Alteration in the colour vision may be present from birth as a congenital defect. It occurs from sudden injury of the optic pathway that may involve the optic nerve, macula, retina and choroid.
The disorder may affect only one eye (unilateral) or both eyes (bilateral). The alteration can manifest itself in different ways, including a weakening ability to differentiate colour shades, especially red and green colours, and sometimes can be accompanied by a progressive reduction of vision.
What kind of diseases can be associated with the colour vision deficiency?
Diseases that can be associated with the colour vision deficiency are the following:
- Stroke
- Optic neuritis
- Retinitis pigmentosa
- Retinoblastoma
- Diabetic retinopathy
- Corneal ulcer
- Macular degeneration
Remember that this is not an exhaustive list and it is highly recommended to consult your doctor, in case of symptom’s persistence.
What is the therapy for colour vision deficiency?
The disorder can be treated only after direct diagnosis of the cause is determined. Generally drug therapy is used when there is an infection or an inflammation of the visual pathways.
In all other cases the impaired vision is a secondary symptom. In that case treating the pathology leading to the impaired vision is needed. Pharmacological therapy, chemotherapy or surgical approach may be needed to help with the primary disease.
When is most likely to contact your doctor in case of colour vision deficiency?
When the colour vision is impaired the patient must always promptly undergo an examination because the symptoms may be related to various diseases, such as stroke, for which a rapid intervention is essential to ensure a better chance of healing.
