Peripheral vision loss, also known as tunnel vision, occurs when you can only see objects directly in front of you. It is a challenging condition that can affect daily activities like driving or even walking steadily. Fortunately, specialized eyewear called side vision awareness glasses, which I demonstrate in this video called “Side Vision Awareness Glasses for One-Sided Visual Field Loss,” provide a new way to help those affected by peripheral vision loss navigate the world more easily.
Understanding Peripheral Vision Loss
Peripheral vision refers to the ability to see objects outside your direct line of sight—it is what you can see to each side, or up and down, without moving your head. Individuals who lack side vision may describe the experience as seeing the world through a tube or tunnel.
Peripheral vision loss can range in severity. It can affect one or both eyes, and the condition may be temporary or permanent. Some experience what is known as hemianopia, which is the loss of vision in one half of the visual field. Other individuals, such as my patient in the above-mentioned video, may have quadrantopia, or a quarter loss of the visual field. The loss of side vision can, in some instances, be a gradual process, and individuals may not recognize the impairment until it affects their ability to complete daily tasks. In other instances, tunnel vision may happen suddenly as a result of a medical event.
Common Causes of Peripheral Vision Loss
When peripheral vision loss occurs suddenly, it is easier to recognize that there is a problem. When the vision loss happens over a longer period of time, symptoms are easier to overlook at first. It is important to promptly report any changes in vision to your optometrist, as an earlier intervention can promote better management of the issue.
Tunnel vision is not a condition in itself; rather, it is a symptom of an existing medical concern that causes damage in the eye or brain. Common causes of side vision loss include:
- Glaucoma: This condition increases pressure within the eye, resulting in damage to the optic nerve.
- Stroke or traumatic brain injury (TBI): Such medical events can damage the parts of the brain that process visual information.
- Retinitis pigmentosa: Retinitis pigmentosa is a genetic disorder that can gradually lead to tunnel vision.
- Retinal detachment: A retinal detachment involves the separation of the retina from the back of the eye, causing a disruption in the visual field.
What Are Side Vision Awareness Glasses?
Side vision awareness glasses (SVAGs) are specialized eyewear that improve peripheral vision loss by utilizing prisms or mirrors to shift visual information from the sides into the central line of vision. As I demonstrate in the video, these glasses feature a line down the center of the lens, with the prism on the outer portion of the lens. This prism is like a “side-view mirror” which expands the wearer’s field of view and makes it easier to function in daily life.
Some individuals with peripheral vision loss utilize a Fresnel press-on, or “button-style,” lens to improve the field of vision. While a great option, side vision awareness glasses, in comparison, are considered more effective and user-friendly in that SVAGs provide greater contrast sensitivity, a wider viewing area, and a smoother transition between central vision and the assisted peripheral vision viewing area. My patients who have experienced both alternatives report greater clarity and confidence with the side vision awareness glasses.
How Side Vision Awareness Glasses are Fitted
Side vision awareness glasses are customized to each person’s vision loss needs. The fitting process begins with a comprehensive eye examination, followed by a trial of various lenses to determine the best fit. My “kit” includes Fresnel lenses, prisms “on a stick” in various powers, and even a pair of demo glasses to show patients what the eyewear will look like. After we settle on the best configuration for a patient’s needs, the glasses get custom-made to ensure a comfortable fit and maximum effectiveness. We have regular follow-up appointments to ensure the glasses continue to meet the wearer’s needs.
The Benefits of Side Vision Awareness Glasses in Daily Life
By expanding the field of vision, side vision awareness glasses provide many benefits, including:
- Increased safety: Using SVAGs allows wearers to be more aware of their surroundings, reducing the risk of bumping into obstacles or other people.
- Ease with daily tasks: Like my patient in the video, many people find they can return to activities they once enjoyed, but had become unable to do, such as reading, cooking, or using digital devices.
- Improved awareness: Individuals are able to recognize people approaching from the sides, which makes social interactions more natural and comfortable.
In general, side vision awareness glasses boost confidence and independence, allowing wearers to navigate daily life with greater ease.
Are Side Vision Glasses Right for You?
If you deal with peripheral vision loss due to a stroke, traumatic brain injury, or other medical condition, side vision awareness glasses may be a good choice for you. The first step is to talk with your optometrist or consult a low vision doctor near you. If you are in the Bloomington, Clarksville, or Evansville, Indiana areas, Midwest Low Vision can help you regain confidence and independence with custom solutions for your vision needs. Give us a call at 877-577-2040 or contact us on our website.