Strategies For Living With Albinism

In the United States, about one in every twenty thousand individuals is affected by albinism. This inherited genetic condition affects the body by reducing the production of melanin, the substance that gives color to skin, eyes, and hair. The occurrence of albinism varies around the world. For example, in Tanzania, one in 1400 individuals have the condition. The lack of skin pigmentation gives individuals with albinism a much lighter complexion than their siblings. It increases the risk of skin damage caused by ultraviolet rays, such as sunburn and skin cancer. The lack of pigmentation in the eyes leads to several vision problems, affecting both focus and sensitivity. Individuals with albinism have developed several strategies for living with this condition. Learn about them now.

Wear Prescription Lenses

Albinism affects the normal development of the retina. There can also be irregular connections of the nerves between the eye and brain. These complications can lead to legal blindness or extreme near or farsightedness. Problems focusing can be corrected to some extent if patients wear prescription lenses. Those with albinism also have extreme light sensitivity. The reduced pigment in the iris allows more light to enter the eye. For this reason, patients may also be helped by wearing shaded lenses, especially when going outside. Another option is wearing colored prescription contact lenses. These lenses create an artificial iris that blocks out some of the extra light.

Keep reading to learn about more pieces of advice for living with albinism now.