Vision, night blindness

Alternative names:

night blindness; nyctalopia

Definition:

Poor vision at night or in dim light.

Considerations:

Night blindness can cause problems with driving in the evening or at night. Consult your health care provider or eye doctor.

Common causes:

• vitamin A deficiency
• poor adaptation to darkness (not caused by any disease)
  • often accompanied by myopia (nearsightedness)

• cataracts
• birth defect
• retinitis pigmentosa

Note: There may be other causes of night blindness. This list is not all inclusive, and the causes are not presented in order of likelihood. The causes of this symptom can include unlikely diseases and medications. Furthermore, the causes may vary based on age and gender of the affected person, as well as on the specific characteristics of the symptom such as time course, aggravating factors, relieving factors, and associated complaints. Use the Symptom Analysis option to explore the possible explanations for night blindness, occurring alone or in combination with other problems.