Faded vision is the sense that colours and contrast have become weaker or washed out. It often points to lens, macular, or optic nerve disease.
Common Causes
Cataracts yellow and desaturate colours, while optic neuritis and chronic optic neuropathies reduce colour vividness, especially reds. Macular degeneration, macular oedema, and diffuse retinal disease can also make scenes appear dull and less crisp.
- Patients may notice clothes or traffic lights looking less bright than before
- One eye may see more faded colours than the other in optic nerve disease
- Glaucoma can subtly reduce contrast even with good acuity
- Some medications and toxins specifically affect colour and contrast perception
Clinical Work-up
Colour vision tests, contrast sensitivity measures, and structural imaging help locate the problem. Early diagnosis supports timely treatment and monitoring.
- Sudden unilateral colour fade suggests optic neuritis and needs urgent review
- Cataract surgery can restore brightness and colour in lens-related cases
- Ongoing systemic and ocular monitoring is vital in progressive diseases
- Adjusting lighting and using high-contrast materials can aid daily tasks
