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Causes of Colour vision deficiency

Colour deficient vision is either inherited, or as a side-effect of an illness or medication.

Inherited colour deficient vision is the more common form. Red-green and blue colour deficiency are carried by the genes, and at least one of the genetic components resides on the X chromosome. Females are carriers but the majority of affected individuals are males. A recessive gene in both males and females carries total colour blindness. Inherited colour deficiency can vary from mild to severe, but will not worsen over a lifetime.

Sometimes people develop colour deficient vision because of:

• Chronic illnesses such as diabetes mellitus, leukaemia, sickle cell anaemia and glaucoma, may produce visual defects as a side effect. When the condition occurs because of illness, it is usually the blue-yellow variation.
• Certain degenerative conditions affect the retina including Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, and Alzheimer’s disease.
• Optic nerve disorders (caused by inflammation of the nerve, or nutritional deficiencies) weaken the ability to perceive colours.
• Accidents or strokes that damage the retina or affect particular areas of the brain, can cause colour blindness. 
• Some medications have been known to alter colour vision. These include medicines for high blood pressure, anti-tuberculosis treatments and barbiturates. Exposure to industrial or environmental chemicals such as carbon monoxide or carbon disulfide can also have this effect.

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