Do people regularly warn you that your clothes don’t match, even when they seem fine to you? Are you regularly frustrated by your inability to distinguish hues and shades that others can clearly see? If so, then you might be colorblind. If you have been wondering whether or not you are colorblind, here is some more information that may help you get any help you might need.
Colorblindness Versus Color Deficiency
Before discussing whether you might be colorblind, it’s important to properly define terms. Totally colorblind individuals see the world in shades of black and white. This is quite rare, though it does happen. What most people refer to as “colorblindness” refers to color deficiency. This occurs when someone is not able to see one of the three main colors well. The only way to determine for certain if you are color deficient is with a test at your eye doctor, which typically is the Ishihara color test. You may be able to find versions of this online but remember that every screen has a slightly different color cast, so it may not be completely accurate.
What Causes Color Deficiency?
People have three types of cones in their eyes that can see light colors. In normal vision, all three work together to ensure a full range of hues can be detected. People with colorblindness have problems with one or more of the cone types, which reduces their sensitivity to either red, green or blue light. Most people who have problems will have problems with red or green light detection, which has led to the term red-green color blindness. These individuals have trouble distinguishing between reds, greens, browns and oranges. Sometimes they also cannot distinguish between blues and purples.
The culprit for the condition is typically genetics. A gene located on the X-chromosomes can cause the colorblindness trait to pass from parent to child. Injuries or eye diseases as well as medications can also cause a problem. Some people develop colorblindness as they age.
Signs of Colorblindness
While the only way to determine if you are colorblind is with a test from your doctor, there are certain signs that may indicate a problem. If you are struggling to distinguish between colors or cannot see different shades of the same color, you likely have colorblindness. Often your problem is something others will notice before you do, as the way you see is normal to you. Being unable to pick a red ball out of green grass, having trouble matching clothing consistently or struggling to distinguish between different colors on street signs can be signs of colorblindness.
What Can Be Done for Colorblindness?
Colorblindness has no cure, but that doesn’t mean you cannot learn to live with your condition. Using special filters that correctly combat your specific color deficiency is one of the most effective ways to treat color blindness, allowing you to see a fuller range of colors, pass vision screenings, drive safely and more. Dr. Thomas Azman of Colormax offers a specialized ColorCorrection System that will create personalized filters to enhance color vision for people who are colorblind. If you suspect that you might be colorblind, make an appointment with Colormax to discuss your condition and potential treatments with Dr. Azman, and learn how the ColorCorrection System can help you see colors more clearly.