Low vision results from certain eye conditions or diseases. Some of the causes include macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, and retinitis pigmentosa. Cataracts and glaucoma are also frequent causes of low vision difficulties.
Serving the Low Vision Needs of Patients
If you have been diagnosed with macular degeneration or cataracts by an eye doctor in Smyrna, TN, he or she can assist you in seeing better with low vision aids. For example, lighted LED magnifiers are available that can last almost three decades. The advanced instruments run on regular batteries. Handheld units are available that can be used for reading in church or the menu in a restaurant as well.
Macular Degeneration
An eye doctor’s diagnosis of macular degeneration focuses on retinal functioning. The retina is a lining at the back of the eye that is sensitive to light and is used for focusing. The macula is an area of the retina that sharpens the vision. When it deteriorates, blurriness results. In turn, the patient has difficulty reading or performing activities such as knitting.
Cataracts
Your eye doctor may also diagnose cataracts. A cataract affects the lens of the eye by clouding the light that is streaming toward the retina. In turn, the patient finds it hard to see. Cataract sufferers normally are older or develop cataracts from long-term exposure to the sun.
Cataract Surgery
If your eyes are healthy and you have cataracts, an eye doctor will probably recommend cataract surgery. In these instances, an intraocular lens may be inserted into the eye, which restores sight. This type of surgery is known to have a high rate of success.
Vision Testing
If you require low vision aids, the doctor will perform an evaluation and find out more details about your television viewing or reading habits. Vision aid testing is conducted using reading materials such as large-print periodicals or the phonebook. The patient’s distance vision is tested with the use of eye charts.
To find out more about vision services, click here for further details. If you are currently having vision difficulties or you have not had your eyes tested recently, make an appointment with an optical specialist now. Most vision centers are open from early morning to evening from Monday through Friday.
