Your field of vision includes everything you are able to see, both peripheral and central vision. Central vision is what’s in front of you, while peripheral vision is what you can see without turning your head. Also known as tunnel vision, the loss of peripheral vision can be concerning for many people, especially if it happens suddenly.
Peripheral vision loss is more common than you think, affecting about 13 percent of people over 65 years old, according to MedicalNewsToday. Let’s take a closer look at tunnel vision and what it feels like.
Peripheral Vision Loss: Defined
Also known as peripheral visual field loss, peripheral vision loss may affect one or both eyes. The extent of loss can also differ from one eye to the other. If you have tunnel vision, it may feel like you are looking through a tube or rolled-up magazine – basically what’s right in front of you.
Peripheral vision loss may be brought on by many different factors in addition to age, including:
- Retinitis pigmentosa
- Glaucoma
- Diabetic retinopathy
- Migraine
- Stroke
If you experience sudden peripheral vision loss, get in touch with your eye doctor immediately so they can determine the underlying cause and start appropriate treatment. Getting regular comprehensive eye exams will help to detect tunnel vision and other eye conditions before they worsen.
Symptoms of Peripheral Vision Loss
If you have peripheral vision loss (PVL), you can usually see what is right in front of you with no problem but can have gaps in your side vision which would necessitate turning your head for a proper view. It’s called tunnel vision for a reason because you can see what’s directly in front of you but cannot see images below, above, and around you at all. In fact, they appear blurry or dark.
Here are some symptoms of tunnel vision:
- Blurry or dark peripheral vision in one or both eyes
- Bumping into objects
- Difficulty navigating through crowds or driving
- Loss of balance
Losing your peripheral vision can significantly impact your ability to engage in daily activities because it affects depth perception, spatial awareness, and peripheral situational awareness. You may need to make adjustments in your daily routine, wear visual aids, or engage in rehabilitation techniques in order to adapt to the changing visual landscape while maintaining a sense of safety and independence.
How to Test For Peripheral Vision Loss
Your doctor can test your peripheral vision during your regular eye exam. This is called a visual field test and it’s very easy with no prep work. The results are immediate and they will tell your doctor just how far up and down and to either side you are able to see without moving your head. It will also reveal how sensitive your vision is in all parts of your visual field, says the Cleveland Clinic.
There are things you can do to help your peripheral vision:
- Get regular eye exams
- Stay active
- Follow a healthy eating plan
- Manage your weight
- Wear eye protection, including sunglasses
- Engage in vision therapy (eye exercises)
PVL may be permanent or temporary, depending on the cause. Temporary PVL most likely happens with the onset of migraines, while permanent PVL can be caused by a condition such as diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma, or stroke.
Book Your Consultation With Broberg Eye Care Today
Having trouble with your peripheral vision? Just schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at (512) 447-6096 or complete our online form. We are open Monday through Thursday 8am to 5pm and Friday 8am to noon, and are located at 4207 James Casey St #305 in Austin, TX.