MEDICATIONS & VISION

Specialists in optometry can often be a primary source in helping design a game plan and for coordinating a team of people. When given the big picture, it’s easier to diagnose problem areas. For instance, medication affects vision. If you are taking medication which changes the nervous systems and alters visual test findings, your eyes will not measure the same way as when you are not on the medication.

HOW MEDICATIONS AFFECT VISION

CHILDREN:
As much as we'd all like to eliminate the need for medications, sometimes it's just not possible or realistic. Contrary to popular beliefs, parents are not quick to jump to medicating their young children. A parent is the child's most vocal advocate. Every parent that walks into this office has the identical goal. They all want what’s best for their children. They want their children to learn and have a positive life.

Medicine can change responses in the visual systems. A mild shift or alteration can affect:

• Attention
• Motivation
• Concentration

ADULTS:
As we all know, the pace that adult bodies change is quickly (sometimes too quickly). Sometimes, medicine is necessary to help our bodies heal from strokes, heart disease, obesity, depression, head injuries, and common aches and pains from the aging process. It is important to list all the medications you are currently taking, since your visual systems change dramatically as you age.

Some common side effects from medications are:

• Blurred Vision
• Double Vision
• Balance difficulties
• Memory problems
• Dizziness