Eye Strain: Can Muscle Tension Affect Eye Shape and Vision?

Q: Eye Strain: Can Muscle Tension Affect Eye Shape and Vision?

Hello： 1. <br>The issue of eye strain, since you are an adult, has a limited impact on myopia, although it can cause fatigue. <br>It also has a minimal effect on increasing intraocular pressure, so there is no need to be overly anxious. <br>2. <br>Unless there is intense physical

Troubled for a long time?

Doctor, I have been troubled by many questions for a long time, and I would appreciate your help in answering them.
Thank you.
1.
I previously asked other doctors whether the strength of the eye muscles (such as forcefully closing the eyes, tensing the muscles, or squinting) could cause deformation of the eyeball or harm to the eyes, and the answer was no.
However, I recently came across the following passage: “During near work such as reading or using a computer, the accommodative and convergence actions exert pressure on the eyeball from the extraocular muscles (primarily the medial rectus muscle), which can lead to an increase in intraocular pressure.
As the duration and frequency of these activities increase, the ciliary muscle and extraocular muscles may remain in a state of high tension, and excessive accommodation can cause ciliary muscle spasm, resulting in temporary vision reduction.
However, after resting or using cycloplegic agents, vision may improve and fully recover.
Therefore, some refer to this type of myopia as functional myopia or pseudomyopia.
Yet, with prolonged mechanical pressure from the extraocular muscles on the scleral tissue, the eyeball wall gradually elongates, leading to an increase in axial length and worsening myopia.” Does this statement imply that the strength of the eye muscles can change the shape of the eyeball? If I frequently tense my eyes, could it lead to deformation of the eyeball and worsening myopia?
2.
Does exerting force with the eyes, such as forcefully closing them, squinting, or moving the eyeballs, cause significant harm to the eyes and potentially lead to internal eye diseases?
3.
Regarding the previous question, do these actions of the eyes and emotional tension lead to increased intraocular pressure, potentially damaging the optic nerve?
I would greatly appreciate your answers to these questions, as they have made me hesitant to forcefully close my eyes, squint, or perform actions that cause convergence.
I have been troubled for a long time.
Thank you, doctor.

Wei, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/01/29

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology

Hello: 1.
The issue of eye strain, since you are an adult, has a limited impact on myopia, although it can cause fatigue.
It also has a minimal effect on increasing intraocular pressure, so there is no need to be overly anxious.
2.
Unless there is intense physical activity, your eyes are unlikely to sustain any injury.
3.
The impact will not be significant.
If you are concerned, you should have your intraocular pressure checked regularly.
Adequate rest is necessary, but there is no need to worry excessively.
Please avoid squinting frequently when looking at things if it is not necessary.
Thank you for your message.

Reply Date: 2015/01/29

More Info

Understanding the relationship between eye muscle tension, eye shape, and vision is a complex topic that has garnered much interest in both the medical community and among patients. Your concerns about whether muscle tension can affect eye shape and vision are valid, and I will address each of your questions in detail.

1. Can Eye Muscle Tension Change Eye Shape?
The short answer is that while muscle tension can influence the eye's function temporarily, it does not lead to permanent changes in eye shape. When you engage in activities that require intense focus, such as reading or working at a computer, the muscles around your eyes (particularly the ciliary muscles and extraocular muscles) may become tense. This tension can lead to temporary conditions like accommodative spasm, where the eye has difficulty focusing, resulting in blurred vision. However, this is a reversible condition. The eye's shape, particularly the sclera (the white part of the eye), does not change due to muscle tension alone.
The article you referenced discusses the phenomenon of "functional myopia" or "pseudomyopia," which occurs when the ciliary muscles are overworked. This condition can lead to temporary increases in myopia (nearsightedness) but does not cause permanent elongation of the eyeball or structural changes. After adequate rest or the use of cycloplegic agents (which temporarily paralyze the ciliary muscle), vision can return to baseline levels.
2. Do Actions Like Squinting or Closing the Eyes Cause Damage?
Using forceful actions like squinting or tightly closing your eyes does not typically cause harm to the internal structures of the eye. These actions are natural responses to bright light or to improve focus on nearby objects. While excessive squinting may lead to temporary discomfort or fatigue, it does not lead to structural damage or significant changes in eye health. However, if you find yourself squinting frequently, it may indicate an underlying vision problem that should be addressed by an eye care professional.

3. Does Muscle Tension and Emotional Stress Affect Intraocular Pressure?
Emotional stress and muscle tension can indeed lead to temporary increases in intraocular pressure (IOP). When you are stressed, the body goes into a "fight or flight" mode, which can cause various physiological changes, including muscle tension. This tension can lead to a transient increase in IOP, but it is usually not significant enough to cause damage to the optic nerve or lead to conditions like glaucoma in healthy individuals. However, for those with pre-existing conditions affecting the optic nerve, it is essential to manage stress and monitor IOP regularly.

In summary, while muscle tension can lead to temporary visual disturbances and discomfort, it does not cause permanent changes in eye shape or significant harm to the eye's internal structures. If you experience persistent issues with vision or discomfort, it is advisable to consult an eye care professional for a comprehensive examination. They can provide tailored advice and treatment options to address your concerns and ensure your eye health remains optimal. Remember, taking regular breaks during prolonged near-vision tasks and practicing good eye hygiene can help mitigate the effects of eye strain.

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