Color vision deficiency is the inability to see certain shades of colors and having trouble telling the difference between various colors.  It is rare to be completely colorblind and only see in black and white, or shades of gray.  Males are genetically more likely to have color vision problems because the genes responsible for good color vision are on the X chromosome.  Males only have one X chromosome, while females have two, giving them more genes for color perception.  The most common deficiency is the ability to discriminate between shades of red and green.  Next is the ability to tell the difference between blue and yellow.  Most vision deficiencies are inherited and can affect both eyes.  Certain eye injuries and disease (i.e. cataracts) can affect the ability of the eyes to see color.  It should be of concern if color vision suddenly changes.

There is no real treatment or cure for inherited color vision deficiency.  Color vision can usually be restored in conditions such as cataracts.  The only real disability associated with color vision problems is in certain professions that require normal color vision (i.e. electrician, pilot, etc.)

Dr. Carney is available for all your eye care needs by appointment at Welch/Wallace Laser Center by calling (318) 448-0221.