A number of eye conditions can cause night blindness, including nearsightedness-blurred vision when looking at faraway objects
cataracts-a clouding of the eye's lens. Retinitis pigmentosa-when dark pigment collects in your retina, creating tunnel vision.Usher syndrome-a genetic condition that affects both hearing and vision. Older adults have a greater risk of developing cataracts. Seniors are therefore more likely to suffer from night blindness than children or young adults. In rare cases, vitamin A deficiency can also lead to night blindness. Vitamin A, also called retinol, plays a role in transforming nerve impulses into images in the retina. The retina is a light-sensitive area in the back of your eye.Patients who have diseases of the liver or pancreas sometimes cannot absorb large amounts of vitamin A. So, they are at greater risk for developing night blindness, according to Boston's Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (BIDMC).Patients who have high blood glucose (sugar) levels or diabetes also have a higher risk of developing eye diseases, such as cataracts.
