How blindness and visual impairment happen
 
Most adults don’t know the warning signs or what causes blindness or severe visual impairment. Listed below are some of the major causes:

• Macular degeneration: A medical condition that results in a loss of vision in the center of the visual field because of damage to the retina.

• Cataracts: A clouding that develops in the lens of the eye or in its envelope obstructing the passage of light.

• Glaucoma: A disorder in which the optic nerve suffers damage, permanently damaging vision. It is often, but not always, associated with increased pressure in the fluid in the eye.

• Stroke: A stroke is the rapidly developing loss of brain function(s) due to disturbance in the blood supply to the brain.

• Diabetic Retinopathy: Retinopathy is damage to the retina caused by complications of diabetes.

• Retinitis Pigmentosa (RP): RP is a rare, genetic disorder that breaks down the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye. Early symptoms of RP are night blindness and loss of peripheral vision. Symptoms can appear in childhood and, often, children with RP have difficulty seeing in the dark. Over time, their visual field narrows, resulting in tripping and what looks like clumsiness because they aren’t able to see properly. Also, bright lights are uncomfortable for people with RP, which is known as “photophobia”. The disease usually progresses slowly, however progression can vary from person to person. Some may have very restricted eye sight in early adulthood, whereas others may retain eyesight until their 50s.  Eventually, most people with RP have significant vision loss and/or blindness. To learn more visit RP Part 1, RP Part 2, and RP Part 3.

Call if your vision is changing or your vision is impaired 

Is your vision changing or are you experiencing severe eyesight problems? Or are you blind? Our vision rehabilitation program can help you reach your goals for living as independently as possible. Also, we have the latest technology to help you live a life without any obstacles.



Contact Our Low Vision Services

• Contact our Low Vision Services staff to learn more about how they can help.
• Schedule an appointment at our Low Vision Services, which includes an assessment.
• You will be scheduled at one of our convenient locations.

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