Colour vision deficiency
Causes ofcolour vision deficiency
Inthe vast majorityof cases, colour vision deficiency iscaused by a genetic fault passed on to a child by their parents (see below).
It occurs because some of thecolour sensitive cells in the eyes, called cones, are either missing or don't work properly.
Occasionally,colour vision deficiencymay develop later in life asthe result of:
- an underlyinghealth condition such as diabetes , Glaucoma , age-related macular degeneration and multiple sclerosis
- a side effect of a medication including digoxin, ethambutol, chloroquine, hydroxychloroqine, phenytoin and sildenafil
- exposure to harmful chemicals such ascarbon disulphide and styrene
Many people also find it more difficult to distinguish between colours as they get older.This is normally just a natural part of the ageing process.
Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 21 Dec 2018
Introduction
Find about colour vision deficiency and colour blindness, including how to get tested, why it happens, what problems it may cause and what can be done about it.
Types and symptoms of colour vision deficiency
Most peoplewithcolour vision deficiency have difficulty distinguishing between shades of red, yellow and green. This is known as "red-green" colour vision deficiency.It's a common problem that affect
T ests for colour vision deficiency
Ask for a colour vision test at an opticians if you think you or your child may have a colour vision deficiency particularly if it started suddenly or is getting worse. Colour vision tests don't usua
Issues for people with a colour vision deficiency
Colour vision deficiency isn't usually anything to be concerned about. Most people get used to it over time, it won't normally get any worse and it's rarely a sign of anything serious. However, it ca
Treating and living with a colour vision deficiency
There's currently no cure for inherited colour vision deficiency, although most people are able to adapt to it over time. It may help to: tell your child's school if they have problems with their c
Causes ofcolour vision deficiency
Inthe vast majorityof cases, colour vision deficiency iscaused by a genetic fault passed on to a child by their parents (see below). It occurs because some of thecolour sensitive cells in the eyes, c
How colour vision deficiency is inherited
Thegenetic fault that usually causes colour vision deficiencyis passed on in what's known as an X-linked inheritance pattern . This means: it mainly affects boys, but can affect girls in some cases
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