Is Your Peripheral Vision Declining?
Peripheral vision is the ability to see outside of the direct line of sight in a wide-angled field. You may experience peripheral vision problems despite finding that you have perfectly normal central vision. Peripheral vision loss is commonly referred to as “tunnel vision”, and is similar to being able to see only through a narrow tube.
What Causes Peripheral Vision Loss?
- A peripheral field defect is often the cause of peripheral vision loss and is caused by optic nerve damage. This can be caused by glaucoma, one of the vision impairments due to age.
- Peripheral vision loss can also be caused by occlusions which block normal blood flow to the optic nerve and the eye’s internal structures.
- Any damage to the brain where images are processed may also lead to vision blind spots including peripheral vision. This damage is sometimes caused by accidents or strokes.
Basic Causes Of Peripheral Vision Loss Include:
- Glaucoma
- Detached retina
- Eye strokes or occlusions
- Retinitis pigments
- Papilledema – Compressed optic nerve head
- Brain damage from disease, stroke, or injury
- Optic neuritis – Neurological damage
Symptoms Of Peripheral Vision Loss
Peripheral vision assists in sense of motion and spatial awareness. In addition to an obvious loss of side vision, peripheral vision impairment may result in a difficulty to walk. It can also make it difficult to see in certain light.
If you experience a sudden loss of peripheral vision, it may be caused by a detached retina which is considered a medical emergency. If this is the case, it is vital that you seek medical assistance immediately, as a detached retina can result in permanent vision loss if left untreated.
Treatments For Peripheral Vision Loss
Unfortunately, conventional eyeglasses or contact lenses cannot be used to correct peripheral vision. However, there is a type of lens known as a prism, that has the ability to expand the field of view for some types of peripheral vision loss.
If you have a treatable eye condition that can cause peripheral vision impairment, treatment will be the best form of prevention. Glaucoma, for example, can cause tunnel vision if left untreated. Eye drops and medications are often prescribed for this condition and if taken as intended can prevent the loss of peripheral vision and more serious problems.
What To Do If You Are Experiencing Symptoms Of Peripheral Vision Loss
It can sometimes be difficult to realize that a problem exists based on symptoms alone, so regular eye exams are always essential to eye health. Many eye conditions have a better prognosis if they are diagnosed in the early stages, and check-ups can be particularly helpful in detecting progressive eye conditions.
At Eyelux Optometry, we offer digital retinal imaging and the latest vision technology as part of our high-quality professional eye care service. If you think you have symptoms of loss of peripheral vision or any other eye condition for that matter, it is advised that you seek assistance from an eye specialist. Book in an appointment today with the experts at Eyelux Optometry.
