Night vision problems refer to difficulty seeing in dim light, especially when driving or moving around at dusk. Several structures of the eye and visual system can contribute.
Underlying mechanisms
Short-sightedness, early cataract and dry eye reduce contrast and increase glare from headlights. Disorders of the retina, including inherited retinal disease and advanced diabetic retinopathy, can affect the rod cells responsible for low-light vision.
- Vitamin A deficiency is a rare but important reversible cause
- Glare and halos often accompany cataract-related night problems
- Certain medicines and neurological conditions may worsen dark adaptation
- Full eye examination and imaging help determine the main contributor
