OVERVIEW

Blindness or visual impairment is characterised by the inability to see, and can be complete or partial. It can be due to neurological or physiological factors, and either present at birth or caused by, for example, accidents or injuries to the eye, diabetes, glaucoma and macular degeneration.

Symptoms

Visual impairment

• Reduction in vision
• Blurring/distortion in vision
• Eye pain

The above symptoms can be symptoms for conditions such as glaucoma, dry eye syndrome, cataracts or macular degeneration. If you have any of the above symptoms, consult your general practitioner.

VIDEOS

RESOURCES & SUPPORT

Local

Royal New Zealand Foundation of the Blind
Association of Blind Citizens of New Zealand

International

NHS – Visual Impairment
Foundation Fighting Blindness
National Blind Children's Society
RNIB UK

RESEARCH

British Medical Journal
Journal of the American Medical Association
The Lancet

FORUMS

RNIB – Discussion Board

DISCLAIMER
The information above is of a general nature and is designed to provide you with an overview of the topic, with links to local and international resources that may be of interest.  We do our best to ensure that this information is accurate and up to date.

You should always, however, seek specific professional medical advice, treatment and care appropriate to you, and as such we strongly recommend you consult with your general practitioner first.

Updated April 2012