Early Signs of Vision Loss

Millions of people around the world suffer from visual impairment. Vision loss or loss of sight can result from different factors, ranging from injury to eye diseases. According to experts, a majority of the vision loss cases could have been cured or avoided. 

Early detection and treatment can prevent complete or partial vision loss. Regular eye exams are vital for detecting progressive conditions and ensuring effective management. Understanding the signs and symptoms of eye conditions is vital. Here are some early signs of vision loss. 

Changes in Visual Clarity

The constant change from clear to fuzzy vision occurs when the fine blood vessels in the retina become damaged. This fluctuating clarity can happen throughout the day, and it can be an early sign of diabetic retinopathy. The patient may see clearly in one moment and, in the next, everything appears blurry. This means that the patient may not complete simple close tasks like using the computer, reading, or sewing.

Loss of Peripheral Vision

A loss of peripheral or side vision can be an early sign of glaucoma, a condition that can cause vision loss. This disease results from pressure building on the optic nerve, leading to poor vision. The condition develops gradually, and it does not usually exhibit symptoms in the early stages. Loss of side vision can also be due to trauma after a car accident. Bumping into people or things can be an indication of loss of side vision. 

Empty or Dark Patch in the Vision

Seeing an empty or dark patch in the central part of the vision is another early sign of vision loss. This is a symptom that usually affects people with macular degeneration (AMD). Change or degeneration of the macula can lead to vision loss. The macula is the part of the retina that has nerve cells responsible for clear vision. 

Sudden Vision Loss in One Eye

Experiencing a sudden loss of vision can be a sign of different eye conditions or diseases, including AMD and glaucoma. Vision loss from AMD is usually gradual, but sometimes the loss can be sudden in one eye. Sudden vision loss occurs when blood or fluid leaks from the blood vessels in the retina. Rapid buildup of the eye fluid pressure can damage the optic nerve when a patient has glaucoma.

A Brown Tint in the Vision

A brownish hue or tint in the vision and blurred vision can be signs of cataracts. This condition is caused by the clouding of the eye lens, and it can affect vision in one or both eyes. Cataracts are common among the elderly, and surgery usually corrects the condition. Blurred vision can happen gradually, and most people are not aware of it in the early stages. Damage from cataracts increases with age, with the vision taking on a yellowish or brownish tinge.

There are other early signs of vision loss. The signs include gray shadows, “floaters” or “flashes” in the vision, eye pain, eye injury, and persistent eye discomfort. Other signs are a red-eye, discomfort when wearing contacts, and complications of eye surgery. Loss of vision tends to happen gradually, and the signs are often subtle. You should get regular eye exams to prevent vision loss. 

For more on vision loss, visit Urban Optics at our office in College Station, Texas. You can call (979) 690-0888 or text (979) 326-1704 today to schedule an appointment.