Alternative Names
Color deficiency; Blindness – color
Definition of Color blindness
Color blindness is the inability to see certain colors in the usual way.
Causes, incidence, and risk factors
Color blindness occurs when there is a problem with the color-sensing materials (pigments) in certain nerve cells of the eye. These cells are called cones. They are found in the retina, the light-sensitive layer of tissue at the back of the inner eye.
Symptoms
Symptoms vary from person to person, but may include:
Signs and tests
Your doctor or eye specialist can check your color vision in several ways. Testing for color blindness is commonly done during an eye exam.
Treatment
There is no known treatment.
Expectations (prognosis)
Color blindness is a life-long condition. Most persons are able to adjust without difficulty or disability.
Review
Paul B. Griggs, MD, Department of Ophthalmology, Virginia Mason Medical Center, Seattle, WA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc. – 4/13/2009
