Näkölaatu

Näkölaatu refers to the overall quality of vision, encompassing not just the ability to see clearly but also factors like contrast sensitivity, color perception, and the absence of visual disturbances. It is a subjective experience that can vary significantly from person to person, even among those with the same visual acuity.

Factors influencing näkölaatu include the clarity of the ocular media (cornea, lens, vitreous humor), the health of the retina and optic nerve, and the way the brain processes visual information. Conditions such as dry eye, cataracts, glaucoma, and macular degeneration can all negatively impact näkölaatu, even if visual acuity remains within a normal range. Symptoms that might indicate poor näkölaatu include difficulty seeing in low light, glare sensitivity, halos around lights, reduced contrast perception, and wavy or distorted vision.

While visual acuity, measured by charts like the Snellen chart, is a common objective measure of vision, it does not fully capture the concept of näkölaatu. A person might have 20/20 vision but still experience significant visual discomfort or limitations due to poor näkölaatu. Optometrists and ophthalmologists may use specialized tests to assess various aspects of visual function that contribute to the overall quality of vision. Improving näkölaatu often involves addressing underlying eye conditions, managing environmental factors that affect vision, or considering visual aids.