What You Need to Know About Anisometropia

Anisometropia is a condition in which your eyes have different refractive powers. It generally occurs when one eye is a different size or shape than the other, resulting in asymmetric farsightedness or asymmetric nearsightedness. A common cause of amblyopia, commonly known as lazy eye, anisometropia can manifest a series of symptoms and can be treated using a variety of methods.

In this article, a reputable vision care center specializing in eye exam and treatment, discusses the important things you need to know about anisometropia.

Causes 

Anisometropia has no definitive root cause, but having eyes that are significantly different in size—especially if the refraction of the eyes varies by more than 1 diopter—can be a contributing factor. Even individuals with normal, healthy vision may have up to a 5% difference in refractive power in their eyes, but those with a greater difference are more likely to develop the condition.

Types

An eye doctor cites simple anisometropia, compound anisometropia and mixed anisometropia as the three types of anisometropia. Simple anisometropia occurs when only one eye has a refractive error, causing it to see a blurry image; compound anisometropia occurs when both eyes are either farsighted or myopic nearsighted, causing both eyes to see blurry image; and mixed anisometropia occurs when both eyes have refractive errors, one being nearsighted and the other being farsighted.

Risk Factors

Anisometropia affects binocular vision. This means that individuals who have it can see one larger image in one eye and one smaller in the other. This condition is normally diagnosed during childhood and, if left untreated for a long period of time, can cause poor depth perception, headaches, dizziness and visual discomfort.

Treatment

Fortunately, anisometropia can be treated using a variety of methods, including corrective lenses and laser eye surgery. An eye doctor will determine which treatment option is best suited for your condition depending on its severity.

Nova Vision Center is a team of eye care professionals specializing in anisometropia treatment, macular degeneration treatment and prescription eyeglasses. Call us today at 980-399-6071 or visit our website to request an appointment. Our service areas include Arlington and Falls Church, VA.