Have you been having trouble with your vision lately? It’s important to pay attention to changes in your eyesight, as it could be a sign of low vision. Low vision is a common issue affecting many people, yet it often goes unnoticed until it begins to significantly impact daily life. Understanding the signs and symptoms of low vision is crucial for seeking timely care and improving your quality of life. In this blog, we’ll discuss some common signs of low vision and when to seek help.
What is low vision?
Low vision is a visual impairment that cannot be corrected with glasses, contact lenses, medication, or surgery. It can impact daily activities such as reading, driving, or watching TV. One way to tell if you have low vision is if you struggle with these activities even while wearing corrective lenses. If you find yourself squinting often or experiencing frequent headaches while trying to see clearly, it may be a sign of low vision.
Signs and symptoms of low vision
Recognizing the symptoms of low vision early on can lead to better management and improved outcomes. Here are some common signs to watch for:
1. Difficulty reading
One of the first signs of low vision is trouble with reading. If you need more light, hold books or newspapers closer or farther away than usual, or if the text looks blurry or distorted, it might be time to get your eyes checked.
2. Problems with close-up work
Are you struggling with tasks that require you to focus on close objects, like sewing, using a smartphone, or reading labels? If you find yourself reaching for a magnifying glass more often, low vision might be the reason.
3. Trouble recognizing faces
If you have a hard time recognizing friends or family members from a distance, it can be a sign of low vision. This can be frustrating in social situations, but help is available.
4. Difficulty with color perception
Do colors seem faded or hard to tell apart? Low vision can affect your ability to see colors clearly, making activities like choosing clothes or cooking more difficult.
5. Reduced night vision
Low vision can make it difficult to see in low light or at night. Talk to a professional if you feel unsafe driving after dark or walking in dimly lit areas.
6. Frequent prescription changes
You could have low vision if your glasses or contact lens prescription changes often without making a big difference in your vision.
7. Glare or light sensitivity
Increased sensitivity to light and glare can be uncomfortable and make it hard to see in bright environments. This is another potential sign of low vision.
8. Peripheral vision loss
Bumping into objects or having trouble seeing things off to the side can indicate a loss of peripheral (side) vision, which is a common symptom of low vision.
When to see a professional
If you suspect that you may have low vision based on these signs and symptoms, it’s crucial to schedule an eye exam with your optometrist as soon as possible. Your eye doctor will conduct a thorough evaluation of your eyesight and overall eye health to determine the cause of your visual impairment. Depending on the results of the exam, your eye doctor may recommend treatments such as prescription glasses designed for low vision, magnifiers for reading small print, or other visual aids.
If you think you might have low vision, reach out to Giles Eye Care in Portland, Maine. We’re here to help you see better and live better. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and let us help you improve your vision and quality of life.