WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO BE COLOR BLIND?
Color blindness, also known as color vision deficiency, is the inability or decreased capacity to see color or to see differences in color. There are three main types of color blindness:
- Red – Green Color Blindness is the most common form of color deficiency.
- Blue – Yellow Color Blindness is less common.
- Complete Color Blindness is the most rare form of color deficiency.
The most common types of color blindness are hereditary. Red – Green Color Blindness results from the loss or limited function of red cone or green cone photopigments within the retina. Men are more apt to inherit this form of color blindness because it is carried in the X chromosome. Women have two X chromosomes, so if one of the photopigments is missing, the second X chromosome may have both photopigments, compensating for the one missing.
Blue – Yellow Color Blindness affects men and women equally, however, it is more rare than Red – Green Color Blindness. Blue appears greener and yellow is completely indistinguishable. Those afflicted with Complete Color Blindness, or monochromacy, live a life devoid of color and the clarity of their visual acuity may be compromised. Color blindness can be a burden in everyday life. Although there is no cure for the infirmity, those with color blindness can learn to adapt to their particular situation. School children who have been diagnosed with color deficiency can request assistance with assignments that involve color coding. A driver that has Red – Green Color Blindness can memorize the order of the traffic lights in order to be able to follow traffic laws.
People with Red -Green Color Blindness can benefit from special eyeglass lenses, which worn outdoors in bright sunlight, will allow them to perceive colors far more accurately. Also, visual aids, including smartphone apps, have been created to assist people with discerning colors.
If you suspect that you or a loved one has color blindness, make an appointment at Westside Eye Clinic by calling us at (504) 347-8434. For more information, you can submit a request at info@westsideeyeclinic.com. We are located at 4601 Wichers Drive in Marrero and are at your service Monday through Wednesday from 9am – 5pm; Thursday and Friday from 9am – 4pm; and by appointment only on Saturday.
Your complete eye health is our top priority!
The content on this blog is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of qualified health providers with questions you may have regarding medical conditions.
