Näköhäviö

Näköhäviö refers to a partial or complete loss of vision. It can affect one or both eyes and range from mild blurriness to total blindness. The causes of näköhäviö are diverse and can include conditions affecting the eye itself, the optic nerve, or the brain's visual processing centers.

Common causes include age-related macular degeneration (AMD), cataracts, glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, and various other eye diseases. Injuries to the eye or head can also lead to vision loss. Certain neurological conditions, such as stroke or tumors affecting the visual pathways in the brain, can also result in näköhäviö.

Symptoms of näköhäviö can vary depending on the underlying cause. They may include blurred vision, distorted vision, blind spots, decreased peripheral vision, light sensitivity, or the inability to see color. In some cases, vision loss can be sudden and dramatic, while in others, it may develop gradually over time.

Diagnosis typically involves a comprehensive eye examination by an ophthalmologist or optometrist. This may include visual acuity tests, visual field tests, and imaging techniques like optical coherence tomography (OCT) or angiography. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are crucial, as some causes of näköhäviö are treatable if caught early.

Treatment strategies depend entirely on the cause. For example, cataracts can often be treated with surgery, while glaucoma may be managed with medication or laser therapy. In cases where vision loss is permanent, rehabilitation services and assistive devices can help individuals adapt and maintain independence.