3 Treatments for Ocular Albinism
Ocular albinism refers to lack of pigment (or color) in a person’s iris, and it’s usually detected in early childhood (often at birth). While the name might refer to the physical characteristics of a child, the underlying concern is that the disorder will impact how the retina perceives light.
The most common symptoms of ocular albinism include decreased color vision, blurry/double vision, or even low-vision. Whether you know someone who has the condition or have a family history of the disorder, we’ll look at the common treatments.
1. Specialty Glasses
This is the most common form of treatment, largely due to advances in ocular technology. Anything from color blind glasses to telemicroscopic glasses can help the patient see more clearly and better adjust to their surroundings. For better results, it’s important to see an eye doctor in Wilmington, NC who understands this condition and its usual paths of progression.
2. Better Sun Protection
Albinism impacts the eye’s protective barriers against the sun, so it’s important to find eyewear that keeps the child’s eyes safe from damaging UV rays. People with normal vision can handle moderate amounts of sunshine without undue risk to their visual health, but those with ocular albinism may inadvertently compromise the vision they have left.
3. See the Right Medical Professional
While there may not be a cure for ocular albinism in Wilmington, NC, there are different approaches to the disorder. For example, some doctors might recommend surgery to fix a child’s cross-eyes (another common symptom of the disorder). A reputable doctor can give you balanced advice about how each treatment will impact your child’s quality of life.
At The Low Vision Centers of North Carolina, our eye doctors understand that this disorder can be intimidating. It’s why we’re here to make recommendations and referrals that work for you and your family.