Peripheral Vision Loss: What It Is & How To Treat It
Peripheral vision loss, often referred to as tunnel vision, is the reduction or absence of the ability to see objects outside of the direct line of sight. While your central vision allows you to focus on specific details, your peripheral vision helps you detect motion and see your surroundings. When peripheral vision is compromised, it can severely affect daily activities such as driving, walking, and recognizing people or objects. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatments for peripheral vision loss is crucial in managing this condition and preventing further damage.
What Is Peripheral Vision Loss?
Peripheral vision loss occurs when the outer edges of your field of vision become impaired, causing difficulty in seeing objects off to the side. This creates a “tunnel” effect, where you can only see what’s directly in front of you while everything around you fades from view. Loss of peripheral vision can be gradual or sudden, depending on the underlying cause. Peripheral vision loss can range from mild to severe and may affect one or both eyes. Some common symptoms associated with peripheral vision loss include:
- Narrowing of the visual field (tunnel vision)
- Difficulty seeing in low light or at night
- Bumping into objects or walls due to reduced side awareness
- Inability to detect motion outside of your central focus
Common Causes of Peripheral Vision Loss
Several conditions can lead to the loss of peripheral vision. Identifying the cause is essential for determining the best treatment plan. Each of these causes affects the visual system differently, leading to varying levels of peripheral vision impairment. Here are some of the most common causes:
- Glaucoma
- Stroke
- Retinal Detachment
- Optic Nerve Disorders
- Migraines
- Retinitis Pigmentosa
- Eye Trauma
Glaucoma
Glaucoma is one of the leading causes of peripheral vision loss. This condition is characterized by increased pressure within the eye, which damages the optic nerve and can lead to blindness if not treated. Peripheral vision is often the first to be affected by glaucoma, and over time, it may progress to total vision loss. Regular eye exams are crucial for diagnosing and managing glaucoma before it significantly affects vision.
- Symptoms: Gradual loss of peripheral vision, eye pain, headaches, and halos around lights.
- Treatment: Glaucoma is treated with prescription eye drops to reduce eye pressure, laser treatments, or surgical procedures. Early detection is key to preventing irreversible vision loss.
Stroke
A stroke occurs when the blood supply to the brain is interrupted, leading to damage in certain areas of the brain. If the stroke affects the areas responsible for peripheral vision, it can result in sudden and permanent vision loss. Early medical intervention during a stroke can limit damage to the visual processing areas of the brain.
- Symptoms: Sudden loss of vision, especially in one part of the visual field, weakness on one side of the body, and difficulty speaking or understanding speech.
- Treatment: Stroke-induced peripheral vision loss rarely improves.
Retinal Detachment
A detached retina occurs when the retina separates from the back of the eye, cutting off its blood supply and damaging the cells that process light. This condition is considered an emergency and can result in permanent vision loss if not treated promptly. Early detection and treatment are essential to prevent further vision loss.
- Symptoms: Flashes of light, sudden onset of floaters, and a shadow or curtain covering part of your vision.
- Treatment: Retinal detachment is treated surgically, either through laser procedures or more invasive surgeries, depending on the severity.
Optic Nerve Disorders
The optic nerve is the cable that connects the eye to brain. It is responsible for all aspects of visual function; therefore, damage results in loss of vision, either central or peripheral. Such disorders include optic neuritis (inflammation of the nerve), ischemic optic neuropathy (or optic nerve stroke), papilledema (increased intracranial pressure), or optic nerve drusen.
- Symptoms: sudden or gradual loss of peripheral vision, sometimes painful.
- Treatment: depends on the particular cause of optic nerve disorder.
Migraines
Some individuals experience visual disturbances during migraines, known as migraine auras. These disturbances can include temporary peripheral vision loss, flashing lights, or blind spots. The visual symptoms typically resolve within 15-20 minutes. Migraines can be triggered by stress, certain foods, or environmental factors, so identifying and avoiding triggers is an important part of managing the condition.
- Symptoms: Temporary vision loss, light sensitivity, and seeing zigzag patterns or flashing lights.
- Treatment: Treating the migraine itself, through medications or lifestyle adjustments, often resolves the visual symptoms. In some cases, preventive medications may be necessary if migraines occur frequently.
Retinitis Pigmentosa
Retinitis pigmentosa (RP) is a rare genetic disorder that affects the retina, the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye. Over time, it leads to a progressive loss of peripheral vision and, in some cases, central vision as well. RP is a hereditary condition, so regular monitoring is vital for individuals with a family history of the disease.
- Symptoms: Night blindness, difficulty adjusting to different lighting conditions, and loss of peripheral vision.
- Treatment: While there is no cure for retinitis pigmentosa, vitamin A supplements may slow its progression and low-vision aids can help compensate for vision loss. Gene therapy, nanobody therapy, and retinal implants are all being explored as possible treatments for RP.
Eye Trauma
Injury to the eye or head can also lead to peripheral vision loss. Trauma can damage the optic nerve or retina, leading to a loss of side vision. Depending on the severity of the injury, this vision loss may be temporary or permanent. Preventing eye injuries through the use of safety glasses during high-risk activities can help protect your vision.
- Symptoms: Blurred vision, difficulty focusing, and partial vision loss.
- Treatment: Eye trauma requires prompt medical attention to minimize damage. Treatment may involve surgery, medications, or wearing protective eyewear during recovery.
How Is Peripheral Vision Loss Diagnosed?
Diagnosing peripheral vision loss typically involves a comprehensive eye exam and specific tests designed to measure your visual field. These tests include:
- Visual field test: Measures the extent of your peripheral vision and detects any blind spots.
- Ophthalmoscopy: A detailed examination of the retina and optic nerve to check for any damage or abnormalities.
- Tonometry: Measures eye pressure to detect conditions like glaucoma.
Once peripheral vision loss is diagnosed, your eye doctor will determine the underlying cause and recommend the appropriate treatment or management plan.
Peripheral Vision Loss Treatment at Dean McGee Eye Institute
Peripheral vision loss can significantly impact your daily activities and quality of life. Whether it is caused by glaucoma, retinitis pigmentosa, stroke, or other factors, early detection and treatment are important for preserving vision. Regular eye exams and prompt medical attention can help identify the cause of peripheral vision loss and guide the best course of treatment. If you experience any changes in your peripheral vision, contact your eye care professional at Dean McGee Eye Institute immediately to prevent further vision deterioration.
