Vision loss
Vision loss affects how well you see. The causes of vision loss can often be treated, but sometimes it may be permanent. Get your sight checked if you have symptoms.
If these symptoms are severe, persistent or worsening, seek medical advice promptly.
-
On this page
Vision loss affects how well you see. The causes of vision loss can often be treated, but sometimes it may be permanent. Get your sight checked if you have symptoms.
Symptoms of vision loss
The main symptom of vision loss is not being able to see properly.
It can gradually get worse over time or happen suddenly. It can affect 1 or both eyes.
Symptoms of vision loss can include:
- changes to your vision
- difficulty reading, watching TV, or seeing peoples' faces clearly
- your eyes being uncomfortable in or sensitive to bright light
- difficulty seeing at night and in low light
You can have vision loss at any age, but it's more common as you get older.
Vision loss in children
Vision loss in children is rare, but any problems will usually be found during routine eye tests for children.
Speak to your health visitor or GP if you're worried about your child's vision.
See an optician if:
- you think you may have vision loss
Early diagnosis and treatment may help stop your vision getting worse.
Go to A&E or call 112 if you:
- suddenly cannot see from 1 or both eyes
- suddenly have severe eye pain
Do not drive to A&E. Ask someone to drive you or call 112 and ask for an ambulance.
Bring any medicines you take with you.
Causes of vision loss
There are lots of possible causes of vision loss. Some are common and can be treated, but some conditions may cause permanent vision loss.
Your symptoms may give you an idea what could be causing it.
| Symptoms | Possible cause |
|---|---|
|
Blurred or cloudy vision, seeing a glowing ring (halo) around lights, colours looking less bright |
|
|
Dots, lines, flashes, darkness, or shadows appearing in your vision, often starts suddenly |
|
|
Distorted area in the middle of your vision, difficulty reading, difficulty seeing peoples’ faces |
|
|
Gradual worsening of your sight and you have diabetes |
|
|
Blurred vision, severe eye pain, red eye |
Glaucoma |
Treatments for vision loss
Treatment for vision loss depends on what’s causing it.
If the optician or GP thinks your vision loss is caused by a condition, you’ll usually be referred to an eye specialist (ophthalmologist) for further tests.
The ophthalmologist will discuss any available treatments with you that may improve your vision or may help stop it getting worse. Treatments may include medicines or surgery.
Some conditions can cause permanent vision loss that cannot be treated.
If you have long-term vision loss, the ophthalmologist or GP should refer you to local services that can support you with adapting to living with impaired vision.
