Unfortunately, there are no quick fixes for some of the vision problems that can occur with multiple sclerosis (MS). So, if your vision remains impaired in spite of all of the interventions, contact a low-vision specialist. Unlike the neurologist or neuro-ophthalmologist who focuses primarily on diagnosing your symptoms and trying to manage them medically, low-vision specialists zero in on how your vision problems affect your everyday life.
Low-vision specialists are licensed optometrists or ophthalmologists with a special expertise in addressing the impact of vision loss on daily activities. They pay special attention to your activities at home and work, as well as your hobbies and interests, and recommend aids and strategies to help you make the most of the vision you have.
One particularly useful visual aid is the closed circuit television (CCTV), which magnifies right onto a TV screen hard-to-see things, such as photos, letters, book pages, and labels on your prescription medications. Your computer can also be modified to magnify text or translate text into voice and vice versa.
The good news is that if you're dealing with vision problems, you don't need to do it alone. The Low Vision Gateway, a website sponsored by the Internet Low Vision Society, provides a list of computer programs for people with low vision. Also check out these helpful sources of information, support, and assistance:
American Foundation for the Blind (phone: 800-AFB-LINE or 800-232-5463)
American Printing House for the Blind (phone: 800-223-1839)
The Lighthouse (phone: 800-829-0500)
Low Vision Information Center (phone: 301-951-4444)
The National Association for the Visually Handicapped (phone: 800-677-9965)
The National Federation of the Blind (phone: 410-659-9314)
Public Broadcasting Service's Descriptive Video Service (phone: 617-300-3600)
