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[edit | edit source]

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[edit | edit source]

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[edit | edit source]

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[edit | edit source]

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.

References[edit | edit source]

Night blindness Resources
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