Can Parkinson's Disease Cause Blindness?
Visual impairments are frequently observed in patients with Parkinson's disease (PD) [1]. However, such impairments are typically not severe enough to cause total blindness.
Common visual disturbances that arise in patients with Parkinson's include diminished visual acuity (the ability to discern shapes and details), reduced contrast sensitivity (the ability to detect subtle patterns of light and dark), poor colour discrimination, and double or blurred vision [2].
Retinal diseases and visual abnormalities are more common among patients with Parkinson's disease compared to the general population. For example, one study found that 57% of subjects with PD experienced one or more ophthalmologic disturbances, compared to only 14% of healthy controls [3].
Even though visual impairments are common in Parkinson's disease and can pose significant difficulties in activities of daily living, it is important to remember that the visual disturbances associated with Parkinson's typically do not progress to cause total blindness. Moreover, symptoms can often be managed through appropriate treatment and regular eye examinations [4].