Colour Blindness: Can It Be Corrected?

How to Test for Colour Blindness

How to Test for Colour Blindness If you struggle to differentiate certain colours, you may wonder how to determine if you're colourblind. The most reliable way is to take a test for colour blindness.

The most common test is the Ishihara colour blindness test, which consists of a series of plates filled with dots in various colours. Each plate contains a number that is visible only to people with normal colour vision, but the number may be hidden for those who are colourblind. These tests can help you determine if you are colourblind, but they are not always 100% accurate.

The most common test is the Ishihara colour blindness test, which uses plates filled with coloured dots. These dots form numbers that are easily visible to those with normal colour vision but may be difficult or impossible to see for individuals with colour blindness. Online versions of the Ishihara test exist, but they may not always be accurate due to screen variations and lighting conditions

For the most accurate diagnosis, an optometrist can conduct a comprehensive eye exam, which includes:

• The Ishihara test in a controlled clinical setting for reliable results.
• The Farnsworth-Munsell 100 Hue Test, which assesses your ability to distinguish colour variations.
• Other specialized colour arrangement tests for a more detailed analysis of colour vision deficiency.

While an online test for colour blindness can give you a general idea, only an eye exam with an optometrist can provide a definitive diagnosis.

What Causes Colour Blindness?

Colour blindness occurs due to abnormalities in photopigments—light-sensitive proteins in the retina's cone cells responsible for colour detection. These defects are typically genetic, affecting how the eyes perceive specific colours.

The most common form is red-green colour blindness, which impacts a significant portion of the population. Less common types include blue-yellow colour blindness and total colour blindness (where no colours are distinguishable).

Can Colour Blindness Get Worse or Go Away on Its Own?

If you’ve been diagnosed with colour blindness, you may wonder: Can colour blindness get worse? The answer depends on the type of colour blindness you have.

The most common type—inherited colour blindness—remains stable throughout life. This means it does not improve or worsen naturally over time. However, colour vision changes can occur due to other factors, including:

• Age-related vision changes
• Certain health conditions, such as diabetes or glaucoma
• Eye injuries or exposure to certain medications

If you notice changes in your colour vision, it’s important to schedule an eye exam with an optometrist to determine the cause and explore possible solutions

Can Colour Blindness Be Corrected?

There is no cure for genetic colour blindness, but there are ways to manage the condition. One of the most effective options for people with red-green colour blindness is colour blindness glasses.

These glasses use special filters to enhance the perception of certain colours, making it easier to differentiate between shades that would otherwise appear similar. For example, tinted lenses—often red or blue—can help people with red-green colour blindness see more contrast between these hues.

How Do Colour Blindness Glasses Work?

The technology behind colour blindness glasses involves specially designed lenses that filter specific wavelengths of light. This enhances the contrast between problematic colours, making them easier to distinguish.

These glasses can be particularly useful for tasks such as:

• Driving, where colour recognition is essential for traffic signals
• Reading colour-coded charts or maps
• Daily activities, such as picking out clothing

Another option is contact lenses for colour blindness, which work similarly to glasses by filtering light and improving colour differentiation. While these solutions do not cure colour blindness, they can help improve colour perception in many situations. If you're unsure which option is best for you, an optometrist can provide expert recommendations based on your specific needs.

Can Colour Blindness Be Corrected with Surgery or Medication?

Currently, there is no surgical procedure or medication that can cure colour blindness. However, ongoing research is exploring potential treatments, including:

• Gene therapy, which aims to correct colour vision deficiencies at a genetic level
• Advanced optical technologies, which could enhance colour perception

These treatments are still in the research phase and are not yet widely available.

For now, the most effective ways to manage colour blindness include:

• Specialized glasses or contact lenses
• Adaptation strategies, such as colour-coding tools and apps
• Regular eye exams with an optometrist to monitor any changes in vision

How to Live with Colour Blindness

Although there is no cure for colour blindness, many people with the condition lead full and active lives. Here are some practical tips you can use to make your day easier:

• Use colour filters & apps: Using colour-coding tools, apps, or software can help you distinguish colours in daily tasks.
• Label items: Mark clothing, household items, or work materials to help identify colours more easily.
• Choose contrasting colours: When selecting clothing or accessories, opt for high-contrast combinations to improve visibility.

If you're unsure about your colour vision or want to explore treatment options such as colour blindness glasses, schedule an appointment with our optometrist. A professional eye exam with Dr. Ronald Strohan can help determine the most suitable solutions for your unique needs.