TL;DR
If you’ve ever felt like your surroundings seem to disappear and all you can see is what’s right in front of you, you’re not imagining it. This is what tunnel vision looks like.
In this guide, you’ll learn what tunnel vision is, what causes it, how it affects your life, and what you can do about it.
Defining tunnel vision
Tunnel vision, or peripheral vision loss, is when your side vision starts to fade, and you’re left with only central vision. It’s as if you’re looking through a tunnel or a narrow tube.
How tunnel vision works
Your eyes usually give you a wide view of your surroundings, even when you’re not looking directly at something. But with tunnel vision, that range becomes restricted. While you can still read or focus on what’s directly ahead, it’s harder to spot objects or movement from the sides.
What causes tunnel vision?
Tunnel vision isn’t a condition on its own. Instead, it’s a symptom of another underlying issue. Here are the most common causes:
1. Eye diseases
Several eye conditions can damage the retina or optic nerve, leading to vision loss.
- Glaucoma: This is the most common cause. Glaucoma increases pressure inside the eye and damages the optic nerve.
- Retinitis pigmentosa: A rare inherited condition that slowly destroys the retina.
Diabetic retinopathy: Caused by diabetes, it affects blood vessels in the eye and can reduce peripheral vision.
2. Brain conditions
Sometimes the issue lies in the brain rather than the eyes.
- Strokes or brain injuries: Can interrupt how the brain processes visual information.
- Tumours: Growths near the visual processing areas may affect what you see.
- Migraine auras: Though temporary, these can cause tunnel vision during an episode.
Related read: How Eyes Connect To The Brain
3. Extreme stress or panic
You might’ve heard people say they “could only see what was right in front of them” during a high-stress situation. That’s not just a figure of speech.
During panic or adrenaline rushes, your body may narrow your field of view to focus on the threat. This type of tunnel vision is short-term but still intense.
4 signs you might have tunnel vision
Sometimes, tunnel vision creeps in slowly, making it easy to miss. Other times, it’s sudden and alarming. Here’s what to watch out for:
- Bumping into things or struggling to see out the corner of your eye
- Difficulty driving, especially spotting cars or pedestrians from the side
- Noticing changes in how much you can see when walking or moving quickly
- Feeling like you’re looking through a tube or a small circle.
If you’re experiencing any of these, especially if they happen suddenly, you should book an eye test immediately.
How tunnel vision affects daily life
Tunnel vision can impact simple activities you might take for granted.
Driving and road safety
Driving safely depends on your ability to notice what’s around you. Peripheral vision helps you:
- Check for other vehicles
- Spot pedestrians
- Navigate junctions
Tunnel vision can reduce reaction times and increase the risk of accidents.
Walking and navigation
Even walking in a busy space becomes risky. You might miss:
- Kerbs or changes in pavement
- People or bikes approaching from the side
- Hazards or moving objects
Work and social interaction
If your job involves screens, manual work, or even interacting with people, you may find it harder to function without a full field of view.
Diagnosing tunnel vision
You can’t self-diagnose tunnel vision with accuracy. A visit to an optometrist or ophthalmologist is essential. They might carry out the following tests:
- Visual field tests: These check your full range of sight.
- Ophthalmoscopy: A detailed look at the inside of your eyes.
- Tonometry: Measures pressure inside your eyes to test for glaucoma.
The goal is to find what’s causing the tunnel vision, so your treatment plan is accurate.
Is tunnel vision treatable?
That depends on the cause. Some forms are treatable, while others can only be managed.
If caused by glaucoma
- Eye drops or medication can help lower pressure in the eyes.
- Surgery may be an option if medication doesn’t work.
If caused by injury or stroke
- Rehabilitation therapy and brain retraining exercises may help.
- Some people regain partial vision, while others adapt with support.
If caused by retinal disease
There’s currently no cure for conditions like retinitis pigmentosa, but low vision aids and specialist care can improve quality of life.
Living with tunnel vision
If tunnel vision can’t be reversed, there are still ways to adapt and maintain your independence.
Use of assistive technology
- Magnifiers and special lenses help maximise central vision.
- Text-to-speech software can help you read or work on screens.
- Orientation and mobility training teaches you how to move safely.
Regular eye checks matter
Your eye health should never be left to guesswork. Catching issues early makes a huge difference. In the UK, most people are eligible for free NHS eye tests, especially if you’re over 60, have diabetes, or a family history of glaucoma.
Related read: How Often Should You Have An Eye Test?
When should you see an eye specialist?
Don’t ignore changes in your vision even if they seem small. See a professional if:
- You notice gradual or sudden narrowing of your vision
- You have trouble with activities that used to feel easy
- You’ve got a known eye condition and things feel worse
- You get frequent migraines that affect your sight
Early intervention is the best way to prevent long-term loss and find support solutions that work for you.
Final notes
Tunnel vision may start off unnoticed, but its impact grows fast. Understanding the signs and getting checked early could help protect your sight. Whether the cause is eye-related or linked to your health more generally, there are steps you can take today to manage it.
Don’t wait for things to get worse. If your vision feels different or you’re not seeing clearly at the sides, book an eye test and speak to a professional. Your future self will thank you for it.
