Causes of Low Vision
What Causes Low Vision
Low vision or reductions in vision can be caused by various genetic and environmental causes. Some people are born with low or reduced vision, while others can develop low vision due to age-related conditions, disease, stroke or other traumatic causes or injury.
Common Causes of Low Vision
Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)
AMD is a leading cause of vision loss among older adults and accounts for about half of all low vision cases. It occurs when the part of the eye responsible for sharp, straight-on vision – the macula – breaks down and causes a loss of central vision.
Diabetic Retinopathy
Recent studies estimate 9.6 million people in the United States have some form of diabetic retinopathy. It is a major cause of blindness and is directly related to high blood sugar, which damages blood vessels. That damage affects the retina and can even lead to its detachment.
Glaucoma
Glaucoma is the second leading cause of blindness. With glaucoma, portions of vision are lost over time, usually with no warning signs or symptoms prior to vision deterioration. For many, a decrease in peripheral vision is the first sign of glaucoma.
Cataracts
A cataract is a clouding of the lens of the eye, causing things to look hazy, blurry or less vibrant. More than half of all Americans over age 80 have cataracts or have had surgery to get rid of cataracts.
Retinitis Pigmentosa
This is a group of inherited diseases affecting the retina resulting in progressive vision loss. This type of vision impairment often begins in childhood with poor night vision and progresses over time.
Stargardt Disease
Stargardt disease, also known as fundus flavimaculatus, is a retinal disorder that affects the macula early in life.
Albinism
Albinism is a genetic defect that prevents the body from producing melanin, the pigment that gives hair, skin, and the iris of the eye their color. About one in 20,000 people have albinism.
Want Help to See Better?
Ask for a referral for low vision care from your own eyecare provider, neurologist or other healthcare provider. You can also search our Low Vision Prescriber Network for a low vision specialist near you.