Colour blindness

What is Colour blindness?

Color blindness arises from the incapacity to differentiate between various colors. This eye condition results from a deficiency of color-sensitive pigment in the cone-shaped cells of the retina, the light-sensitive ‘screen’ located at the back of the eye. The majority of cases are hereditary and present from birth; roughly 1 in 12 men and 1 in 20 women experience color blindness.

Coming to terms with the realization of impaired vision can prove challenging. Finding reassurance in the knowledge that others share similar experiences can offer support. Many individuals, whether recently diagnosed or having coped with color blindness for years, navigate comparable circumstances.

If you experience poor vision as a result, then there are devices available to help with tasks that people have difficulty with. These aids can provide support with tasks that require vision and can help you continue to lead a full and independent life.

Blindness to colour is a gender-related condition caused by absent or damaged genes on the X chromosome. Because men have only one X chromosome, they are more likely to become colour blind than women.

In some cases, the eye condition may be acquired rather than congenital. This is often due to another eye condition or trauma to the eye. Eye conditions that can cause colour blindness include glaucoma, macular degeneration, cataracts and diabetic retinopathy.

This eye condition can be described as complete or partial, with complete being less common than partial. There are two main types:

• red-green colour blindness: difficulty distinguishing between red and green
• blue-yellow colour blindness: difficulty distinguishing between blue and yellow

What can one expect?

There is no cure. Certain types of tinted filters or lenses can help differentiate between certain colours. We recommend discussing the options with your eye specialist.

More information

Extensive information is available. This information is intended to inform you about the most important aspects of this eye condition and is not intended to replace the information you receive from your doctor or eye specialist.