Description People suffering fr...
Description
People suffering from nyctalopia (night blindness) cannot see in dim or dark lighting. Night blindness can be caused by a vitamin A or zinc deficiency, or a more serious condition called retinitis pigmentosa. Other possible causes of night blindness include cataracts, some glaucoma medications and diabetic retinopathy.
Symptoms
Symptoms may include difficulty seeing at night, difficulty seeing in dim light and difficulty adjusting to changes in light.
Tests
Common tests used for diagnosis and treatment
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed including a specialized eye exam called a slit lamp exam. More specific tests may be ordered to test for underlying causes of night blindness.
Tests:
Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), Basic metabolic panel (BMP)
Other Specific Tests: vitamin A level
Specialists:
Ophthalmology, Pediatric Ophthalmology
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed including a specialized eye exam called a slit lamp exam. More specific tests may be ordered to test for underlying causes of night blindness.
Tests:
Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), Basic metabolic panel (BMP)
Other Specific Tests: vitamin A level
Specialists:
Ophthalmology, Pediatric Ophthalmology
Treatment
Treatment depends on the underlying cause of night blindness. Depending on the condition causing the night blindness, treatment can include upgrading prescription glasses, changing medication (usually for glaucoma) or surgery.