The word "hemeralopia" refers to a condition where an individual experiences difficulty in seeing in bright light or during the day. The word is spelled using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) as /ˌhɛmərəˈloʊpiə/. It comes from the Greek words "hemera" meaning day and "alops" meaning blind. The phonetic transcription of the word shows that the stress of the word falls on the third syllable, 'LOP'. Hemeralopia is relatively rare but can be caused by a number of different factors, including vitamin A deficiency, cataracts or certain medications.
Hemeralopia is a medical term that refers to a condition characterized by impaired vision in bright light or during the day. Also known as day blindness, it is the opposite of night blindness, which is the inability to see clearly in dim or low-light environments. Hemeralopia typically occurs due to an abnormality in the retina or visual pathway, causing difficulties with visual perception in well-lit surroundings.
Individuals with hemeralopia experience various symptoms when exposed to bright light, such as glare, discomfort, or blurry vision. Reading, writing, or performing tasks that require detailed vision can be particularly challenging under these conditions. The condition can significantly impact a person's quality of life, as it limits their ability to function adequately during daylight hours.
Hemeralopia can be caused by several factors, including inherited genetic mutations, vitamin A deficiency, certain medications or drugs, and underlying eye conditions such as retinitis pigmentosa or cataracts. Treatment options for hemeralopia generally focus on managing the symptoms and addressing the underlying cause if possible. This may involve wearing tinted lenses or sunglasses to reduce the amount of light entering the eye, or addressing any nutritional deficiencies through dietary changes or supplements.
Overall, hemeralopia is a condition that affects daytime vision, resulting in reduced visual acuity, discomfort, and limitations in bright-light environments. It is essential for individuals experiencing these symptoms to consult with an eye care professional for proper diagnosis and appropriate management strategies.
1. Day-blindness, inability to see as distinctly in a bright light as in a dim one. 2. Often incorrectly used to denote night-blindness, or nyctalopia.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
A disease in the eye by which a person is only able to see in broad daylight.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "hemeralopia" has its roots in Greek. It is derived from the Greek words "hemera" meaning "day" and "lopē" meaning "blindness".