In our last post, we discussed the different types of color blindness, but have you wondered what causes color vision deficiency? Walk with us as we find out!
CAUSES OF COLOR BLINDNESS
Color blindness has multiple causes, which include;
1. INHERITED DISORDER: Inherited color deficiencies are much more common in males than females. The most common color deficiency is red-green, and blue-yellow deficiency is much less common. It is rare to have no color vision at all. You can inherit a mild, moderate, or severe degree of the disorder. Inherited color deficiencies usually affect both eyes, and the severity does not change over your lifetime.
2. DISEASES: Some conditions that can cause color deficits are sickle cell anemia, diabetes, macular degeneration, multiple sclerosis, glaucoma, chronic alcoholism, and leukemia. One eye may be more affected than the other, and the color deficit may improve if the underlying disease is taken care of.
3. CERTAIN MEDICATIONS: Some medications can alter color vision, such as some drugs that treat certain autoimmune diseases, heart problems, high blood pressure, erectile dysfunction, infections, nervous disorders, and psychological issues.
4. AGING: Your ability to see colors deteriorates as you age.
5. CHEMICALS: Exposure to some chemicals in the workplace, such as carbon disulfide and fertilizers, may cause loss of color vision.
WHAT IS THE TREATMENT FOR COLOR BLINDNESS?
There is no medical treatment or cure for people with inherited color blindness. If you have acquired color blindness, your healthcare provider will treat the underlying condition or adjust your medications as needed. These may help improve your color vision. Color blindness glasses may also provide a richer color experience for people with mild forms of anomalous trichromacy. The glasses enhance the contrast between colors so people with color vision deficiency can see the differences more clearly. But they don’t allow you to see new colors, and the results vary based on the individual. Plus, it’s crucial to know that these glasses aren’t a cure and won’t correct any issues with your cones.
CONCLUSION
Color blindness is a common condition where you don’t see colors traditionally. Color blindness usually doesn’t mean you can’t see any colors. The majority of people with color blindness see a range of colors, but they see some colors differently than others do. If you suspect you have problems distinguishing colors or your color vision changes, schedule a routine eye examination at TREETOP VISION EYE CENTER (TREVEC), the best eye clinic in Utako, Abuja.
TREVEC CARES!!!