subject: Low Vision- Understanding Your Vision Loss [print this page] Low vision occurs in different people for different reasons. As the body ages, it is natural for the eyes to weaken. This is known as macular degeneration and it is the primary cause for vision loss in most people. However, some people experience vision loss due to cataracts, glaucoma, or even diabetes. By taking the time to understand how you are losing your sight and which elements are affecting your vision, you will be better prepared for regaining your vision and your life. Glasses and other corrective lenses can help with most vision loss, but sometimes they are not even enough to give people the vision that they deserve.
The National Eye Institute estimates that of Americans that are older than 40, about 3 million experience low vision issues. Sometimes, these people can find relief by treating the underlying cause of the vision problems, but this isn't always a viable option. Some sight loss may simply never be restored because of the degeneration of the eye that comes with age. In order to figure out why you are losing sight, you need to talk to your doctor. First, however, you should know the symptoms so that you can make the most of your situation.
Low vision symptoms include things like:
-Difficulty seeing clearly
-Trouble recognizing faces, signs, or pictures
-Difficulty focusing on reading materials or print
-Trouble seeing well up close
If you have any of these symptoms, you need to talk to your doctor so that you can accurately diagnose your low vision problems. When you have the right diagnosis, it will be much easier to find the right treatment for your vision issues. More importantly, it will be easier for you to understand what you can do to carry on with your life and still enjoy your activities in spite of your vision loss.
There are products on the market today that can help with your vision loss issues. You can find a variety of different electronic magnifiers that you can use to read better, enjoy activities and hobbies, and even watch TV or simply see yourself more clearly when you are getting ready for the day. If you have vision loss and your corrective lenses aren't doing enough to help, you should check out low vision products and see what you can find to help. Just because you lose some of your quality of vision doesn't mean that you have to lose your quality of life.
