RECOGNISING SIGNS OF NIGHT BLINDNESS (NYCTALOPIA)

Being scared of the dark can affect adults, especially when vision is poor in low-light or dark environments. Therefore, wondering how to identify night blindness, especially since it is dark at night and visibility is poor, is perfectly fine.

DO I HAVE NIGHT BLINDNESS?

Night blindness can stem from various underlying conditions, causing symptoms to differ. Common indications of night blindness include:

-Complete vision loss when entering a dark space (lasting longer than a few minutes)
– Light sensitivity
– Inability to see stars in the nighttime sky
– Hardship in seeing faraway objects in low light
– Blurred or hazy vision in dim light
– Glare or halos appearing around lights
– Difficulty identifying objects or faces in low-light conditions

HOW IS NIGHT BLINDNESS TREATED?

Addressing night blindness requires treating the underlying cause. Some issues, such as cataracts or vitamin A deficiency, are manageable or curable. Several causes of night blindness, particularly genetic disorders, may not be treatable. In these cases, the approach is to address the impacts of night blindness or other symptoms.

Since numerous factors can lead to or exacerbate night blindness, treatment options can vary significantly. Your eye care professional will be the best source for understanding the cause and potential treatment options.

HOW CAN NIGHT BLINDNESS BE PREVENTED?

Preventing night blindness resulting from genetic defects or inherited conditions is impossible. However, you can reduce the chances of developing night blindness by closely monitoring your blood sugar levels and following a balanced diet.  Incorporate foods high in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals to lower the risk of cataracts potentially. Additionally, consume foods rich in vitamin A to decrease your chances of experiencing night blindness. Some excellent sources of vitamin A include the following foods: Sweet potatoes, spinach, carrots, collard greens, milk, eggs, pumpkins, mangoes, and so on.

WHAT ARE THE POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS OR RISKS OF NOT TREATING NIGHT BLINDNESS?

Many conditions causing night blindness can also impair your vision during the day. They may render your vision unclear, blur images, alter your perception of colors, and more. Since most individuals heavily depend on their sight, poor visibility can result in significant and hazardous disruptions. You may struggle with driving at night. Navigating in twilight can be perilous if your eyes cannot adjust to the changing light conditions. Driving after dark can be risky when your eyes have difficulties adapting between darkness and various light sources, such as streetlights and car headlights.

CONCLUSION

Night blindness cannot be self-diagnosed or self-treated. If you notice difficulties, it is essential to consult an Optometrist. Although most underlying causes are not severe, they can still disrupt your vision, and timely diagnosis and intervention may help prevent further problems. If you observe that you are having trouble seeing in the dark, refrain from driving or engaging in other potentially risky activities until you consult an Optometrist. It is best not to jeopardize your safety or that of others until they indicate it is safe to proceed. Night blindness can arise from various reasons, most of which are treatable. They can help identify what’s causing your difficulties and suggest treatment options or coping strategies. Most importantly, they can assist in finding ways to navigate or ease the fear of what remains unseen.

If you notice issues with your night vision or visibility in dark areas, visit us at TREETOP VISION EYE CENTRE (TREVEC), the best eye clinic in Utako, Abuja.

TREVEC CARES!!!