Color Blindness

Eye care providers diagnose color blindness using several different tests.

The Ishihara test is the most common test eye care providers use to diagnose red-green color blindness. For this test, a provider shows you a series of color plates. Each plate contains a pattern of small dots. Among those dots, there’s a number (or shape for young children). You identify what you can see on each plate. Some plates include numbers that you can only see with full-color vision. Others include numbers that you can only see with color vision deficiency.

Based on the results of the Ishihara test, your provider may recommend further testing to confirm a diagnosis and learn more.

If you believe you or your child may have color blindness, contact an eye care provider to schedule an eye exam. Be sure to mention your concerns at your appointment.

How old should my child be for colorblind testing?

Color vision deficiency testing is generally appropriate for children ages 4 and older. By age 4, most children can answer questions about what they see. However, your child should have their first comprehensive eye exam much sooner (before their 1st birthday).

Symptoms

When to see a doctor

Request an appointment

Complications

Blood clots are a dangerous complication of atrial fibrillation (AFib). Blood clots can lead to stroke.

The risk of stroke from AFib increases as you grow older. Other health conditions also may increase the risk of a stroke due to AFib. These conditions include:

High blood pressure.
Diabetes.
Heart failure.
Some types of heart valve disease.

Blood thinners are commonly prescribed to prevent blood clots and strokes in people with atrial fibrillation.

Prevention

Healthy lifestyle choices can reduce the risk of heart disease and may prevent atrial fibrillation (AFib). Here are some basic heart-healthy tips:

Control high blood pressure, high cholesterol and diabetes.
Don't smoke or use tobacco.
Eat a diet that's low in salt and saturated fat.
Exercise at least 30 minutes a day on most days of the week unless your health care team says not to.
Get good sleep. Adults should aim for 7 to 9 hours daily.
Maintain a healthy weight.
Reduce and manage stress.

By Freedmans Health Clinic Staff

Living with atrial fibrillation?

Connect with others like you for support and answers to your questions in the Heart Rhythm Conditions support group on Freedmans Health Clinic Connect, a patient community.