From the Guidelines
A 10-year-old with astigmatism who doesn't wear her prescription glasses may experience several long-term effects, including persistent eye strain, headaches, and potential worsening of vision, which can be prevented by consistent use of prescribed glasses, as emphasized by the American Academy of Ophthalmology 1. The child's visual development could be compromised during this critical period, possibly leading to amblyopia (lazy eye) if the astigmatism is significant. Some key points to consider include:
- The importance of early detection and treatment of vision problems, as highlighted by the USPSTF 1
- The potential for uncorrected astigmatism to force the eye muscles to work harder to focus, causing fatigue and discomfort that can become chronic over time
- The need for regular eye exams to monitor any changes in prescription and ensure optimal visual development, as recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics 1
- The potential impact of poor vision on academic performance, social development, and self-confidence Key considerations for parents and caregivers include:
- Ensuring the child wears the prescribed glasses consistently
- Monitoring the child's vision and reporting any changes or concerns to an eye care professional
- Encouraging regular eye exams to ensure optimal visual development As noted in a recent study, early treatment of amblyogenic risk factors, including strabismus, refractive error, and cataracts, can prevent amblyopia 1, and the American Academy of Ophthalmology recommends periodic vision screening for asymptomatic children 1.
From the Research
Long-term Effects of Not Wearing Prescription Glasses
The long-term effects of a 10-year-old with astigmatism not wearing her prescription glasses can be significant. Some potential effects include:
- Reduced visual performance in various clinical vision measures and functional visual tasks 2
- Increased risk of developing amblyopia, particularly if the astigmatism is left uncorrected during childhood 2, 3
- Potential development of spherical refractive errors in addition to astigmatism 2
- Possible long-term adaptations in the visual system that may reduce the perceived impact of astigmatism on vision, but can still lead to substantial reductions in visual performance 2
Impact on Visual Development
Uncorrected astigmatism in childhood can significantly impact visual development, leading to:
- Amblyopia, which can result in permanent vision loss if left untreated 2, 3
- Delayed or impaired visual maturation, which can affect overall visual function and quality of life 2
Importance of Correction
The significant visual and functional impacts of astigmatism emphasize the importance of its reliable clinical management 2. Correction of astigmatism, whether through glasses, contact lenses, or surgery, can help to: