Convergence Insufficiency
Convergence insufficiency (CI) is a condition that affects eye coordination, making it difficult for an individual to properly align their eyes when focusing on nearby objects. Some individuals may struggle to bring their eyes together (converge), while others may not be able to sustain convergence for long periods. This can lead to discomfort, eye strain, and even double vision when performing close-up tasks like reading or working on a computer.
Convergence is a visual skill that is developed over time. While some individuals naturally develop strong convergence abilities, others may struggle with it, leading to visual challenges.
Symptoms of Convergence Insufficiency
People with CI may experience symptoms while engaging in near-point activities. These symptoms tend to worsen with increased visual effort and fatigue.
Common symptoms include:
- Eye strain
- Headaches
- Double vision
- Blurry vision
- Difficulty maintaining focus while reading
- Frequently losing place when reading
- Avoiding close-up tasks
- Poor performance in sports
Less common symptoms include:
- Dizziness or motion sickness
- General fatigue
The severity of symptoms can vary from mild discomfort to significant visual challenges that make it difficult to perform near tasks effectively.
Can Adults Have Convergence Insufficiency?
Yes, convergence insufficiency occurs in both children and adults. Although there are no large-scale epidemiological studies on CI in adults, it is a recognized condition that can be diagnosed and treated at any age.
How Is Convergence Insufficiency Diagnosed?
- While CI can be relatively straightforward to diagnose, not all eye care professionals include specific diagnostic tests for it in routine eye exams. If an individual suspects they may have CI, they should discuss their symptoms with an optometrist and request a functional vision exam to determine if they have convergence insufficiency.
- If an individual does not have an optometrist or has symptoms but no confirmed diagnosis, they can schedule a functional vision assessment with our team.
- Convergence excess (CE) is another eye teaming issue. Unlike convergence insufficiency, where the eyes struggle to come together, individuals with CE over-converge when looking at a near object. This means their eyes focus on a point closer than the actual target. For example, if a book is held 15 inches away, their eyes may converge at a point only 13 inches away.
- Ideally, both eyes should align accurately on the target to ensure clear and efficient vision.
Causes of Convergence Excess
Like CI, convergence excess is caused by poor control of eye coordination. While individuals with CE can converge their eyes, they do so excessively, leading to visual strain and discomfort.
Symptoms of Convergence Excess
People with CE experience symptoms similar to those of CI, especially during close-up tasks like reading or using a computer. Although they can complete near tasks, they often tire quickly compared to those without vision issues.
Common symptoms include:
- Eye strain or fatigue
- Headaches
- Double vision
- Blurry vision
- Losing place while reading
- Difficulty focusing on text
- Avoidance of close-up tasks
- Poor sports performance
Less common symptoms include:
- Dizziness or motion sickness
- General fatigue
The severity of symptoms can vary from mild discomfort to significant visual challenges that make it difficult to perform near tasks effectively.
Treatment for Convergence Insufficiency and Convergence Excess
The treatment approach for CI and CE varies based on the severity of the condition and whether other functional vision problems (such as eye focusing or movement issues) are present. Treatment options include:
- Prescription Lenses : In some cases, specially designed lenses can help improve near-point tasks. These lenses differ from traditional prescriptions used for nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism. Instead of improving clarity, they enhance visual performance during reading and other close-up activities.
- Light Therapy (Syntonics) : Syntonic therapy uses specific wavelengths of light to improve vision function. Patients view a prescribed color of light for a short period each day, based on the findings of a functional vision exam. This therapy can help improve eye coordination and visual processing.
- Vision Therapy : Vision therapy involves a series of exercises designed to strengthen eye coordination and improve convergence abilities. These exercises train the eyes to work together more effectively, reducing symptoms and improving overall visual comfort.
By addressing convergence issues through tailored treatments, individuals can experience significant relief from discomfort and improve their ability to perform everyday tasks. If you suspect you have a vision problem, schedule an evaluation with us to explore potential solutions.