glaucoma

[nsensitiv]

when assessing the lighting for a patient with glaucoma, what is the best lighting to use

[Michael J Kutryb, MD]

Thanks you guys.  I dont' know exactly how to answer your question other than generally the more light the better as most patients with visual disabilities will tell you.

MJK MD

[berrywoo]

Forgot to add, if you're looking for a low vision specialist in your area try calling your local commission/services for the blind, or lion's club. Or better yet get a referral from your ophthalmologist as s/he should be familiar with who's who in low vision in your city/town.

[berrywoo]

What sort of lighting assessment, (ie, task lighting, general ambient lighting)? Since most ophthalmologists and even many optometrists don't conduct lighting evaluations, I'm assuming you went to some sort of low vision center, where CLVT's, CVRT's, etc, and a low vision doctor (usually, an O.D.) have examined you. If that's not the case than you should consider seeking out such services, if you're having issues with lighting.

Generally, the guidelines for lighting is to find the best light that is bright enough to help you see clearly without glare issues. There is no "best" lighting for any specific eye condition since everyone is very different. This holds true for glaucoma, as some patients, due to medications and other treatments, may be extremely light sensitive, while other glaucoma patients, such as those who have fairly advanced stages, will require a lot more lighting in order to see and complain of things being "too dark". Again, consider a low vision evaluation, (even if you're vision is currently 20/20 and field loss is marginal) because those in this field will be best able to work with you and give the tools, and guidance you need to achieve your goals (most can do lighting evaluations in your home and offer you suggestions about ways to improve lighting and minimize glare that are customized to fit your needs, and budget)