Description of Night Blindness

Night blindness refers to an inability to see clearly in darkness or dim light. Sufferers may also feel as though it takes them longer to effectively adapt their sight in faint light. Night blindness may sometimes be a reaction to an underlying condition.

• Night blindness can be frustrating, but it is treatable.

Causes

• Cataracts, myopia and retinitis pigmentosa may impact your ability to see well at night. Glaucoma medications that constrict the pupil could also contribute to the condition.

Treatment

• Depending on the cause, treatment ranges from getting a new pair of eyeglasses, changing glaucoma medications or surgery on the eye.

Considerations

• Night blindness could result in difficulty driving at night. Those afflicted may find it challenging to identify or distinguish among different sources of light.

Warning

• According to Gui-shuang Ying, an assistant professor of ophthalmology at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, poor night vision could be a precursor of macular degeneration.

Prevention

• Getting adequate Vitamin A may help protect the eyes against night blindness. Eggs, meat and dairy products as well as dark leafy greens are good sources.