to see an ophthalmologist if you notice vision changes or vision loss. Many eye diseases are treatable if they are diagnosed during the early stages. The sooner you visit one of our eye doctors at Atlanta Vision Laser and Cataract Center, the more likely we can save your vision.
Schedule an appointment with Dr. David O’Day or Dr. Leonard Achiron to evaluate your vision loss and screen for eye disease by calling (404) 765-2020.