Progressive vision loss develops gradually over weeks to years. It is often due to chronic eye disease or systemic conditions affecting ocular structures.
Underlying Diseases
Cataract, glaucoma, age‑related macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, inherited retinal dystrophies, and uncorrected refractive error are frequent causes. Neurological disorders and optic neuropathies can also progress over time.
- Symptoms may be subtle initially and noticed only in certain tasks
- Peripheral field loss from glaucoma is often unrecognised without testing
- Central blur and distortion are typical of macular disease
- Poor systemic control of diabetes or hypertension accelerates some conditions
Role of Monitoring
Regular eye examinations and appropriate imaging detect progression before severe loss occurs. Many chronic diseases respond well to timely treatment.
- Screening programmes are vital for at‑risk groups
- Patients should report any step‑change in symptoms between routine visits
- Adherence to treatment and follow‑up schedules improves long‑term outcomes
- Low‑vision services support those with established deficits
