Vitamin A and Night Blindness | LIVESTRONG.COM Vitamin A and Night Blindness by MARTINA MCATEE Last Updated: Sep 01, 2015 Martina McAtee Based in Florida, Martina McAtee has been writing health and fitness articles since 2003. She attended Keiser University, graduating with an Associate of Science in nursing. McAtee is currently working toward a master's degree in nursing from Florida Atlantic University. Foods such as broccoli can help to prevent night blindness. Photo Credit Medioimages/Photodisc/Photodisc/Getty Images Night blindness, or keratomalacia, means that a person has poor vision in dim light or at night. The National Institutes of Health lists night blindness as a rare disease, meaning that it commonly affects less than 200,000 people in the United States. One of the major causes of night blindness is a deficiency in vitamin A, also known as retinol. Night Blindness People with night blindness often have difficulty driving at night or seeing long distances in low light. The most common cause of night blindness is a vitamin A deficiency, but other disorders can cause the condition.

Cataracts, birth defects, certain medications and a disease called retinitis pigmentosa, which causes retinal damage, can all cause night blindness, according to the National Institutes of Health. Symptoms of night blindness include loss of side or peripheral vision, loss of central vision, and decreased vision at night. Vitamin A Deficiency Vitamin A is essential for healthy growth and development. A vitamin A deficiency occurs most often in people who do not consume enough foods or supplements rich in vitamin A. Night blindness is often one of the first signs of a vitamin A deficiency, according to MayoClinic.com. Prolonged vitamin A deficiencies can lead to chronic dry eye and a buildup of keratin debris in the corners of the eye. Over time, people will experience retinal and corneal damage, leading to blindness. Treatment Unfortunately, once night blindness sets in, there are very few treatment options. The National Institutes of Health explains that while some studies have suggested high levels of vitamin A can slow disease progression. However, these high dosages can also potentially damage the liver. Physicians and patients must weigh the risk of disease progression against the possibility of permanent liver damage.

Sources of Vitamin A People can help to prevent a vitamin A deficiency and night blindness by consuming foods rich in vitamin A. Good sources of vitamin A include meat, milk, cheese, cream, liver, cod, kidney, and halibut. As these choices can often be high in fat, a good alternative is sources of beta carotene, a carotenoid that the body easily converts to vitamin A. Good sources of beta carotene include dark green leafy vegetables, pink grapefruit, cantaloupe, squash, carrots, pumpkin, sweet potatoes, apricots, spinach and broccoli. The University of Maryland Medical Center explains that the more intense the color of the vegetable or fruit, the higher its amount of beta carotene. Warnings A Vitamin A deficiency is rare and, just as consuming too little vitamin A can cause health problems, so can consuming too much. Large doses of vitamin A can cause liver damage and birth defects. Infants and small children are more sensitive to vitamin A and should never be given vitamin A supplements without consulting a physician first. Ingesting large amounts of beta-carotene can affect skin pigmentation, causing the skin to turn orange or yellow. Skin color will return to normal once beta-carotene levels decrease.

Related Searches Lose Weight. Feel Great Change your life with MyPlate by LIVESTRONG.COM GOAL Gain 2 pounds per week Gain 1.5 pounds per week Gain 1 pound per week Gain 0.5 pound per week Maintain my current weight Lose 0.5 pound per week Lose 1 pound per week Lose 1.5 pounds per week Lose 2 pounds per week GENDER Vision - night blindness: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia Retinitis pigmentosa Home Care Take safety measures to prevent accidents in areas of low light. Avoid driving a car at night, unless you get your eye doctor's approval. Vitamin A supplements may be helpful if you have a vitamin A deficiency. Ask your health care provider. When to Contact a Medical Professional It is important to have a complete eye exam to determine the cause, which may be treatable. Call your eye doctor if symptoms of night blindness persist or significantly affect your life. What to Expect at Your Office Visit Your provider will examine you and your eyes. The goal of the medical exam is to determine if the problem can be corrected (for example, with new glasses or cataract removal ), or if the problem is due to something that is not treatable.

The doctor may ask you questions, including: How severe is the night blindness? When did your symptoms start? Did it occur suddenly or gradually? Does it happen all the time? Does using corrective lenses improve night vision? Have you ever had eye surgery? What medications do you use? How is your diet? Have you recently injured your eyes or head? Do you have a family history of diabetes ? Do you have other vision changes? What other symptoms do you have? Do you have unusual stress, anxiety, or a fear of the dark? The eye exam will include: Color vision testing External and internal eye anatomy References Sieving PA, Caruso RC. Retinitis pigmentosa and related disorders. In: Yanoff M, Duker JS, eds. Ophthalmology. 3rd ed. St. Louis, MO: Elsevier Mosby; 2008:chap 6.10. Tomsak RL. Vision loss. In: Bradley WG, Daroff RB, Fenichel GM, Jankovic J, eds. Neurology in Clinical Practice. 5th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Butterworth-Heinemann; 2008:chap 14. Tsang SH, Gouras P.

Molecular Physiology and Pathology of the Retina. In: Tansman W, Jaeger EA, eds. Duane's Ophthalmology. 2013 ed. Philadelphia, PA: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins; 2013:chap 2. Review Date 9/2/2014 Updated by: Franklin W. Lusby, MD, ophthalmologist, Lusby Vision Institute, La Jolla, CA. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Isla Ogilvie, PhD, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team. Related MedlinePlus Health Topics Night Blindness - When Is It Safe To Drive? Michael Garin O.D. Night blindness is not a complete lack of vision at night, as the name implies. It is a below-average ability to see at night or in low light. Night blindness, unlike color blindness , is not a disorder in itself, but rather a symptom of an underlying condition. It can occur in people of all ages, even young children. Your night vision naturally differs from your day vision in many ways.

In darkness, the eye is basically color blind; visual acuity is poor, and the eye sees only a fraction of what it sees in daylight. A central scotoma (an area of diminished vision) appears in the center of the visual field; and the eye is unable detect stationary objects as well as it can detect moving objects. If you have night blindness, you will have consistent difficulties in seeing at night, but will be able to see normally during the day or when an adequate amount of light is present. You will not be able to see objects in the dark that are easily visible to others, and your eyes may need more time to adjust after you go from a brightly lit space into a dark space, such as a movie theatre. People with night blindness often have problems driving at night. If you have a history of poor night vision, whether it is a recent occurrence or a long-standing problem, you should see your eye doctor for an evaluation. Causes of Night Blindness Night blindness, sometimes referred to as nyctalopia or impaired dark adaptation, is due to a disorder of the cells in the retina that are responsible for vision in dim light.

It can be a symptom of a number of conditions that can be acquired or congenital (present at birth): Acquired causes: Cataracts (clouded vision): people with cataracts often have difficulty reading, driving a car — especially at night — and seeing facial expressions. Myopia (nearsightedness): night blindness can be a sign of untreated myopia. Use of certain drugs: some glaucoma medications can cause constriction of the pupils, which can make it difficult to see at night. Vitamin A deficiency: Night blindness is one of the first signs of vitamin A deficiency, which is commonly associated with malnutrition. The vitamin deficiency often develops in malnourished children who are too young to recognize a problem with their night vision or report a vision problem . Congenital causes: Congenital stationary night blindness with or without myopia: This stands for a group of genetically heterogeneous (mutation in gene) disorders. One type of congenital stationary night blindness ( choroideremia ) affects only males; females are carriers of the gene but do not have symptoms. Retinitis pigmentosa : This eye disease is caused by a number of genetic defects that result in damage to the retina.

Affected persons may have decreased vision at night or in low light. They may also have problems with central and peripheral vision. Symptoms may detected in childhood but often become apparent in adulthood. Usher syndrome: This syndrome is characterized by hearing loss and retinitis pigmentosa, which, as noted above, can cause night blindness. Testing for Night Blindness If you have difficulty seeing at night, it is important to visit your eye care professional. He or she will perform tests to determine whether you have night blindness and whether it may be connected to an underlying disease. The eye examination will include the following: Tests to measure your visual acuity, ability to see colors, and your pupil light reflex Night Blindness Symptoms | Reduced Night Vision Renewal Greens 10.6 oz Symptoms Can vary on an individual basis for each patient. Symptoms include weak vision in dim light, difficulty seeing during night driving, and slow vision adaption between bright and dim light conditions. Only your doctor can provide adequate diagnosis of any signs or symptoms and whether they are indeed night blindness symptoms. Causes & Related Conditions The rods and cones in your eye are the photoreceptors that take in light and pass information through the optic nerve to your brain for interpretation.

The rods are responsible for vision in dim light and if there is a problem with these cells, poor or no night vision is the result. Night blindness, known as Congenital night vision disorder (complete or incomplete) is a genetic defect-related condition associated with failure of rods and cones to function correctly. In the complete form the rods in your retina do not respond to light and you cannot see in dim light conditions. But almost any vision condition may result in poor vision which is especially problematic at night, and with sudden shifts from dark to light to dark, as when you are driving at night and another car approaches. If you are having difficulty seeing at night then you should ask your doctor about your symptoms. Retinitis pigmentosa and rod-done dystrophy are specially associated with rod and cone problems. Other conditions that may result in poor night vision include: celiac disease, cystic fibrosis, bile duct obstruction, cirrhosis of the liver, lasik eye surgery, cataracts, diabetic retinopathy, fuch's dystrophy myopia, glaucoma, macular degeneration, retinal detachment, and vitreous detachment. Diabetes, which develops due to elevated blood sugar levels damages the retina.

Night blindness is an early indicator of damage due to diabetes. Cataracts. Early signs of cataracts are poor night vision with halos around lights, glare and blurry vision. Night blindness is also associated with the following nutritional deficiencies. Taurine deficiency Malabsorption - if it affects vitamin A absorption Trace element deficiencies research of night-blinded children aged 3 to 12 found that the children had low levels of zinc, copper and iron and higher-than-normal levels of lead, arsenic, cadmium and sodium.6 Zinc seems especially important as researchers have reported that while zinc alone does not improve night vision, that if the body is deficient in zinc, then the combination of zinc and vitamin A are more effective than vitamin A.1 Diet & Nutrition Vitamin A is the most clearly researched deficiency associated with night blindness. Certain other nutrients such as bilberry, lutein, ginkgo biloba, taurine, zeaxanthin, and other vitamins and minerals may help night blindness and preserve vision. Zinc if you have a zinc deficiency, then zinc combined with vitamin A is more helpful than vitamin A alone.1 Vegetables.

Vitamin A rich vegetables such as dark green vegetables like spinach, collards, and orange and yellow vegetables such as carrots and sweet potatoes. Lifestyle Increase your visibility - clean your headlights Slow down. That way, you give yourself more time to react to any unexpected hazards. Always wear sunglasses outside, especially on bright days. Blue and green eyed people are particularly sensitive to potential sun-induced damage, so the use of eye protection is paramount. Amber and grey lenses are the most effective protection against UVA/UVB and blue light. Get prescription glasses for driving at night if needed (see your eye doctor to determine if they would be helpful). Non-glare glasses. You can get non-glare glasses with a coating that have an anti-reflective coating. Look to the right. Look at the roadway's edge to the right to help you avoid the glare of oncoming headlights. Leave the driving till tomorrow. Drive only during the day. Even good lighting conditions at night such as found in a big city can be troublesome to someone with night blindness. Nutrient Discussion Vitamin A An early indicator of a deficiency in vitamin A may be night blindness.

A primary source of vitamin A is from animal sources, so diets such as a vegan diet without eggs, dairy, some fish, and/or organ meats may result in deficiency of vitamin A. The body makes vitamin A from beta-carotene found in yellow/orange vegetables and fruits, so if those are also not part of the diet, the risk is greater. Health care providers may recommend vitamin A (10,000 - 25,000 IU) daily in order to overcome deficiency. Beta-carotene can also be taken to reverse a deficiency, but it is not as effective as taking vitamin A directly. This is because beta-carotene is absorbed slowly by the body and slowly converted to vitamin A. Vitamin A palmitate is the best form of supplemental vitamin A. 15,000 IU is often the recommended daily dosage (check with your doctor or nutritionist). Note that vitamin A is contra-indicated for those suffering from Stargardt's disease . Zinc Night blindness may also be the result of a zinc deficiency1 which reduces the activity of an enzyme that helps the body produce vitamin A (retinol dehydrogenase). Research has shown that taking a zinc supplement is helpful.

Healthcare providers often recommend 15 - 30 mg of zinc daily for vision. At the same time long-term supplementation with zinc may lower copper levels, so 1 - 2 mg of copper daily is recommended to be taken with zinc for extended use. In general, the recommended supplement ratio is 15:1 zinc to copper. Consult your medical professional for correct dosage if you are supplementing with zinc. Bilberry Bilberry (a blueberry relative) grows in northern Europe and North America in the wild. It is rich in flavonoids, specifically bilberry which is rich in anthocyanosides, the elements in plants that provide color. These natural chemicals are potent antioxidants that, among other benefits, enhance the creation of the purple pigment (rhodopsin) that is used by the rods in the back of the eye to assist with night vision. Early research has shown that bilberry supplementation improves the speed of adapting to darkness for people who have poor night vision. Taurine Taurine supports the integrity of photoreceptors necessary for night vision2, 3, 7, in a process known as rhodopsin regeneration.

Rhodopsin is the primary pigment in photoreceptor rods and so vision in low-light conditions is supported. It also helps to protect cell membranes from free radical damage and helps to remove toxins and debris.4 Taurine is found in the photoreceptors at levels ten times greater than other amino acids.5 Night Blindness News Takes a moment to load ... Footnotes: 2. The role of taurine in osmotic, mechanical, and chemical protection of the retinal rod outer segments, Petrosian AM, Haroutounian JE, Advances in Experimental Medicine & Biology 1998 3. Taurine interactions with chick retinal membranes., Lopez-Colome AM et al, Journal of Neurochemistry, May, 1980 4. American Biologics, Research Institute, Mexico; Tijuana, B.C. Mexico, 1991 5. Taurine: Biological Update, Wright CE et al, Annual Review of Biochemistry, 1986 Night Blindess: Causes, Symptoms and Treatments Your message has been sent. OK We're sorry, an error occurred. We are unable to collect your feedback at this time. However, your feedback is important to us.

Please try again later. Close Night blindness is also called “nyctalopia.” It’s a type of vision impairment. People with night blindness experience poor vision at night or in dimly lit environments. Although the term “night blindness” implies that you can’t see at night, this isn’t the... Read more Night blindness is also called “nyctalopia.” It’s a type of vision impairment. People with night blindness experience poor vision at night or in dimly lit environments. Although the term “night blindness” implies that you can’t see at night, this isn’t the case. You may just have more difficulty seeing or driving in darkness. Some types of night blindness are treatable, and other types aren’t. See your doctor to determine the underlying cause of your vision impairment. Once you know the cause of the problem, you can take steps to correct your vision. What Are the Symptoms of Night Blindness? The sole symptom of night blindness is difficulty seeing in the dark. You’re more likely to experience night blindness when your eyes transition from a bright environment to an area of low light, such as when you leave a sunny sidewalk to enter a dimly lit restaurant.

You’re likely to experience poor vision when driving due to the intermittent brightness of headlights and streetlights on the road. What Causes Night Blindness? A number of eye conditions can cause night blindness, including: nearsightedness, or blurred vision when looking at faraway objects cataracts, or clouding of the eye’s lens retinitis pigmentosa, which occurs when dark pigment collects in your retina and creates tunnel vision Usher syndrome, which is a genetic condition that affects both hearing and vision Older adults have a greater risk of developing cataracts. Seniors are therefore more likely to have night blindness due to cataracts than children or young adults. In rare cases in the United States or in other parts of the world where nutritional diets may vary, vitamin A deficiency can also lead to night blindness. Vitamin A, also called retinol, plays a role in transforming nerve impulses into images in the retina. The retina is a light-sensitive area in the back of your eye. Patients who have pancreatic insufficiency, such as individuals with cystic fibrosis, have difficulty absorbing fat and are at a greater risk of having vitamin A deficiency because vitamin A is fat-soluble. This puts them at greater risk for developing night blindness.

People who have high blood glucose, or sugar, levels or diabetes also have a higher risk of developing eye diseases, such as cataracts. What Are the Treatment Options for Night Blindness? Your eye doctor will take a detailed medical history and examine your eyes to diagnose night blindness. You may also need to give a blood sample. Blood testing can measure your vitamin A and glucose levels. Night blindness caused by nearsightedness, cataracts, or vitamin A deficiency is treatable. Corrective lenses, such as eyeglasses or contacts, can improve nearsighted vision both during the day and at night. Let your doctor know if you still have trouble seeing in dim light even with corrective lenses. Cataracts Clouded portions of your eye’s lens are known as cataracts. Cataracts can be removed through surgery. Your surgeon will replace your cloudy lens with a clear, artificial lens. Your night blindness will improve significantly after surgery if cataracts are the underlying cause. Vitamin A Deficiency If your vitamin A levels are low, your doctor might recommend vitamin supplements. Take the supplements exactly as directed. Most people in developed nations don’t have vitamin A deficiency because they have access to proper nutrition.

Genetic Defect Genetic conditions that cause night blindness, such as retinitis pigmentosa, aren’t treatable. The genetic defect that causes pigment to build up in the retina doesn’t respond to corrective lenses or surgery. People who have this form of night blindness should avoid driving at night. How Can I Prevent Night Blindness? You can’t prevent night blindness that’s the result of birth defects or genetic conditions, such as Usher syndrome. You can, however, properly monitor your blood sugar levels and eat a balanced diet to make night blindness less likely. Eat foods rich in antioxidant vitamins and minerals, which may help prevent cataracts. Also, choose foods that contain high levels of vitamin A to reduce your risk of night blindness. Certain orange-colored foods are excellent sources of vitamin A, including: cantaloupes eggs What Is the Long-Term Outlook? If you have night blindness, you should take precautions to keep yourself and others safe. Refrain from driving at night as much as possible until the cause of your night blindness is determined and, if possible, treated. Arrange to do your driving during the day, or secure a ride from a friend, family member, or taxi service if you need to go somewhere at night.

Wearing sunglasses or a brimmed hat can also help reduce glare when you’re in a brightly lit environment, which can ease the transition into a darker environment. Written by Marissa Selner Night Blindness - Symptoms, Causes, Treatment Night Blindness Night Blindness Lack of vitamin A, first causes night blindness or inability to see in dim light. The mother herself can detect this condition when her child cannot see in late evenings or find her in a darkened room. Night blindness is due to impairment in dark adaptation. Unless vitamin A intake is increased, the condition may get worse, especially when children also suffer from diarrhea and other infections. Night blindness, officially known as nyctalopia, is inability to adapt to dark lighting conditions. When a person can't see well enough to discern contrasting images under low lighting conditions, blindness can result. The retina is well supplied with an important chemical substance called rhodopsin, or “visual purple”. Light falling on the retina brings about certain chemical changes in the rhodopsin and other substances present in the rods and cones. These changes occur very rapidly, but large quantities of vitamin A are needed to bring this about. If there is any marked deficiency of vitamin A, night blindness may occur.

This can usually be corrected by administering suitable amounts of vitamin A in the diet. Vitamin A deficiency also contributes to development of night blindness because of the nutrient's importance in maintaining the health of the eye's retina. One study reported in Journal of Nutrition (October 2004) effectively used tests detecting night blindness in pregnant women to determine whether mothers-to-be lacked vitamin A considered crucial for healthy development of their babies. Retinitis Pigmentosa is characterized by night blindness and black dotting of the fundus. The Optic Nerve becomes pale white, called Optic atrophy. Types of Night Blindness Congenital Stationary Night Blindness: This type of night blindness, present at birth, can have varying causes often related to inherited disorders. Progressive Night Blindness: As implied by the name, progressive night blindness continues to worsen. Causes can include factors such as vitamin A deficiency, disease, and toxic effects of drugs including quinine used to treat malaria and other conditions. Night Blindness as Complication of Obesity Surgery: Individuals who undergo obesity surgery altering the way the body absorbs food can develop night blindness, primarily because nutrients such as vitamin A may be lacking if patients fail to use nutritional supplements following surgery.

What are the causes of night blindness? Night blindness is due to a disorder of the cells in the retina that are responsible for vision in dim light. It has many causes, Lack of vitamin A, which can cause a disorder of the retina and make the eyes very dry Cataracts, which are cloudy areas in the lens of the eye Some forms of retinal degeneration, like retinitis pigmentosa Trouble adjusting from low levels of light to high levels of light Certain medications Some risk factors for night blindness include: Age: older people are more likely to have cataracts Diet: people who don’t eat enough sources of vitamin A, such as green leafy vegetables, eggs, and whole milk products (vitamin A deficiency is very rare in the US, but still occurs in certain less developed countries) Disorders that affect the ability of the body to absorb vitamin A: Liver disorders Surgery on the pancreas or liver Intestinal conditions What are the signs and symptoms of night blindness? Symptoms are difficulty or inability to see in low light or darkness. While driving, this may also occur a few seconds after the bright headlights of an oncoming car have passed. Associated symptoms include: Treatment for night blindness will depend upon its cause .

Treatments generally include: Taking vitamin A supplements Eating a diet with adequate amounts of Vitamin A may help prevent night blindness. Please submit your Suggestions / Tips here. We value your input.. Comment Script Vision - night blindness Information | Mount Sinai - New York Share Night blindness is poor vision at night or in dim light. The cornea allows light to enter the eye. As light passes through the eye the iris changes shape by expanding and letting more light through or constricting and letting less light through to change pupil size. The lens then changes shape to allow the accurate focusing of light on the retina. Light excites photoreceptors that eventually, through a chemical process, transmit nerve signals through the optic nerve to the brain. The brain processes these nerve impulses into sight. Considerations Night blindness may cause problems with driving at night. People with night blindness often have trouble seeing stars on a clear night or walking through a dark room, such as a movie theater. These problems are often worse just after a person is in a brightly lit environment. Milder cases may just have a harder time adapting to darkness. Causes Retinitis pigmentosa Home Care Take safety measures to prevent accidents in areas of low light.

Avoid driving a car at night, unless you get your eye doctor's approval. Vitamin A supplements may be helpful if you have a vitamin A deficiency. Ask your health care provider. When to Contact a Medical Professional It is important to have a complete eye exam to determine the cause, which may be treatable. Call your eye doctor if symptoms of night blindness persist or significantly affect your life. What to Expect at Your Office Visit Your provider will examine you and your eyes. The goal of the medical exam is to determine if the problem can be corrected (for example, with new glasses or cataract removal ), or if the problem is due to something that is not treatable. The doctor may ask you questions, including: How severe is the night blindness? When did your symptoms start? Did it occur suddenly or gradually? Does it happen all the time? Does using corrective lenses improve night vision? Have you ever had eye surgery? What medications do you use? How is your diet? night blindness facts, information, pictures | Encyclopedia.com articles about night blindness Several different conditions and diseases can cause night blindness. These include: Cataracts . This condition is characterized by a cloudiness of the lens. Congenital night blindness.

This is an inherited, stable disease in which persons suffer from night blindness. Recent advances in gene mapping have identified several mutations responsible for this form of night blindness. Liver conditions. Reduced night vision can be linked to poor liver functioning, due to a variety of conditions, which impairs vitamin A metabolism. Macular degeneration . Degeneration of the macula retinae, a specialized region of the retina, can cause night blindness. Retinitis pigmentosa. This is an inherited eye disease in which there is progressive deterioration of the photopigments of the photoreceptors, eventually resulting in blindness. The rods are destroyed early in the course of disease resulting in night blindness. Night blindness in children may be an early indicator of retinitis pigmentosa. Recent genetic studies have identified mutations related to retinitis pigmentosa on human chromosome 19. Vitamin A deficiency. Night blindness is commonly caused by a deficiency in vitamin A, in fact, it is one of the first indicators of vitamin A deficiency. Xerophthalmia. This condition is characterized by dryness of the conjunctiva (the membrane that covers the eyelids and exposed surface of the eye) and cornea, light sensitivity, and night blindness.

It is caused by vitamin A deficiency. Xerophthalmia rarely occurs in countries with adequate supplies of milk products. Zinc deficiency. Zinc is a mineral that is necessary for vitamin A to improve vision. Diagnosis Night blindness can be diagnosed and treated by an ophthalmologist, a physician who specializes in eye disorders. Opticians can only dispense eye glasses but optometrists may be able to diagnose and treat vision problems. Diagnosis begins with a detailed medical history regarding the night blindness. Questions include: severity of night blindness, when night blindness began, did it occur gradually or suddenly, etc. An eye examination is performed. A slit lamp examination, in which a narrow beam of intense light is used to examine the internal components of the eye, may also be performed. Additional testing may be performed based upon the results of these standard tests. Treatment Changes in vision should never be taken lightly. Because night blindness can be a symptom of a serious disease, an ophthalmologist should be consulted before a person embarks on self treatment. Persons who experience night blindness should not drive during the evening or at night. Additional safety precautions should be taken. Alternative remedies may be effective at reducing night blindness, particularly when caused by a vitamin A deficiency.

Food remedies and supplements Because night blindness can be caused by a vitamin A deficiency, supplementation with vitamin A, or eating foods rich in vitamin A, may help reduce symptoms. Vitamin A was found to slow the progression of retinitis pigmentosa. Foods rich in vitamin A include dairy products, egg yolks, fish liver oil, and liver. Pregnant women should consult a physician before taking vitamin A supplements because of the link between this vitamin and birth defects. Vitamin A in humans is primarily obtained by conversion of beta-carotene, a pigment found in fruits and vegetables. Food sources for beta-carotene include apricots, asparagus, broccoli, brussel sprouts, cantaloupe, carrots, cherries, kale, lettuce, mango, mustard greens, papaya, peaches, pumpkin, red cabbage, seaweed, spinach, sweet potatoes, watermelon, winter squash, and yams. Zinc is necessary to transport vitamin A from the liver to the retina, so zinc supplementation (up to 25 mg daily) may help improve night vision. Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) helps to increase rhodopsin levels and lines the photoreceptor cells of the retina.

DHA is converted from omega-3 fatty acids , both of which are found in certain fish oils. The suggested daily dose of DHA (from fish oils) is 500–1000 mg. Herbal remedies Herbals which may improve night vision include: bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus ) matrimony vine (Lycii fructus, kou chi tza) berries passionflower (Passiflora incarnata ) Queen Anne's lace (Daucus carota sativas ) rose (Rosa species) flower eye wash yellow dock (Rumex crispus ) leaves Colored light therapy One researcher found that some persons have reduced levels of photocurrent transmission (transmission of light signals from the eye to the brain) which can cause, among other things, night blindness. Colored light therapy , in which colored light stimulates the brain, can reduce night blindness caused by this photocurrent deficit. In colored light therapy, patients look at a device that cycles through 11 wave bands of color. Treatment involves 25–30 sessions over a period of four to six weeks. Allopathic treatment Night blindness caused by vitamin A deficiency will be treated with vitamin A supplements.

Night vision devices are available which collect and magnify tiny amounts of light to help persons with night blindness see as well as they can during daylight. Vitamin A supplementation may slow the progress of retinitis pigmentosa. There is no cure for retinitis pigmentosa or macular degeneration, but there are treatments, including laser surgery and the drug thalidomide, which slow down the growth of blood vessels. Cataracts require surgery. Expected results Vitamin A can effectively treat night blindness in persons who have a deficiency of this nutrient. Prevention Vitamin A may prevent night blindness and slow the progression of eye conditions, such as macular degeneration, which cause night blindness. Wearing sunglasses during the day can prevent eye damage. Resources PERIODICALS Ramser, J., G. Wen, Y. Demirci, et al. "A Complete Gene Catalogue of Human Xp11.4 Harboring Disease Loci for Diabetes Mellitus Type I, Mental Retardation and Retinal Disturbances." American Journal of Human Genetics 69 (October 2001): 655. Vithana, E. N., L. Abu-Safieh, M. J.

Allen, et al. "A Human Homologue of Yeast Pre mRNA-Splicing Gene, PRP31, Underlies Autosomal Dominant Retinitis Pigmentosa on Chromosome 19q13.4 (RP11)." American Journal of Human Genetics 69 (October 2001): 229. ORGANIZATIONS The Foundation Fighting Blindness. 11435 Cronhill Drive, Owings Mills, MD 21117-2220. (888) 394-3937. info@blindness.org < . OTHER Haas, Elston M. "Vitamin A." HealthWorld Online. [cited October 2002]. < . Belinda Rowland Night Vision Problems: Halos, Blurred Vision, and Night Blindness How Is It Treated? Do you have problems seeing at night? Millions of Americans do. You may just need glasses, especially if you’re nearsighted. On the other hand, it could mean that you have cataracts or other issues. If you’re afraid to hit the road after dark because you can’t see, let your doctor know. What Causes It?

A wide range of conditions -- from sun exposure to diabetes -- makes it hard to see at night: Cataracts . Your eye’s lens is right behind the pupil. As you age, cells grow and die inside it. That builds up debris and leads to cataracts. They don’t hurt, but they do get worse and slowly cloud your lens. The first symptom is often worse night vision . Because cataracts distort the light that comes into your eyes, you may see halos around lights -- again, mostly at night. Blurry vision is also common. Lack of vitamin A. It’s found in carrots and leafy vegetables. It helps keep the retina -- the back of your eye where images are focused -- healthy. Most Americans get enough vitamin A in their diets, but if you have a health issue that makes it hard for you to absorb nutrients (Crohn’s disease, celiac disease, gastric bypass), you might have night vision problems. Not enough zinc. Without it, vitamin A may not work as well as it should. The result: night blindness. Beef, poultry, beans, and nuts are rich sources. Most people in the U.S. get plenty of it from their food. Retinitis pigmentosa.

This rare genetic disorder affects young people, usually before age 30. A decline in night vision is often the earliest symptom. Some people lose all their sight. Others keep some vision. Sunlight exposure. If you think your night vision is worse after a trip to the beach, you’re probably right. Sustained bright sunlight can worsen night vision for up to two days. Always wear your sunglasses to avoid this. LASIK surgery problems. Complications after LASIK surgery are uncommon. But a few people have night vision problems after it. The most common complaints are glare and halos around objects, both of which distort vision. You may have symptoms during the day, too. They become more noticeable and bothersome, though, at night. The characteristics of your eyes may make you more prone to night vision problems after LASIK. They are easily identified, so ask your doctor to check to see if you’re at risk. Diabetes . It makes you more likely to have night vision problems. Over years, high blood sugar damages the blood vessels and nerves in your eyes, which leads to a condition called retinopathy. If you have trouble seeing in low light, either indoors or outside, talk to your doctor.

Continued How Is It Diagnosed? A simple exam and conversation at an eye doctor's office can show the cause of your night blindness. The doctor will use drops to open your eyes up wide (he’ll call this dilation). Then he’ll look into them with a slit-lamp, an upright microscope with a bright light on it. How Is It Treated? What you can do for night blindness depends on the cause. Cataracts are removed surgically. The doctor will replace your clouded natural lens with a clear artificial model known as an intraocular lens. Most people have much better vision afterward, but some still need glasses. Diabetic retinopathy is easy to prevent if you keep tight control of blood sugar levels with medicines and diet. One treatment uses a laser to destroy the tiny blood vessels that threaten your vision. This process, called panretinal photocoagulation, will preserve your overall sight but could reduce your night vision. Lack of vitamin A or zinc aren't common causes of night blindness. But it won’t hurt to eat foods rich in these nutrients if you have trouble seeing at night.

WebMD Medical Reference Reviewed by Alan Kozarsky, MD on January 24, 2016 Sources Health Benefits of Vitamin A or Retinol | Organic Facts Vitamin A Health Benefits of Vitamin A or Retinol Vitamin A is a very important nutrient. Retinal and retinol are referred to as preformed Vitamin A. It helps in increasing the body’s immunity to fight infections and keeps your eyes and skin moist. Vitamin A or retinol is a fat-soluble vitamin that plays an important role in ensuring healthy eyes and bone development. Its deficiency is the most common cause of blindness among children. It can prevent night blindness and dry eyes , while also ensuring clear vision. Important Sources of Vitamin A Fish liver oils, cream, egg yolk, beef liver, cheddar cheese , fortified milk , and butter products are rich sources of Vitamin A. Yellow or orange-colored fruits and vegetables that contain the pigment carotene are also top sources. Be sure to include food items such as sweet potato , carrots , broccoli , spinach , mango , pumpkin, tomato , oatmeal , apricot , peach , peas, papaya and collard greens in your daily diet to ensure a regular supply of vitamin A.

Vitamin A Deficiency Symptoms Some of the major deficiency symptoms of Vitamin A include keratinization of the skin, night blindness, a burning sensation or itching in the eyes, inflammation of the eyelids, xerophthalmia (dryness of the conjunctiva), dull lusterless hair dandruff, brittle nails that break easily, sexual disorders, and precancerous changes in the body tissues. A deficiency of this vitamin may also result in fatigue, insomnia and depression . Health Benefits of Vitamin A Vitamin A is essential for a healthy body and it has many beneficial properties , including those listed below. Improves Immunity: Vitamin A enhances the body’s immunity against infections by increasing the lymphocytic responses against disease-causing antigens. It keeps the mucus membranes moist to ensure better immunity and also enhances the activity of white blood cells. It not only prevents the germs from entering your body, but also helps to fight the infections once the germs gain entry into the body system, thereby ensuring a double core of protection. Ensures Healthy Eyes: Vitamin A can aid in improving vision. It enables your eyes to adjust to light changes, keeps the eyes moist, and also improves night vision. It can prevent many conditions like dry eyes as well.

It helps in the formation of visual purple in the eyes, which can improve the vision of weak eyes. It ensures a healthy retina and also prevents night blindness by increasing the adaptability of the human eye to both bright light and darkness. It can also significantly cut down the risks of cataracts and macular degeneration, which is commonly associated with aging. It ensures healthy and beautiful eyes. It is also thought to be beneficial for people suffering from glaucoma. Ensures Soft and Supple Skin: Vitamin A helps to keep your body free from free radicals and toxins, which might cause damage to your skin. It helps to keep the skin soft and supple by ensuring moisture retention, thereby preventing dryness, keratinization and skin conditions like psoriasis . Strong Bones and Teeth: This essential vitamin also strengthens the bones and teeth. Vitamin A helps in the formation of dentin, a layer of hard material just below the surface of the teeth, thereby enhancing its strength. Prevents Urinary Stones: Vitamin A prevents the formation of urinary calculi due to the formation of calcium phosphate. It also helps to keep the lining of the urinary tract in shape, thereby reducing the recurring chance of stones.

Prevents Muscular Dystrophy: By keeping the bones healthy and by retaining their shape, Vitamin A plays an essential role in ensuring proper muscle growth in children and growing teens, thereby preventing the chances of developing muscular dystrophy. Prevents Acne: Vitamin A helps to cut down excess sebum production, thereby reducing the risk of acne. It also reinforces the protective tissues of the skin, thereby enhancing the overall health and vitality of the skin surface. It is essential for the proper maintenance of the skin tissues and mucus membranes. It flushes out the toxins from your body and cleanses the system by virtue of its antioxidant properties. Prevents Certain Cancers : Vitamin A is also a powerful antioxidant, which can prevent certain forms of cancer. Repair and Replacement of Old Tissues: Vitamin A plays an important role in replacing old and worn out tissues with new ones, as well as in keeping your bones and teeth strong. Slows the Aging Process: Vitamin A is famous for its wrinkle-eliminating properties, which can reduce age spots and fine lines. It can slow down the aging process by enhancing the overall health of the skin. Measles : Deficiency of vitamin A may cause measles in children.

Intake of foods rich in this essential vitamin helps to relieve the fever and diarrhea caused by measles and aids in quick healing. Lowers Cholesterol: It lowers blood cholesterol levels , thereby protecting you against the serious risks of heart disease and stroke. Healthy Reproductive System: This Vitamin is widely known for aiding the health and functionality of the reproductive system. A Few Words of Caution: Vitamin A is required only in trace amounts and any excess quantity will be expelled by the body unabsorbed. Make sure to ensure a regular supply of the requisite quantity for best results. Its overdose can have detrimental symptoms such as blurred vision and nausea. Severe symptoms might include growth retardation, and an enlarged spleen and liver, among others.

Question: Which vitamin is known to prevent night-blindness?
Answer: Vitamin A