Night blindness

Night blindness, also known as nyctalopia, is a condition that results in poor vision in low light or darkness. It is not a disease in itself, but rather a symptom of an underlying condition, usually a problem with the retina.

Causes

Night blindness can be caused by a number of conditions, including:

• Vitamin A deficiency: This vitamin is crucial for the health of your eyes, and a deficiency can lead to night blindness.
• Retinitis pigmentosa: This is a genetic disorder that causes the cells in the retina to break down, leading to night blindness among other symptoms.
• Cataracts: These are cloudy areas in the eye's lens, which can cause night blindness.
• Diabetes: High blood sugar levels can damage the blood vessels in the retina, leading to night blindness.

Symptoms

The main symptom of night blindness is difficulty seeing in low light or darkness. This can make it hard to drive at night or navigate in a dark room. Other symptoms can include blurry vision and trouble adjusting to changing light conditions.

Diagnosis

To diagnose night blindness, a doctor will usually perform a thorough eye exam. They may also ask about your medical history and any symptoms you're experiencing. In some cases, they may refer you to an ophthalmologist for further testing.

Treatment

Treatment for night blindness depends on the underlying cause. For example, if it's caused by a vitamin A deficiency, your doctor may recommend dietary changes or supplements. If it's due to a condition like retinitis pigmentosa, they may suggest treatments to slow the progression of the disease.

See also

• Visual impairment
• Blindness
• Eye disease

References

Night blindness Resources
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