World Sight Day: Signs Of Vision Loss

It’s common for people to think that vision loss is straightforward: one day your vision just changes. However, vision changes often happen so slowly that you don’t notice them.  For World Vision Day in October, familiarize yourself with these subtle signs of vision loss, so you can recognize them in yourself or in an elderly companion. And if you do have vision loss, remember that you can get help to improve your vision.

1. Strained Eyes

When we start to have vision loss, our eyes attempt to compensate by straining or squinting. While you may still see normally while your eyes strain, the muscles around your eyes will get fatigued. You might experience pain, itchy eyes, watery eyes, even headaches. And eventually, your eyes will no longer be able to compensate. It’s best to get these symptoms looked at right away.

2. Headaches

While headaches can be caused by eye straining, they can also be caused by pressure build up in your eyes, which also causes vision loss. Of course, vision problems aren’t the only cause of headaches, but are more likely to be caused by vision problems if you’re experiencing more of the symptoms on this list.

3. Light Problems

If you find yourself suddenly recoiling from sources of light, or if they seem brighter than normal, you could be experiencing vision problems. You might also see spots of light or “halos”, which are unusual circles of light around lamp posts and light bulbs.

4. Visual Disturbances

Typically, when we think of symptoms of vision loss, we think of big visual disturbances, like dark spots or reduced peripheral vision. Less common visual disturbances include straight things appearing curved, and colours blending together. You might also find it’s harder to see at night during the day, or harder to recognize faces or other complicated objects.

Get Vision Help From iCare Home Health

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, or other symptoms that you think might be related to vision loss, contact your doctor or optometrist today. Poor vision can also be symptomatic of other health issues, and it can make navigating your home and community difficult. Other services can help with these issues, including services like iCare’s home health care in Mississauga. Whatever level of support you end up needing for vision loss, from an elderly companion to home health care in Mississauga, iCare can help. An elderly companion might be what you need if you find yourself unable to find important items because of your vision loss. Contact iCare Home Health today to discuss what level of care is best for you.