For many people, standard glasses or contact lenses can correct vision problems. But for others, vision loss cannot be fully restored. This is known as low vision, a condition that interferes with daily life and often cannot be improved with conventional treatments. At Chroma Optics, we’re committed to helping patients in Burlington and surrounding areas understand their condition and discover practical solutions that make a difference in their quality of life.

Understanding Low Vision

Low vision refers to significant visual impairment that cannot be fully corrected with traditional glasses, contact lenses, medication, or surgery. It does not mean total blindness, but it can make tasks like reading, driving, recognizing faces, or navigating your environment much more challenging. Understanding the underlying causes and specific type of low vision is key to finding the most effective support.

Central Vision Loss

Central vision loss affects the center of your visual field, making it challenging to see fine details, read small print, or recognize faces. Although the central vision is impaired, peripheral vision typically remains intact. One of the most common causes of central vision loss is age-related macular degeneration (AMD), which primarily affects older adults and is a leading cause of vision impairment in this group.

Peripheral Vision Loss

Peripheral vision loss, often referred to as tunnel vision, limits your ability to see objects unless they are directly in front of you. This can significantly affect mobility and awareness of your surroundings. Glaucoma is a leading cause of peripheral vision loss. Another contributing condition is retinitis pigmentosa, a rare genetic disorder that causes progressive degeneration of peripheral vision over time.

Blurry Vision

Blurry vision reduces the sharpness and clarity of sight, whether up close or at a distance. It can fluctuate in severity and often interferes with everyday tasks. Two of the most common causes of blurry vision include diabetic retinopathy, in which high blood sugar levels damage the retinal blood vessels, and cataracts, which cause clouding of the eye’s natural lens.

Night Blindness

Night blindness refers to difficulty seeing in low-light conditions or at night, which can impact tasks like driving or moving around safely in dimly lit areas. This condition can result from several issues, including vitamin A deficiency, retinitis pigmentosa, and cataracts, each of which affects the retina’s ability to function effectively in dark environments.

Loss of Contrast Sensitivity

Loss of contrast sensitivity makes it difficult to distinguish objects from backgrounds with similar colors or tones. This can make activities like reading, recognizing facial expressions, or navigating stairs more difficult. Conditions that commonly lead to reduced contrast sensitivity include macular degeneration, cataracts, and various optic nerve disorders.

How We Help Patients in Burlington and Beyond

At Chroma Optics, Dr. Sudarsky performs comprehensive low vision evaluations to understand the nature and extent of your vision loss. Based on this evaluation, she’ll work with you to identify the most effective low vision tools and devices—such as magnifiers, specialized lenses, or electronic aids—and create a personalized treatment plan that fits your lifestyle and goals. Dr. Sudarsky also provides strategies and resources to support your independence and help you navigate daily life with greater ease.

Schedule Your Low Vision Evaluation Today

Living with low vision can be challenging, but with the right care and support, it’s possible to regain confidence and independence. Understanding the types and causes of low vision is the first step toward better management and improved daily functioning.

If low vision is affecting your daily life, scheduled an eye exam with Chroma Optics to find the best tools and solutions for your unique needs. Visit our office in Burlington, Vermont, or call (802) 497-1676 to book an appointment today.