Causes and risk factors
Convergence excess occurs as a result of misalignment of eyes while focusing on near objects. The reason for this misalignment, however, is not clearly understood.
Clinical presentation
When focusing on a nearby object such as while reading, the patient tends to focus the eyes closer than required. This hampers the vision and hence the person tends to hold the book or object closer to himself in order to visualize it properly.
Having convergence excess makes focusing on close objects difficult. This hampers concentration and slows down the process of reading in children. The child strains his/her eyes, which eventually leads to a headache. He/she may experience diplopia (double vision). Other known symptoms of convergence excess include blurred vision, motion sickness, and dizziness.
Convergence excess frequently coexists with accommodative insufficiency, i.e., one has a reduced ability and stamina to focus.
Investigations
An eye exam conducted by a physician is adequate to make a diagnosis of convergence excess.
Treatment
Corrective spectacles are used to reduce symptoms caused due to excess of convergence.
Complications
If convergence excess is not addressed, it can lead to the development of myopia (short-sightedness).
When to contact a doctor
Contact a doctor as soon as you experience difficulty in reading or visualizing nearby objects.
Systems involved
Ophthalmology.
Organs involved
Eyes
