Can Eye Disparity Be Corrected After Childhood Vision Changes?

Can binocular disparity still be corrected?

Hello, Doctor: When I was younger, my vision was quite good; I remember it fluctuated around 1.0 and 0.9 for a long time.
I can't recall when I started experiencing diplopia.
The last vision check was about two years ago, where my right eye was 0.4 and my left eye was 0.7 or 0.8 (I guess I am already nearsighted, right?).
I have a clearer memory of being scolded by a nurse at the health center around fifth or sixth grade, but I never sought vision correction for over 20 years and considered myself not nearsighted, so I never wore glasses.
Although I found it somewhat challenging to see the blackboard and projector in class, I managed until graduation.
I could still clearly discern road conditions while riding my scooter.
Recently, when I accompanied a friend to get glasses, I realized that my diplopia seemed to be getting worse.
I looked online and found that after the age of 7, diplopia usually cannot be corrected, and I also heard that vision stabilizes after adulthood and doesn't change much.
Does this mean I can only get glasses? I've been accustomed to life without glasses for 20 years.
Doctor, if I don't get glasses, will it affect my eyes in the future? I want to seek a consultation, but I feel that the doctor will just check my vision and tell me to get glasses...
Besides laser treatment, is there no hope for my right eye's vision?

Miss Yan, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/08/09

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology

Hello Ms.
Yan,
Recently, your vision check showed 0.4 in your right eye and 0.7 to 0.8 in your left eye.
Poor visual acuity does not necessarily indicate myopia, as conditions like hyperopia and astigmatism can also lead to decreased vision.
A comprehensive eye exam is needed to determine the exact prescription.
However, if you can see clearly up close but not at a distance, it is likely that you have myopia.

The reference to age seven or eight means that if amblyopia (lazy eye) is present, it cannot be corrected after that age.
After reaching adulthood, your prescription typically stabilizes.
However, since you have not been wearing glasses, the myopia in your right eye may have worsened, leading to an increasing disparity between the two eyes.
Once myopia develops, it cannot be reversed; to achieve good vision, you will need to wear glasses with the appropriate prescription.

If you are resistant to wearing glasses, you might consider contact lenses or orthokeratology lenses.
If you are not interested in those options, laser surgery may be the only alternative.

The ophthalmology department at Puzi Hospital in Taiwan is available on the following schedule:
Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday mornings from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM, and Wednesday afternoons from 2:00 PM to 4:30 PM.
Please note that online responses are for reference only, and it is essential to seek medical attention at a healthcare facility if necessary.

I hope to have the opportunity to assist you.
Best regards,
Gao Pilin

Reply Date: 2019/08/09

More Info

The concern regarding eye disparity and vision changes in adulthood is a common one, especially for individuals who have experienced shifts in their vision over time. Based on your description, it appears that you have been aware of some vision issues since your childhood, but have not sought corrective measures until recently. Let's delve into your questions and concerns regarding eye disparity, vision correction, and the implications of not wearing glasses.

1. Understanding Eye Disparity: Eye disparity, or the difference in visual acuity between the two eyes, can arise from various factors, including refractive errors (like myopia or hyperopia), amblyopia (lazy eye), or even structural issues within the eye. In your case, it seems that your right eye has a significantly lower visual acuity compared to your left eye, which could indicate a refractive error or possibly amblyopia, especially if this disparity has been present since childhood.

2. Age and Vision Correction: It is true that the visual system is more adaptable during childhood. The critical period for vision development typically occurs before the age of 7, and significant changes in visual acuity can be more easily corrected during this time. After this period, while some improvements can still be made, the likelihood of fully correcting significant disparities diminishes. However, this does not mean that corrective measures, such as glasses or contact lenses, will not benefit you. They can help improve your overall visual function and comfort, even if they do not completely equalize the vision between your two eyes.

3. Impact of Not Wearing Glasses: If you choose not to wear corrective lenses, you may experience several consequences. Over time, uncorrected vision can lead to increased eye strain, headaches, and difficulty with tasks that require clear vision, such as reading or driving. Additionally, if there is a significant disparity between your eyes, your brain may begin to favor the stronger eye, potentially leading to further deterioration of the weaker eye's function. This phenomenon is known as "suppression," where the brain ignores input from the weaker eye to avoid double vision.

4. Options Beyond Glasses: While glasses are the most common form of correction, there are other options available. Contact lenses can provide a more natural field of vision and may be more comfortable for some individuals. Additionally, refractive surgery, such as LASIK, may be an option for those who are suitable candidates. However, it is essential to have a thorough evaluation by an eye care professional to determine the best course of action based on your specific condition.

5. Seeking Professional Help: It is advisable to consult with an eye care specialist who can perform a comprehensive eye examination. This examination will help identify the underlying causes of your vision changes and provide tailored recommendations. If amblyopia or another condition is diagnosed, the specialist can discuss potential treatments, which may include vision therapy or other interventions aimed at improving visual acuity.

In conclusion, while it may be more challenging to correct significant eye disparity after childhood, there are still effective options available to improve your vision. Wearing corrective lenses, whether glasses or contacts, can greatly enhance your quality of life and visual comfort. It is essential to seek professional advice to explore all available options and make informed decisions regarding your eye health.

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