Refractive Error & Amblyopia

Understanding Refractive Errors

Refractive errors occur when the eye cannot properly focus light on the retina, causing blurred vision. They are common vision problems that can be easily corrected with glasses, contact lenses, or surgery.

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Myopia (Nearsightedness)

Description

Difficulty seeing distant objects clearly

Cause

The eyeball is too long, or the cornea is too curved, causing light to focus in front of the retina.

Hyperopia (Farsightedness)

Description

Difficulty seeing close objects clearly.

Cause

The eyeball is too short, or the cornea is too flat, causing light to focus behind the retina.

Astigmatism

Description

Blurred vision at all distances.

Cause

An irregularly shaped cornea or lens causes light to focus on multiple points on the retina.

Presbyopia

Description

Difficulty reading or seeing objects up close, typically occurs with aging.

Cause

The lens of the eye becomes less flexible with age.

Frequency of Eye Examinations

Children

First Exam:Between 6 months to 1 year.

Preschool:At 3 to 5 years old.

School Age:Before first grade and every two years thereafter, or annually if the child wears glasses or contacts.

Adults

Ages 18-60:Every two years.

Ages 61 and older:Annually.

Myths and Facts about Spectacles

Myth:Using spectacles is bad for children.

Fact:Spectacles are safe and necessary for children with refractive errors to see clearly and perform well in school.

Myth:Using spectacles will keep increasing eye power.

Fact:Properly prescribed glasses do not worsen refractive errors. Changes in prescription are often due to natural progression of the condition.

Guidance on Use of TV and Mobile Phones for Children

Moderation:Limit screen time to reduce eye strain and encourage breaks every 20 minutes.

Distance:Ensure screens are at least an arm's length away.

Lighting:Use screens in well-lit areas to reduce strain.

Activity:Encourage outdoor play to balance screen time.

Adverse Effects of Excessive Screen Time

Eyes:Can cause digital eye strain, dry eyes, and may contribute to myopia progression.

Brain:Overexposure to screens can impact sleep patterns and cognitive development.

Foods for Eye Health

Leafy Greens:Spinach, kale, and collard greens are rich in lutein and zeaxanthin.

Fish:Salmon, tuna, and other oily fish provide omega-3 fatty acids.

Citrus Fruits:Oranges, lemons, and grapefruits are high in vitamin C.

Nuts and Seeds:Almonds and sunflower seeds offer vitamin E.

Carrots and Sweet Potatoes:High in beta-carotene, a precursor of vitamin A.

Care at Shriram Super Speciality Eye Hospital

Dr. Arpit Shah and his team at Shriram Super Speciality Eye Hospital offer comprehensive eye care, including regular eye examinations, diagnosis, and treatment of refractive errors. They provide guidance on eye health, the safe use of digital devices, and nutritional advice to maintain good vision

For more information or to schedule an appointment, please contact Shriram Super Speciality Eye Hospital.

What is Amblyopia?

Amblyopia, also known as "lazy eye," is a vision development disorder where one eye fails to achieve normal visual acuity, even with prescription glasses or contact lenses. It typically develops in early childhood and can lead to permanent vision impairment if not treated promptly.

Causes

Strabismus

Misalignment of the eyes.

Refractive Errors

Significant differences in vision between the two eyes.

Deprivation

Obstruction of vision in one eye, such as from cataracts.

Patching Treatment

Patching treatment involves covering the stronger eye with a patch to force the use of the weaker eye. This stimulates visual development in the amblyopic eye and helps improve its visual acuity.

1 How it works
The patch is worn for a specified number of hours each day, depending on the severity of the amblyopia and the age of the child.
2 Effectiveness
Patching can be very effective, especially when started early. However, it requires consistent use and compliance from the child and parents.
3 Drawbacks
It can be uncomfortable and socially challenging for children, leading to non-compliance.

BYNOCS Treatment for Amblyopia

BYNOCS (Binocular Computerized System) is a modern treatment for amblyopia that uses computer-based exercises to stimulate the visual system and improve binocular vision.

How it works

BYNOCS employs a series of interactive, game-like exercises that are designed to be engaging and fun for children. These exercises stimulate both eyes simultaneously, encouraging binocular vision and coordination.

Advantages Over Patching

Engagement More enjoyable for children, leading to better compliance.

Binocular Vision Enhances binocular function and depth perception, unlike patching which focuses solely on the weaker eye

Efficiency Can be more effective in improving overall visual function in a shorter time frame.

Contraindications for BYNOCS Treatment

Severe Strabismus If the eyes are highly misaligned, BYNOCS may not be effective.

Untreated Eye Diseases Conditions such as active infections or severe cataracts need to be addressed first.

Very Young Children It may be challenging for very young children to engage with computer-based exercises.

Compliance Issues Requires the child's willingness and ability to participate in the exercises regularly.

Conclusion

At Shriram Super Speciality Eye Hospital, Dr. Arpit Shah and his team provide comprehensive care for amblyopia, including traditional treatments like patching and advanced options like BYNOCS. They assess each patient's unique needs to determine the most effective treatment plan.

For more information or to schedule an appointment, please contact Shriram Super Speciality Eye Hospital.