[{"data":1,"prerenderedAt":1151},["ShallowReactive",2],{"microcopies":3,"page-data-/eye-health/eye-conditions/colour-blindness":9},{"of":4,"jumpToSection":5,"home":6,"availableAt":7,"accessedUpdated":8},"of","Jump to section","Home","Available at","Accessed",{"queryData":10,"breadcrumbTrail":1150},{"contentPage":11},{"entryTitle":12,"pageTitle":13,"seoMetaData":14,"topSection":18,"bottomSection":26,"anchors":38,"mainSectionCollection":71},"NZ - Eye Health - Eye Conditions - Colour blindness ","Colour blindness",{"metaDescription":15,"indexed":16,"follow":16,"metaKeywords":17,"updatedForProjectAlphabet":16},"Colour blindness affects how you see certain shades. Learn the causes, types, and how an eye test can help identify and manage it effectively.",true,null,{"__typename":19,"sys":20,"button":17,"title":22,"subtitle":23,"theme":24,"heroHeightVersion":25},"HeroBanner",{"id":21},"1i0xmJNSk2wRq0kecIign5","Colour blindness ","Having trouble telling colours apart? Learn about colour blindness, a common vision deficiency, its causes, and how it's diagnosed. ","Ellipse","Condensed",{"__typename":27,"sys":28,"title":30,"body":31,"buttonsCollection":32},"FullWidthBannerFooter",{"id":29},"51o4LDgfgwIbWVUJ0kcQ8X","Let's get your vision sorted","Noticed a change in your sight? Whether it’s something new or something that’s been bothering you for a while, we’re here to help. ",{"items":33},[34],{"linkText":35,"linkUrl":36,"openLinkInANewBrowserTab":37},"Book an eye test","/book/location",false,{"anchorLinksCollection":39},{"items":40},[41,46,51,56,61,66],{"anchorLabel":42,"includeLinkInPageNav":16,"anchorTarget":43},"Types ",{"sys":44},{"id":45},"5VUlOXOZmcE7mBNOgaV8wr",{"anchorLabel":47,"includeLinkInPageNav":16,"anchorTarget":48},"Symptoms",{"sys":49},{"id":50},"3RYIGbBYjgJIUSriWU4rTx",{"anchorLabel":52,"includeLinkInPageNav":16,"anchorTarget":53},"Causes ",{"sys":54},{"id":55},"5FUogFuyj18gmhRhrvm2XY",{"anchorLabel":57,"includeLinkInPageNav":16,"anchorTarget":58},"Diagnosis ",{"sys":59},{"id":60},"lB8t4UxXGqJzLVmhWAWa8",{"anchorLabel":62,"includeLinkInPageNav":16,"anchorTarget":63},"Treatment ",{"sys":64},{"id":65},"7cSC8eC8hK4O9plgqy606U",{"anchorLabel":67,"includeLinkInPageNav":16,"anchorTarget":68},"FAQs ",{"sys":69},{"id":70},"4MwIoNoZhcDZ0sJdsv8wQb",{"items":72},[73,103,136,186,320,364,457,494,573,597,659,732,772,896,911,941,984,1099,1130],{"__typename":74,"sys":75,"theme":77,"genericTextComponent":78},"ContentTypeRichText",{"id":76},"4zmx2mgRa5dSjHW8ohHw4m","Mono White",{"json":79,"links":100},{"data":80,"content":81,"nodeType":99},{},[82,91],{"data":83,"content":84,"nodeType":90},{},[85],{"data":86,"marks":87,"value":88,"nodeType":89},{},[],"Colour blindness overview","text","heading-2",{"data":92,"content":93,"nodeType":98},{},[94],{"data":95,"marks":96,"value":97,"nodeType":89},{},[],"Colour blindness, or colour vision deficiency (CVD), is a condition where a person is unable to see colours in the normal way. It doesn't mean you see the world in black and white but that you have a reduced ability to distinguish between certain colours and shades. The most common form is red-green colour blindness. The condition is which genetic affects around 1 in 12 men and 1 in 200 women. ","paragraph","document",{"entries":101},{"block":102},[],{"__typename":104,"sys":105,"title":107,"subtitle":17,"hotspotConfigurator":108,"hotspotImageReference":134},"MediaHotspotCarousel",{"id":106},"26SDMejpoe9HIkrUX9YZfu","How the eye works",{"assetId":109,"hotspots":110},"350sGiM8GbjQkEI0o4ovOO",[111,124],{"x":112,"y":113,"id":114,"label":115,"theme":116,"isValid":16,"bodyCopy":117,"naturalX":118,"naturalY":119,"percentageX":120,"percentageY":121,"appImageWidth":122,"appImageHeight":123},570.4090576171875,132.727294921875,"CaIZn9wjDvb0RojtPDJEe","Retina","Dark"," The retina is a layer of tissue at the back of the eye covered with millions of light-sensitive cells called rods and cones. When light enters the eye, these cells detect it and send signals to the brain. ",664.5038395904437,154.6783475435697,64.89295308500427,25.52447979266827,879,520,{"x":125,"y":126,"id":127,"label":128,"theme":116,"isValid":16,"bodyCopy":129,"naturalX":130,"naturalY":131,"percentageX":132,"percentageY":133,"appImageWidth":122,"appImageHeight":123},593.1362915039062,328.18182373046875,"FXK37m9LBpBoA8mEftthY","Cone Cells "," Cone cells are responsible for colour vision. Most people have three types of cones, each sensitive to different wavelengths of light: red, green, and blue. The brain combines the signals from these cones to make the full spectrum of colours. Colour blindness occurs when one or more of these cone types are absent or not working correctly. ",690.9801621160409,382.458048424354,67.47853145664462,63.111889178936295,{"url":135},"https://images.ctfassets.net/uuaxywrybmpn/350sGiM8GbjQkEI0o4ovOO/7e4782176839acfa37700a5ed7f9b183/blind-spot-pupil-reflex-2zejrof6swffvdyi15fr40.jpg",{"__typename":74,"sys":137,"theme":139,"genericTextComponent":140},{"id":138},"31Mpgi4qqRdBlsKhOVNm6K","Cool Blue",{"json":141,"links":183},{"data":142,"content":143,"nodeType":99},{},[144,151],{"data":145,"content":146,"nodeType":90},{},[147],{"data":148,"marks":149,"value":150,"nodeType":89},{},[],"What is colour blindness? ",{"data":152,"content":153,"nodeType":98},{},[154,158,167,171,179],{"data":155,"marks":156,"value":157,"nodeType":89},{},[],"Colour blindness, or colour vision deficiency, is typically an inherited condition, meaning you're born with it. It's caused by a fault in the development of the cone cells in the retina. While most cases are genetic, it's also possible to develop colour blindness later in life due to other conditions like ",{"data":159,"content":161,"nodeType":166},{"uri":160},"/eye-health/eye-conditions/diabetic-retinopathy",[162],{"data":163,"marks":164,"value":165,"nodeType":89},{},[],"diabetes","hyperlink",{"data":168,"marks":169,"value":170,"nodeType":89},{},[],", ",{"data":172,"content":174,"nodeType":166},{"uri":173},"/eye-health/eye-conditions/glaucoma",[175],{"data":176,"marks":177,"value":178,"nodeType":89},{},[],"glaucoma,",{"data":180,"marks":181,"value":182,"nodeType":89},{},[]," or as a side effect of some medications. \n  \nPeople with the most common types of colour blindness, like red-green colour blindness, find it hard to tell the difference between reds, greens, browns, and oranges. They might also confuse blues and purples. A less common form is blue-yellow colour blindness, which makes it difficult to distinguish between blue and green, or yellow and red. It's a misconception that colour blind people only confuse red and green. The condition can affect the perception of many different colours. ",{"entries":184},{"block":185},[],{"__typename":74,"sys":187,"theme":77,"genericTextComponent":188},{"id":45},{"json":189,"links":317},{"data":190,"content":191,"nodeType":99},{},[192,199,206,215,223,230,237,244,251,258,266,273,280,287,294,301],{"data":193,"content":194,"nodeType":90},{},[195],{"data":196,"marks":197,"value":198,"nodeType":89},{},[],"Different types of colour blindness",{"data":200,"content":201,"nodeType":98},{},[202],{"data":203,"marks":204,"value":205,"nodeType":89},{},[],"There are different types of colour vision deficiencies, and each one affects how you see colours in its own way. Most types are inherited and happen when the cone cells in your eyes don’t work properly. ",{"data":207,"content":208,"nodeType":98},{},[209],{"data":210,"marks":211,"value":214,"nodeType":89},{},[212],{"type":213},"bold","The most common type is red-green colour blindness, which includes: ",{"data":216,"content":217,"nodeType":222},{},[218],{"data":219,"marks":220,"value":221,"nodeType":89},{},[],"Deuteranopia","heading-3",{"data":224,"content":225,"nodeType":98},{},[226],{"data":227,"marks":228,"value":229,"nodeType":89},{},[]," Green cone cells are missing, making it hard to distinguish between red and green. ",{"data":231,"content":232,"nodeType":222},{},[233],{"data":234,"marks":235,"value":236,"nodeType":89},{},[],"Protanopia",{"data":238,"content":239,"nodeType":98},{},[240],{"data":241,"marks":242,"value":243,"nodeType":89},{},[],"Red cone cells are missing, also causing difficulty in telling red and green apart. ",{"data":245,"content":246,"nodeType":222},{},[247],{"data":248,"marks":249,"value":250,"nodeType":89},{},[],"Deuteranomaly/Protanomaly",{"data":252,"content":253,"nodeType":98},{},[254],{"data":255,"marks":256,"value":257,"nodeType":89},{},[]," The green or red cone cells are present but don't function correctly, leading to a milder form of red and green colour blindness. ",{"data":259,"content":260,"nodeType":98},{},[261],{"data":262,"marks":263,"value":265,"nodeType":89},{},[264],{"type":213},"Blue-yellow colour blindness is less common and includes: ",{"data":267,"content":268,"nodeType":222},{},[269],{"data":270,"marks":271,"value":272,"nodeType":89},{},[],"Tritanopia ",{"data":274,"content":275,"nodeType":98},{},[276],{"data":277,"marks":278,"value":279,"nodeType":89},{},[],"Blue cone cells are missing, making it difficult to differentiate between blue and green, and yellow and violet. ",{"data":281,"content":282,"nodeType":222},{},[283],{"data":284,"marks":285,"value":286,"nodeType":89},{},[],"Tritanomaly ",{"data":288,"content":289,"nodeType":98},{},[290],{"data":291,"marks":292,"value":293,"nodeType":89},{},[],"Blue cone cells are present but faulty, causing a less severe form of blue green colour blindness. ",{"data":295,"content":296,"nodeType":222},{},[297],{"data":298,"marks":299,"value":300,"nodeType":89},{},[],"Complete colour blindness",{"data":302,"content":303,"nodeType":98},{},[304,308,313],{"data":305,"marks":306,"value":307,"nodeType":89},{},[],"Complete colour blindness (",{"data":309,"marks":310,"value":312,"nodeType":89},{},[311],{"type":213},"Monochromacy",{"data":314,"marks":315,"value":316,"nodeType":89},{},[],") is the rarest type, where individuals see no colour at all and perceive the world in shades of grey. ",{"entries":318},{"block":319},[],{"__typename":74,"sys":321,"theme":77,"genericTextComponent":323},{"id":322},"5o8pBIXGf3VpiqcDlMxjjV",{"json":324,"links":359},{"nodeType":99,"data":325,"content":326},{},[327,335,343,352],{"nodeType":328,"data":329,"content":330},"heading-4",{},[331],{"nodeType":89,"value":332,"marks":333,"data":334},"Let’s get your vision sorted ",[],{},{"nodeType":336,"data":337,"content":338},"heading-5",{},[339],{"nodeType":89,"value":340,"marks":341,"data":342},"Noticed your eyes hurting, or a change in your sight? Whether it’s something new or something that’s been bothering you for a while, we’re here to help.  ",[],{},{"nodeType":344,"data":345,"content":351},"embedded-entry-block",{"target":346},{"sys":347},{"id":348,"type":349,"linkType":350},"395b8esPHoSP6jWAob1ApE","Link","Entry",[],{"nodeType":98,"data":353,"content":354},{},[355],{"nodeType":89,"value":356,"marks":357,"data":358},"",[],{},{"entries":360},{"block":361},[362],{"__typename":349,"sys":363,"linkText":35,"linkUrl":36,"openLinkInANewBrowserTab":37},{"id":348},{"__typename":74,"sys":365,"theme":77,"genericTextComponent":366},{"id":50},{"json":367,"links":454},{"data":368,"content":369,"nodeType":99},{},[370,377,384,391,398,405,412,419,426,433,440,447],{"data":371,"content":372,"nodeType":90},{},[373],{"data":374,"marks":375,"value":376,"nodeType":89},{},[],"Symptoms of colour blindness  ",{"data":378,"content":379,"nodeType":98},{},[380],{"data":381,"marks":382,"value":383,"nodeType":89},{},[],"The main symptom of colour blindness is difficulty distinguishing between colours or making mistakes when identifying colours. You might not be aware you have it until it's pointed out or you undergo a colour eye test. Symptoms can range from mild to severe. Common signs include: ",{"data":385,"content":386,"nodeType":222},{},[387],{"data":388,"marks":389,"value":390,"nodeType":89},{},[],"Difficulty telling reds and greens apart",{"data":392,"content":393,"nodeType":98},{},[394],{"data":395,"marks":396,"value":397,"nodeType":89},{},[],"This is the most common issue, especially in red-green colour blindness. Traffic lights can be a challenge, though they are designed with this in mind (red is always at the top). ",{"data":399,"content":400,"nodeType":222},{},[401],{"data":402,"marks":403,"value":404,"nodeType":89},{},[],"Confusing colours",{"data":406,"content":407,"nodeType":98},{},[408],{"data":409,"marks":410,"value":411,"nodeType":89},{},[],"You might mistake blue for purple, or orange for red. For example, you might have trouble telling if a banana is ripe. ",{"data":413,"content":414,"nodeType":222},{},[415],{"data":416,"marks":417,"value":418,"nodeType":89},{},[],"Colours appearing dull or washed out",{"data":420,"content":421,"nodeType":98},{},[422],{"data":423,"marks":424,"value":425,"nodeType":89},{},[],"Colours may seem less vibrant than they do to people with normal vision. ",{"data":427,"content":428,"nodeType":222},{},[429],{"data":430,"marks":431,"value":432,"nodeType":89},{},[],"Trouble with colour-coded information: ",{"data":434,"content":435,"nodeType":98},{},[436],{"data":437,"marks":438,"value":439,"nodeType":89},{},[],"Difficulty reading colour-coded charts, graphs, or maps. This can have occupational considerations, for example, for electricians working with coloured wires. ",{"data":441,"content":442,"nodeType":222},{},[443],{"data":444,"marks":445,"value":446,"nodeType":89},{},[],"Sensitivity to light",{"data":448,"content":449,"nodeType":98},{},[450],{"data":451,"marks":452,"value":453,"nodeType":89},{},[],"In some rare and severe forms of colour blindness, like monochromacy, individuals may experience increased light sensitivity. ",{"entries":455},{"block":456},[],{"__typename":74,"sys":458,"theme":139,"genericTextComponent":460},{"id":459},"7dW8XxpaJegUS0lK8TXNBE",{"json":461,"links":489},{"data":462,"content":463,"nodeType":99},{},[464,471,478,483],{"data":465,"content":466,"nodeType":222},{},[467],{"data":468,"marks":469,"value":470,"nodeType":89},{},[],"What the experts say about colour blindness ",{"data":472,"content":473,"nodeType":98},{},[474],{"data":475,"marks":476,"value":477,"nodeType":89},{},[],"Our expert optometrists frequently conduct tests for colour blindness. In this video, one of our optometrists explains what is colour blindness, the different types of colour blindness, and how a colour blind test works.  ",{"data":479,"content":482,"nodeType":344},{"target":480},{"sys":481},{"id":348,"type":349,"linkType":350},[],{"data":484,"content":485,"nodeType":98},{},[486],{"data":487,"marks":488,"value":356,"nodeType":89},{},[],{"entries":490},{"block":491},[492],{"__typename":349,"sys":493,"linkText":35,"linkUrl":36,"openLinkInANewBrowserTab":37},{"id":348},{"__typename":74,"sys":495,"theme":139,"genericTextComponent":496},{"id":55},{"json":497,"links":570},{"data":498,"content":499,"nodeType":99},{},[500,507,514,521,528,535,542],{"data":501,"content":502,"nodeType":90},{},[503],{"data":504,"marks":505,"value":506,"nodeType":89},{},[],"What causes colour blindness? ",{"data":508,"content":509,"nodeType":98},{},[510],{"data":511,"marks":512,"value":513,"nodeType":89},{},[],"So, what causes colour blindness? In the vast majority of cases, it is related to genetics.",{"data":515,"content":516,"nodeType":222},{},[517],{"data":518,"marks":519,"value":520,"nodeType":89},{},[],"Inherited condition ",{"data":522,"content":523,"nodeType":98},{},[524],{"data":525,"marks":526,"value":527,"nodeType":89},{},[],"Most people with colour blindness are born with it. It's a common inherited condition passed down from parents to their children on the X chromosome. This is why red-green colour blindness is much more common in men. ",{"data":529,"content":530,"nodeType":98},{},[531],{"data":532,"marks":533,"value":534,"nodeType":89},{},[],"A man only needs to inherit the gene from his mother, whereas a woman needs to inherit it from both her father and mother to be colour vision deficient.",{"data":536,"content":537,"nodeType":222},{},[538],{"data":539,"marks":540,"value":541,"nodeType":89},{},[],"Acquired colour blindness ",{"data":543,"content":544,"nodeType":98},{},[545,549,556,559,566],{"data":546,"marks":547,"value":548,"nodeType":89},{},[],"You can develop colour blindness later in life, often due to an underlying health condition like ",{"data":550,"content":551,"nodeType":166},{"uri":173},[552],{"data":553,"marks":554,"value":555,"nodeType":89},{},[],"glaucoma",{"data":557,"marks":558,"value":170,"nodeType":89},{},[],{"data":560,"content":561,"nodeType":166},{"uri":160},[562],{"data":563,"marks":564,"value":565,"nodeType":89},{},[],"diabetic retinopathy",{"data":567,"marks":568,"value":569,"nodeType":89},{},[],", or multiple sclerosis. It can also be caused by certain medications, ageing, or an injury to the eye. \n  \nIf you’ve noticed any changes in how you see colours, it’s a good idea to book an eye test. Your optometrist can check for any signs of underlying problems and help you understand what’s going on.",{"entries":571},{"block":572},[],{"__typename":74,"sys":574,"theme":139,"genericTextComponent":576},{"id":575},"5yIhKrvtE33w1wbZxEMFl4",{"json":577,"links":594},{"nodeType":99,"data":578,"content":579},{},[580,587],{"nodeType":90,"data":581,"content":582},{},[583],{"nodeType":89,"value":584,"marks":585,"data":586},"How is colour blindness diagnosed?  ",[],{},{"nodeType":98,"data":588,"content":589},{},[590],{"nodeType":89,"value":591,"marks":592,"data":593},"An optometrist can diagnose colour blindness during a comprehensive eye examination. If you or your child have trouble naming colours, it’s a good idea to get it checked. Diagnosing it early is important, as it can affect learning and career choices. \n  \nAn optometrist will use specially designed charts to assess your colour vision. These tests are quick, painless, and can accurately determine the type and severity of colour blindness.  ",[],{},{"entries":595},{"block":596},[],{"__typename":74,"sys":598,"theme":139,"genericTextComponent":600},{"id":599},"3wzgaMM6XjiuhlnJiDB9Ht",{"json":601,"links":650},{"data":602,"content":603,"nodeType":99},{},[604,611,618,625,632,638,644],{"data":605,"content":606,"nodeType":222},{},[607],{"data":608,"marks":609,"value":610,"nodeType":89},{},[],"Ishihara test  ",{"data":612,"content":613,"nodeType":98},{},[614],{"data":615,"marks":616,"value":617,"nodeType":89},{},[],"This is the most common test for colour vision. It involves a series of plates, each made up of dots of different colours and sizes. Within the pattern are dots that form a number or shape, which someone with normal colour vision can see, but someone with vision deficiency may not be able to see or may see something different.",{"data":619,"content":620,"nodeType":222},{},[621],{"data":622,"marks":623,"value":624,"nodeType":89},{},[],"Slit-lamp examination",{"data":626,"content":627,"nodeType":98},{},[628],{"data":629,"marks":630,"value":631,"nodeType":89},{},[],"While not a direct test for colour blindness, the optometrist will examine the overall health of your eyes to rule out other conditions that could be causing changes in your vision, such as glaucoma or diabetic retinopathy. ",{"data":633,"content":637,"nodeType":344},{"target":634},{"sys":635},{"id":636,"type":349,"linkType":350},"cW1BnYCLEgorGwac1OEpG",[],{"data":639,"content":643,"nodeType":344},{"target":640},{"sys":641},{"id":642,"type":349,"linkType":350},"qBGeIPs7uG5r5Eh1BJ3UA",[],{"data":645,"content":646,"nodeType":98},{},[647],{"data":648,"marks":649,"value":356,"nodeType":89},{},[],{"entries":651},{"block":652},[653,656],{"__typename":349,"sys":654,"linkText":655,"linkUrl":160,"openLinkInANewBrowserTab":16},{"id":636},"Learn about diabetic retinopathy",{"__typename":349,"sys":657,"linkText":658,"linkUrl":173,"openLinkInANewBrowserTab":16},{"id":642},"Learn about glaucoma",{"__typename":660,"sys":661,"switchSequenceAtMobile":37,"backgroundTheme":662,"leftColumnCollection":663,"rightColumnCollection":689},"TwoColumnLayout",{"id":65},"White",{"items":664},[665],{"__typename":74,"sys":666,"theme":77,"genericTextComponent":668},{"id":667},"1rgmyDrmDmPRpL2Tnn9vOc",{"json":669,"links":686},{"nodeType":99,"data":670,"content":671},{},[672,679],{"nodeType":222,"data":673,"content":674},{},[675],{"nodeType":89,"value":676,"marks":677,"data":678},"How is colour blindness treated? ",[],{},{"nodeType":98,"data":680,"content":681},{},[682],{"nodeType":89,"value":683,"marks":684,"data":685},"There’s currently no cure for inherited colour blindness, but there are ways to manage it and adapt day to day. If colour blindness develops later in life, treating the underlying cause, like an eye condition or medication side effect, may help restore some colour vision. ",[],{},{"entries":687},{"block":688},[],{"items":690},[691],{"__typename":74,"sys":692,"theme":77,"genericTextComponent":694},{"id":693},"37m2ww7vgtG7GVHW1g2BsX",{"json":695,"links":727},{"nodeType":99,"data":696,"content":697},{},[698,705,716,721],{"nodeType":222,"data":699,"content":700},{},[701],{"nodeType":89,"value":702,"marks":703,"data":704},"Support and tools to help you manage colour vision problems ",[],{},{"nodeType":98,"data":706,"content":707},{},[708,712],{"nodeType":89,"value":709,"marks":710,"data":711},"Some people with colour vision deficiency find lenses with filters help, especially those with red-green colour deficiency",[],{},{"nodeType":89,"value":713,"marks":714,"data":715},". These special lenses filter certain wavelengths of light to make colours appear more distinct, though they don’t work for everyone. There are also apps and accessibility tools that can help identify colours, along with simple things like learning the order of traffic lights or relying on labels, to make everyday tasks easier. ",[],{},{"nodeType":344,"data":717,"content":720},{"target":718},{"sys":719},{"id":348,"type":349,"linkType":350},[],{"nodeType":98,"data":722,"content":723},{},[724],{"nodeType":89,"value":356,"marks":725,"data":726},[],{},{"entries":728},{"block":729},[730],{"__typename":349,"sys":731,"linkText":35,"linkUrl":36,"openLinkInANewBrowserTab":37},{"id":348},{"__typename":74,"sys":733,"theme":139,"genericTextComponent":735},{"id":734},"6fFWmcVITAwgPG4FCN4ofx",{"json":736,"links":765},{"data":737,"content":738,"nodeType":99},{},[739,746,753,759],{"data":740,"content":741,"nodeType":90},{},[742],{"data":743,"marks":744,"value":745,"nodeType":89},{},[],"When colour blindness needs medical help ",{"data":747,"content":748,"nodeType":98},{},[749],{"data":750,"marks":751,"value":752,"nodeType":89},{},[],"Inherited colour blindness is a stable condition and doesn't get worse over time. However, you should see an optometrist or your GP if you notice a sudden change in your colour perception. This could be a sign of an underlying health issue that needs attention, such as problems with your retina causing blurry vision or cloudy vision. ",{"data":754,"content":758,"nodeType":344},{"target":755},{"sys":756},{"id":757,"type":349,"linkType":350},"4ok6t1NNL1gTRLWbEpD0QM",[],{"data":760,"content":761,"nodeType":98},{},[762],{"data":763,"marks":764,"value":356,"nodeType":89},{},[],{"entries":766},{"block":767},[768],{"__typename":349,"sys":769,"linkText":770,"linkUrl":771,"openLinkInANewBrowserTab":16},{"id":757},"Learn more about cloudy vision ","/eye-health/eye-conditions/cloudy-vision",{"__typename":773,"sys":774,"title":775,"theme":776,"expandFirstRow":37,"accordionEntriesCollection":777},"Accordion",{"id":70},"Colour blindness questions, answered","Grey",{"items":778},[779,795,836,851,866,881],{"__typename":780,"sys":781,"panel":783,"link":17,"faqCategory":17,"header":794},"Faq",{"id":782},"68wPQ5rV80SIpm5vnuSi7a",{"json":784},{"nodeType":99,"data":785,"content":786},{},[787],{"nodeType":98,"data":788,"content":789},{},[790],{"nodeType":89,"value":791,"marks":792,"data":793},"People with colour blindness don't see the world in black and white. This can happen but it is very rare, Majority do see colours but they will see a narrower range of colours. For someone with red-green colour blindness, reds and greens might look like shades of brown or grey. They might also confuse blues and purples, or pinks and greys. The specific colours they struggle with depend on the type of colour blindness they have. ",[],{},"What do people with colour blindness see?",{"__typename":780,"sys":796,"panel":798,"link":17,"faqCategory":17,"header":835},{"id":797},"39i6xqNvY7InzLB62jlQYS",{"json":799},{"nodeType":99,"data":800,"content":801},{},[802,809],{"nodeType":98,"data":803,"content":804},{},[805],{"nodeType":89,"value":806,"marks":807,"data":808}," While most colour blindness is genetic and present from birth, it is possible to develop it later in life. This is known as acquired colour vision deficiency and can be caused by underlying health conditions like glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy or from neurological disorders, certain medications, or an injury to the eye. If you notice a sudden change in how you see colours, it's important to book an eye test.  ",[],{},{"nodeType":98,"data":810,"content":811},{},[812,816,822,826,832],{"nodeType":89,"value":813,"marks":814,"data":815},"Learn more about ",[],{},{"nodeType":166,"data":817,"content":818},{"uri":173},[819],{"nodeType":89,"value":555,"marks":820,"data":821},[],{},{"nodeType":89,"value":823,"marks":824,"data":825}," and ",[],{},{"nodeType":166,"data":827,"content":828},{"uri":160},[829],{"nodeType":89,"value":565,"marks":830,"data":831},[],{},{"nodeType":89,"value":356,"marks":833,"data":834},[],{},"Can you suddenly become colour blind?",{"__typename":780,"sys":837,"panel":839,"link":17,"faqCategory":17,"header":850},{"id":838},"7eUbGDStbC7VeA8387pxXy",{"json":840},{"data":841,"content":842,"nodeType":99},{},[843],{"data":844,"content":845,"nodeType":98},{},[846],{"data":847,"marks":848,"value":849,"nodeType":89},{},[],"You might not realise you're colour blind, as you've always seen the world in the same way. You might only find out if you have trouble with a task that requires colour recognition, or during a routine colour eye test. The most definitive way to know is to be tested by an optometrist using a colour blind test like the Ishihara plates. ","How do I know if I'm colour blind?",{"__typename":780,"sys":852,"panel":854,"link":17,"faqCategory":17,"header":865},{"id":853},"3BtXRsSVjvSNwaoFicwtN5",{"json":855},{"data":856,"content":857,"nodeType":99},{},[858],{"data":859,"content":860,"nodeType":98},{},[861],{"data":862,"marks":863,"value":864,"nodeType":89},{},[],"Colour blindness is not generally considered a disability. However, it can have an impact on daily life and may be a barrier for certain occupations. For example, roles like pilots, train drivers, and some electricians require normal colour vision for safety reasons. There are occupational considerations for colour blind testing, and some employers may require it as part of their pre-employment screening. ","Is colour blindness a disability?",{"__typename":780,"sys":867,"panel":869,"link":17,"faqCategory":17,"header":880},{"id":868},"5Cli88oJ6CxCHKLjANEf24",{"json":870},{"nodeType":99,"data":871,"content":872},{},[873],{"nodeType":98,"data":874,"content":875},{},[876],{"nodeType":89,"value":877,"marks":878,"data":879},"Currently, there is no cure for inherited colour blindness. However, there are ways to manage it. Colour blind glasses can help some people with red-green colour blindness to better distinguish between certain colours. For acquired colour blindness, treating the underlying medical condition may help to improve colour perception.",[],{},"Can colour blindness be cured?",{"__typename":780,"sys":882,"panel":884,"link":17,"faqCategory":17,"header":895},{"id":883},"1BQrEyHnd6RCkV5vOtInRe",{"json":885},{"data":886,"content":887,"nodeType":99},{},[888],{"data":889,"content":890,"nodeType":98},{},[891],{"data":892,"marks":893,"value":894,"nodeType":89},{},[],"The genes responsible for the most common form of colour blindness, red-green, are on the X chromosome. Men (XY) only have one X chromosome, so if they inherit the faulty gene from their mother, they will be colour blind. Women (XX) have two X chromosomes, so they would need to inherit the faulty gene from both parents to be colour blind, which is much rarer. This is why colour blindness genetics affect men more often. ","Why is colour blindness more common in men?",{"__typename":897,"sys":898,"title":900,"body":901,"theme":902,"buttonCollection":903},"FullWidthBannerSimple",{"id":899},"1WGy75Pd8zIB5q5ZpdA2sW","Did you know?","AA Members are entitled to a free eye test (valued at $60), once every two years. Remember to present your AA Membership card in-store.","Block Colour",{"items":904},[905,908],{"linkText":906,"linkUrl":907,"openLinkInANewBrowserTab":37},"Book an appointment","/stores",{"linkText":909,"linkUrl":910,"openLinkInANewBrowserTab":37},"See more eye conditions","/eye-health/eye-conditions",{"__typename":912,"sys":913,"title":915,"backgroundTheme":662,"authorEntriesCollection":916},"AuthorContainer",{"id":914},"3Su4gKBT1YGXKeQumo6HAU","Written with care and checked for accuracy",{"items":917},[918],{"authorBiography":919,"authorName":937,"authorQualification":938,"authorPhoto":939},{"json":920},{"nodeType":99,"data":921,"content":922},{},[923,930],{"nodeType":98,"data":924,"content":925},{},[926],{"nodeType":89,"value":927,"marks":928,"data":929},"Dr Ambhruni Padhye graduated from the University of Melbourne with a Bachelor of Science(Honours) and Doctor of Optometry. She has a background in clinical research and extensive experience practising full scope optometry. She has worked as an Optometrist in various Specsavers stores across both metropolitan and regional Victoria and has held positions at the Centre for Eye Research Australia (CERA) and National Vision Research Institute (NVRI).",[],{},{"nodeType":98,"data":931,"content":932},{},[933],{"nodeType":89,"value":934,"marks":935,"data":936},"In her current role within the Clinical Services team, Ambhruni supports Specsavers Optometrist across Australia and New Zealand in various clinical governance and professional services matters. She also contributes to new clinical initiatives aimed at enhancing patient outcomes.",[],{},"Dr Ambhruni Padhye","BSc. (Hons), OD",{"url":940},"https://images.ctfassets.net/uuaxywrybmpn/4AppA3MIOFvVkssijFwaOY/31aec0cbbe169b9e2553b7000095f604/26e949b7-1943-4327-bdbd-b3beac345c52.jpg",{"__typename":942,"sys":943,"title":945,"theme":662,"listType":946,"expandAccordion":37,"accordionEntriesCollection":947},"SingleRowAccordion",{"id":944},"4ie8zxp2jSiTt2eVX67r2k","Sources we've used ","Numbered",{"items":948},[949,957,964,971,977],{"__typename":950,"sys":951,"citationAuthor":953,"citationYear":954,"citationDescription":13,"citationUrl":955,"citationAccessedUpdatedDate":956},"Citation",{"id":952},"2x00oMt3eSxvP2mnpJs7zV","Healthdirect ",2023,"https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/colour-blindness","2025-12-11T00:00:00.000Z",{"__typename":950,"sys":958,"citationAuthor":960,"citationYear":961,"citationDescription":962,"citationUrl":963,"citationAccessedUpdatedDate":956},{"id":959},"6Vcg0r8v06qyyF5UnPzpwu","MedlinePlus ",2024,"Allergic conjunctivitis","https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/001031.htm",{"__typename":950,"sys":965,"citationAuthor":967,"citationYear":968,"citationDescription":969,"citationUrl":970,"citationAccessedUpdatedDate":956},{"id":966},"1C6VEjaB6lhpH1bQKnpdk9","Oxford University Hospitals ",2021,"Colour Vision Advisory Clinic","https://www.ouh.nhs.uk/media/cjumkjck/72250pcolourvision.pdf",{"__typename":950,"sys":972,"citationAuthor":974,"citationYear":961,"citationDescription":975,"citationUrl":976,"citationAccessedUpdatedDate":956},{"id":973},"6DtgpP2ryoFOgNjwy3G9P5","Cleveland Clinic","Color Blindness: Types, causes & treatment.","https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/11604-color-blindness",{"__typename":950,"sys":978,"citationAuthor":980,"citationYear":981,"citationDescription":982,"citationUrl":983,"citationAccessedUpdatedDate":956},{"id":979},"1XijdSWj0RWTumhBFOb8km","Mayo Clinic",2025,"Diagnosis and treatment of color blindness.","https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/color-blindness/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20354991",{"__typename":773,"sys":985,"title":987,"theme":776,"expandFirstRow":37,"accordionEntriesCollection":988},{"id":986},"6RDciBiIJmPFeC8u0n8tdY","Could it be something else? ",{"items":989},[990,1017,1043,1068],{"__typename":780,"sys":991,"panel":993,"link":17,"faqCategory":17,"header":1016},{"id":992},"4SoDZ3HRg09egmXcpb7hWl",{"json":994},{"nodeType":99,"data":995,"content":996},{},[997],{"nodeType":98,"data":998,"content":999},{},[1000,1004,1012],{"nodeType":89,"value":1001,"marks":1002,"data":1003},"Short-sightedness makes it harder to see things clearly at a distance. While it doesn’t directly affect how you see colour, it can make far-away objects appear blurry, especially if there’s low contrast or poor lighting. \n ",[],{},{"nodeType":166,"data":1005,"content":1007},{"uri":1006},"/eye-health/eye-conditions/myopia",[1008],{"nodeType":89,"value":1009,"marks":1010,"data":1011},"Learn more about short-sightedness",[],{},{"nodeType":89,"value":1013,"marks":1014,"data":1015}," ",[],{},"Short-sightedness (myopia) ",{"__typename":780,"sys":1018,"panel":1020,"link":17,"faqCategory":17,"header":1042},{"id":1019},"eab6T3PVwHHhdRNRdBDmx",{"json":1021},{"nodeType":99,"data":1022,"content":1023},{},[1024],{"nodeType":98,"data":1025,"content":1026},{},[1027,1031,1039],{"nodeType":89,"value":1028,"marks":1029,"data":1030},"Long-sightedness affects your ability to focus on things that are close up. If nearby objects appear blurry, colour detail can also be harder to make out. This can be especially noticeable when reading, using a phone or doing tasks that need sharp vision. \n",[],{},{"nodeType":166,"data":1032,"content":1034},{"uri":1033},"/eye-health/eye-conditions/long-sightedness",[1035],{"nodeType":89,"value":1036,"marks":1037,"data":1038},"Learn more about long-sightedness",[],{},{"nodeType":89,"value":356,"marks":1040,"data":1041},[],{},"Long-sightedness (hyperopia) ",{"__typename":780,"sys":1044,"panel":1046,"link":17,"faqCategory":17,"header":1067},{"id":1045},"7i89Cxan0olECkyo9ovTEC",{"json":1047},{"nodeType":99,"data":1048,"content":1049},{},[1050],{"nodeType":98,"data":1051,"content":1052},{},[1053,1057,1064],{"nodeType":89,"value":1054,"marks":1055,"data":1056},"Glaucoma is a condition that damages the optic nerve over time. In its early stages, you might not notice any change in vision, but as it progresses, it can lead to vision loss including changes in how you see colours, especially in the later stages of the condition. \n  \n",[],{},{"nodeType":166,"data":1058,"content":1059},{"uri":173},[1060],{"nodeType":89,"value":1061,"marks":1062,"data":1063},"Learn more about glaucoma",[],{},{"nodeType":89,"value":1013,"marks":1065,"data":1066},[],{},"Glaucoma ",{"__typename":780,"sys":1069,"panel":1071,"link":17,"faqCategory":17,"header":1098},{"id":1070},"2wy2ybvkMAFBCGJjJamttm",{"json":1072},{"nodeType":99,"data":1073,"content":1074},{},[1075,1082],{"nodeType":98,"data":1076,"content":1077},{},[1078],{"nodeType":89,"value":1079,"marks":1080,"data":1081},"Diabetic retinopathy is caused by damage to the blood vessels in the retina due to high blood sugar levels. This can affect the sharpness and clarity of your sight and may lead to changes in colour vision as the condition progresses. Regular eye tests are key to spotting early signs and protecting your sight. \n  ",[],{},{"nodeType":98,"data":1083,"content":1084},{},[1085,1088,1095],{"nodeType":89,"value":356,"marks":1086,"data":1087},[],{},{"nodeType":166,"data":1089,"content":1090},{"uri":160},[1091],{"nodeType":89,"value":1092,"marks":1093,"data":1094},"Learn more about diabetic retinopathy ",[],{"chevron-link":16},{"nodeType":89,"value":356,"marks":1096,"data":1097},[],{},"Diabetic retinopathy ",{"__typename":1100,"sys":1101,"title":1103,"body":17,"backgroundTheme":662,"actionCardEntriesCollection":1104},"ActionCardBanner",{"id":1102},"4B1jbqghJNAiamx8wh5lYr","Find out more",{"items":1105},[1106,1114,1122],{"title":1107,"body":1108,"imageAltText":1109,"linkText":1110,"linkUrl":1111,"openLinkInANewBrowserTab":37,"image":1112},"Why do I need an eye test?","Eye tests play a huge part in making sure your eyes stay healthy.","A man undergoes an eye exam, looking into a slit lamp while an eye care professional examines his eye.","Check your vision","/eye-tests/do-i-need-an-eye-test",{"url":1113},"https://images.ctfassets.net/uuaxywrybmpn/0m0X2zxvzwmGgSdaLmKjr/22b1fcb2cff0c095c09f43cb83998189/eye-health_eyetest-banner-545x273.webp",{"title":1115,"body":1116,"imageAltText":1117,"linkText":1118,"linkUrl":1119,"openLinkInANewBrowserTab":37,"image":1120},"Your store visit explained","At Specsavers we are focused on caring for your eyes and giving you the best possible vision.","A optometrist operates an eye examination machine while an older man sits in front of it.","What to expect in-store","/eye-tests/your-store-visit-explained",{"url":1121},"https://images.ctfassets.net/uuaxywrybmpn/6QwhITwthLzuD6pL1VvWJi/ffd60b36927947fd2f69c9b209caa785/eye-health_storevisit-banner-545x273.webp",{"title":1123,"body":1124,"imageAltText":1125,"linkText":1126,"linkUrl":1127,"openLinkInANewBrowserTab":37,"image":1128},"More on eye tests","An eye test is not just about getting glasses – it is a vital health check for your eyes.","A friendly optometrist giving advice to a patient in the test room.","All about eye tests","/eye-tests",{"url":1129},"https://images.ctfassets.net/uuaxywrybmpn/5klEt6jTY53XMRkReMeHt9/47f0f0e423a6f56d34cbcf07210ee0b1/eye-health_eyetestinfo-banner-545x273.webp",{"__typename":942,"sys":1131,"title":1133,"theme":776,"listType":1134,"expandAccordion":37,"accordionEntriesCollection":1135},{"id":1132},"3BvnafBbHG7FFQlCN4OxeH","Terms & Conditions","Bullet",{"items":1136},[1137],{"__typename":1138,"body":1139},"TermsAndConditions",{"json":1140},{"data":1141,"content":1142,"nodeType":99},{},[1143],{"data":1144,"content":1145,"nodeType":98},{},[1146],{"data":1147,"marks":1148,"value":1149,"nodeType":89},{},[],"Free exam for AA Members applies to standard eye examinations only, normally valued at $60. Excludes contact lens examination and visual field checks. Limited to one per AA Member every two years. Available to current AA Members upon presentation of AA Membership card.",[17,17,17],1780837448417]