fbpx
Tunnel Vision2022-03-07T10:38:40+00:00

Tunnel vision is the loss of peripheral vision

This could be a sign of glaucoma, and should be treated straight away

Tunnel vision is the loss of peripheral vision

This could be a sign of glaucoma, and should be treated straight away

Left untreated, tunnel vision can lead to blindness

Discover more about this symptom and next steps

Tunnel vision incidence / prevalence

Tunnel vision is a visual field defect that involves a loss of peripheral vision. A loss of peripheral vision could be a sign of glaucoma, and should be treated straight away.

There are many different causes, but some, like glaucoma, can eventually lead to blindness if left untreated. You should therefore see an eye doctor straight away if you suffer from tunnel vision.

There are many different causes of tunnel vision, and some are more serious than others.

Damage to the optic nerve

The optic nerve transmits signals from the eyes to the brain. Any damage to the optic nerve, either through trauma or disease, can cause tunnel vision to occur. Glaucoma is a fairly common eye disease that can damage the optic nerve by increasing the pressure inside the eye. Glaucoma is associated with a slow but steady loss of peripheral vision, and can lead to blindness if left untreated.

Damage to the retina

Damage to the peripheral areas of your retina can affect your peripheral vision. A condition called retinitis pigmentosa is known to cause tunnel vision by damaging the retina, but it is quite rare.

Damage to the brain

A stroke or loss of blood to the brain can also result in a loss of peripheral vision.

Temporary tunnel vision

Sometimes, tunnel vision can occur temporarily when the body produces high levels of adrenalin. Extreme panic, stress or anger can all cause temporary tunnel vision. Alcohol and drugs have also been shown to have an effect on peripheral vision. In these cases, normal vision will usually return without treatment.

Tunnel vision occurs when your peripheral or ‘side’ vision, deteriorates, or is lost altogether. The result is that you may only be able to see things in a small circle directly in front of your eyes, as if you were looking down a tunnel.

It may sound like an obvious symptom but many people don’t realise they have tunnel vision when the loss of peripheral vision occurs over some time. That’s why it’s important to get regular check-ups from an eye specialist, especially for those over 40 who are more at risk of developing glaucoma.

Treatment depends on the cause. In the case of glaucoma, early detection and treatment can halt the loss of peripheral vision altogether, In any case, it’s important to be seen by an expert as soon as possible if you have tunnel vision.

Gain relief from a worrying eye condition

We understand that any issue with your eyes can be a weight on your shoulders. Give us a call to book your appointment today, and we’ll help you get to the bottom of your issue and put your mind at ease.

Gain relief from a worrying eye condition

We understand that any issue with your eyes can be a weight on your shoulders. Give us a call to book your appointment today, and we’ll help you get to the bottom of your issue and put your mind at ease.

Does poor vision or the limitations of glasses or contact lenses hold you back?

Choose the option below that sounds most like you to discover your best solution

Do your glasses and contacts get in your way or make you feel uncomfortable?

Do you feel a bit meh when wearing glasses or when your eyes feel dry from your contact lenses? Perhaps poor vision and the inconvenience of glasses and contacts stops you from participating in certain activities you enjoy or even simply enjoying the beautiful natural landscapes around you. Laser eye surgery could be the answer.

LEARN MORE

Are you struggling with the hassle of reading glasses?

Whether you’re new to reading glasses or have worn them your whole life, it doesn’t take long to notice how annoying they can sometimes be. Before you know it, there’s a pair of readers everywhere you look; around your neck, in your pockets, and in every room of the house. But when you need them, they’re nowhere to be found. Restore your vision (and avoid future cataract surgery too).

LEARN MORE

Is your vision becoming cloudy, blurry and dull or have you been diagnosed with cataracts?

When your glasses are no longer effective, your quality of life is impacted. At first, you might be able to muddle by. But as your vision deteriorates, your ability to function as you normally would is needlessly compromised. With modern cataract surgery, you have the choice to quickly and easily improve your vision (and even reduce your dependence on glasses).

LEARN MORE

Gain relief from a worrying eye condition

We understand that any issue with your eyes can be a weight on your shoulders. Book an appointment today, and we’ll help you get to the bottom of your issue and put your mind at ease.

Gain relief from a worrying eye condition

We understand that any issue with your eyes can be a weight on your shoulders. Book an appointment today, and we’ll help you get to the bottom of your issue and put your mind at ease.

Book an appointment
Gain visual freedom in 3 easy steps

Eye treatment options can be confusing. We’ve made the journey as straightforward as can be

1. Get in touch

The first step is to call us so we can answer any questions we can on the phone. Give our friendly team a call on 0800 99 2020 or request a call back from us.

2. We’ll meet

At your consultation, we’ll diagnose your issues, answer your questions and give you a clear recommendation based on your needs. You’ll confidently leave with a clear understanding of your treatment options.

3. Enjoy clarity

After treatment, people often tell us how pleased they were that they took action when they did. They’re often so glad that they reached out so that we could address their concerns and help them resolve their troublesome eye condition.

Watch the best patient education videos on eye treatment in New Zealand

Get a quick overview of everything you need to know about gaining visual freedom

Additional resources on treating tunnel vision

Learn more about treating tunnel vision from authoritative sources.

Peripheral vision problems mean that you don’t have a normal, wide-angle field of vision, even though your central vision may be fine.

Moderate and severe cases of peripheral vision loss create the sensation of seeing through a narrow tube, a condition commonly referred to as “tunnel vision.”

Symptoms of peripheral vision loss also can include difficulty seeing in dim light and decreased ability to navigate while you are walking.

Click here to read more.

Note: These links will take you off our website

OUR LOCATIONS
Our Locations
OUR POPULAR PROCEDURES
TAKE A STEP TO FREEDOM

Discover if you could be free from the hassle of glasses and contacts.

Take the first step by getting your free laser suitability assessment to check if your eyes are suitable and which treatment option is right for your eyes.

© Eye Institute | Privacy and Cookie Policy | Website by LiveseySolar

Go to Top