Low vision is a condition where patients experience blurred sight, partial sight, tunnel vision, or even being legally blind. Unlike many other eye impairments, low vision cannot be corrected through glasses or surgery. Even with corrective lenses and medical procedures, low vision cannot be restored to 20/20. While a “cure” is not an option, there are things sufferers can do to help them function in their daily lives. Depending on individual cases, ophthalmologists may take different approaches that are aimed to try to enhance vision as much as possible such as: prescription lenses, therapy or magnification.
Low vision is a condition that can affect people of all ages, but most often strikes elderly individuals. Several different diseases are often to blame for low vision. Glaucoma, cataracts, diabetic retinopathy, and age-related macular degeneration to name the most common.
The effects of low vision are, by definition, irreversible, and therefore the best way to manage low vision is to prevent it from happening. Many common eye diseases, including glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy, can be detected before any considerable damage has taken place. Having a simple and noninvasive test performed early on can prevent a lot of complications in the future. Maintaining regular scheduled visits with your ophthalmologist has the potential to save your vision. Contact Eye Michigan to schedule your appointment today.