obsolete asthenopia

Obsolete Asthenopia: A Historical Perspective

Obsolete asthenopia, also known as weak sightedness or Gesichtschwäche in German, is a term that was once used to describe a group of symptoms related to eye strain and fatigue. According to historical records [10], the term "asthenopia" came into use just one hundred years ago, with MacKenzie adopting it as the best term to designate this condition.

Symptoms

The symptoms associated with obsolete asthenopia include excessive tearing, itching, burning, visual fatigue, and headache [4-9]. These symptoms can be caused by an uncorrected refractive error, which can lead to eye strain and discomfort.

Comparison with Modern Asthenopia

While the term "obsolete" suggests that this condition is no longer relevant today, the symptoms described are still similar to those experienced in modern asthenopia. In fact, many of the symptoms listed, such as eye pain, soreness, dryness, and blurred vision, are still commonly associated with asthenopia today [13].

Historical Significance

The use of the term "obsolete" to describe this condition highlights its historical significance. The fact that it was once a widely recognized term suggests that eye strain and fatigue were significant concerns in the past.

References: [4-9] Various sources describing symptoms of asthenopia [10] Historical context on the origin of the term "asthenopia" [13] Modern description of asthenopia symptoms

Obsolescence of Asthenopia

Asthenopia, also known as eye strain or eye fatigue, was a condition that affected individuals who engaged in prolonged visual activities such as reading, writing, or using digital devices. However, with the advancement of technology and changes in human behavior, asthenopia has become less relevant.

Historical Context

In the past, asthenopia was a common issue among people who spent extended periods working on computers, reading books, or engaging in other visually demanding activities. The symptoms included eye discomfort, headaches, blurred vision, and sensitivity to light (1, 5, 9). However, with the widespread adoption of digital devices and changes in work habits, the prevalence of asthenopia has decreased.

Modern Alternatives

Today, people are more likely to experience other visual-related issues such as computer vision syndrome (CVS) or digital eye strain. These conditions share similar symptoms with asthenopia but are distinct entities (10, 11). The increasing use of digital devices and the shift towards more comfortable working environments have contributed to a decline in the incidence of traditional asthenopia.

Current Understanding

While asthenopia is no longer a prominent concern, its legacy lives on in the form of modern visual-related issues. Researchers continue to study the effects of prolonged screen time and develop strategies to mitigate eye strain and other related problems (12, 13). As technology advances, it's essential to adapt and address emerging concerns, ensuring that individuals can work and engage in activities without compromising their eye health.

References

1. Sep 29, 2022 — When eye muscles are fixed on one object or task for long periods, blurry vision, headaches, and eye strain may result as a consequence.
2. a burning sensation in your eyes · blurred eyesight, or double vision · difficulty concentrating · sensitivity to light · headache · sore neck, shoulders or back due ...
3. Eye strain symptoms · Soreness of the eyes · Dryness and discomfort · Blurry, hazy vision · Sore back and neck · Double vision · Difficulty focusing and concentrating ...
4. What is asthenopia? Asthenopia is the technical name for eye strain or eye fatigue.
5. Asthenopia Definition. Eyestrain; Subjective symptoms of ocular fatigue, discomfort, lacrimation, and headaches arising from the use of eyes.
6. Vision therapy aims to alleviate the symptoms of asthenopia by training the eyes to work together harmoniously, enhancing visual stamina, and ultimately reducing strain and fatigue experienced during activities like reading, using digital devices, or engaging in close-up work.
7. Furthermore, signs in CI for example can exist for years without any symptoms, which may disappear entirely while the signs remain unaltered (Wajuihian & Hansraj 2016).

Asthenopia, also known as eye strain or fatigue, can be diagnosed through various tests to rule out underlying eye conditions or refractive errors that may be contributing to the symptoms.

Visual Acuity Assessment A visual acuity assessment is typically the first step in diagnosing asthenopia. This test gauges the clarity of vision and helps identify any significant impairments [10]. A comprehensive eye exam, which includes vision testing, is also essential in evaluating the condition [7].

Cover-Uncover Test The cover-uncover test is a useful diagnostic tool for detecting heterophoria, which can be associated with asthenopia. This test should be performed both for near and far vision using a prism bar or a cover slip [13].

Near Point of Convergence (NPC) Test The NPC test measures the distance at which an individual can comfortably converge their eyes while focusing on a target. This test is subjective and dependent on effort, but it can provide valuable information in diagnosing convergence insufficiency, which may be associated with asthenopia [11].

Accommodative Facility Tests Accommodative facility tests, such as those measuring accommodative lead and lag, are also important in making a proper diagnosis of asthenopia. These tests assess the ability of the eyes to focus on objects at different distances [14].

Other Diagnostic Tests In addition to these tests, other diagnostic tools may be used to rule out underlying eye conditions or refractive errors that could be contributing to asthenopia symptoms. These include visual field testing and retinoscopy.

It's essential to note that the diagnosis of asthenopia is often based on a combination of these tests and a thorough medical history. A comprehensive eye exam by an eye care professional is necessary to accurately diagnose and treat this condition.

References: [10] Tests to Diagnose Asthenopia [11] Convergence insufficiency (CI) is a binocular vision disorder characterized by difficulty maintaining fusion while looking at a near target due to a tendency of the eyes to drift outwards. [13] Literally, the term asthenopia means weakness, or debility, of the eyes or vision, so the term may be best confined to describing symptoms arising from a visual or ocular anomaly, rather than from purely extrinsic (e.g., environmental) factors. [14] Several tests are useful in the diagnosis of AI, including negative relative accommodation (NRA), near the point of convergence (NPC), and positive relative accommodation (PRA).

Treatment Options for Asthenopia

While treatment options have evolved over time, some older methods are still mentioned in medical literature. However, it's essential to note that these may not be the most effective or recommended treatments today.

• Atropine and Mydriatic Drops: In the past, patients with asthenopia were prescribed drops containing atropine or mydriatic agents to relax the ciliary muscle and relieve spasm of accommodation [11]. However, this treatment is no longer commonly used due to its potential side effects.
• Other Medications: Some older medications, such as topiramate, which was used to treat headaches, may have been prescribed for asthenopia in the past. However, these medications can cause angle closure glaucoma and require pressure measurements [9].

Important Note

It's crucial to consult a medical professional for proper diagnosis and treatment of asthenopia. Modern treatments focus on addressing underlying causes, correcting vision problems, and making environmental adjustments to alleviate symptoms.

References:

[11] Asthenopia treatment is aimed at eliminating and preventing the causes of the disorder, as well as restoring the normal functioning of the eye... (Context 11) [9] Some medications used to treat headaches such as topiramate may cause angle closure glaucoma, and pressure measurements may be required if orbital symptoms ... (Context 9)

Asthenopia, also known as eye strain or ocular asthenopia, can be caused by various factors including uncorrected refractive errors, latent strabismus, anomalies of accommodation and convergence [1]. When considering the differential diagnosis for asthenopia, it's essential to rule out other conditions that may present with similar symptoms.

Possible Differential Diagnoses:

• Uncorrected Refractive Errors: Uncorrected hyperopia (farsightedness), myopia (nearsightedness), or presbyopia can lead to eye strain and asthenopia [2].
• Latent Strabismus: Unconscious strabismus, where the eyes are not aligned properly, can cause asthenopia due to the constant effort of the brain to correct for the misalignment.
• Anomalies of Accommodation and Convergence: Abnormalities in how the eyes focus (accommodate) or move together (converge) can lead to eye strain and asthenopia [1].
• Refractive Errors with Anisometropia: Significant differences between the two eyes' refractive powers can cause asthenopia due to the brain's difficulty in combining images from both eyes.
• Other Conditions: Certain conditions like dry eye, blepharitis, or even migraines can also present with symptoms similar to asthenopia.

Key Points:

• Asthenopia is often caused by uncorrected refractive errors or other vision-related issues [1][2].
• Differential diagnosis for asthenopia involves ruling out other conditions that may cause similar symptoms.
• Anomalies of accommodation and convergence, latent strabismus, and refractive errors with anisometropia are potential differential diagnoses.

References:

[1] SI Murthy (2020) - Uncorrected refractive errors, latent strabismus, anomalies of accommodation and convergence can lead to ocular asthenopia. [2] S Majumdar (2023) - Differential diagnosis of hyperopia includes uncorrected refractive errors as a possible cause.