People with colour vision deficiency, often called colour blindness, see colours differently. Most can see colours, but confuse certain shades, especially reds and greens.
Causes
- Most cases are inherited and present from birth
- It is much more common in boys and men, because the genes are carried on the X chromosome
- Less often, it develops later due to eye disease, some medicines or injury. New colour changes should always be checked.
Signs in children
- Difficulty naming colours or mixing up crayons
- Trouble with colour-coded worksheets or maps
- Unusual colour choices in drawings
Testing
A quick test with coloured dot plates, such as Ishihara plates, can detect red-green deficiency. More detailed tests show the type and severity.
Living with it
- Tell your child’s teachers so they can adapt materials
- Label colours on clothes and stationery
- Use phone apps that identify colours
- Find out early whether a career of interest has colour vision standards, as some jobs in transport, defence and electrical work do
Frequently asked questions
Can colour blindness be cured?
Inherited colour deficiency cannot be cured. Special tinted lenses help some people distinguish colours, but they do not restore normal colour vision.
Can girls be colour blind?
Yes, but it is much less common than in boys.
Sources
This article is for general information and does not replace an examination by an eye doctor. If you have symptoms, please book a consultation.