Eagleview Eye Clinic

Tag cycloplegia

CYCLOPLEGIC REFRACTION

Cycloplegic refraction is an eye exam that temporarily paralyzes the ciliary muscle, relaxing the eye’s focusing power. This helps determine the true refractive error, especially in children or those with accommodative esotropia.

Key uses:

  1. Accurate prescription for glasses or contact lenses
  2. Diagnosing amblyopia or strabismus
  3. Managing accommodative esotropia
CYCLOPLEGIC DRUGS

👨‍⚕️ Cycloplegic drugs paralyze the ciliary muscle, blocking accommodation (focusing) and dilating the pupil. Used in eye exams, treating uveitis, or managing amblyopia.

Common examples:

  1. Atropine (long-acting, 1–2 weeks)
    • Use: Amblyopia, uveitis.
    • Side effect: Dry mouth, blurred vision.
  2. Cyclopentolate (shorter, 24–48h)
    • Use: Pediatric exams, refraction.
    • Risk: Hallucinations in kids.
  3. Tropicamide (fast, 4–6h)
    • Use: Routine dilation.
    • Mildest side effects.
  4. Homatropine (moderate duration)
    • Use: Uveitis, post-surgery.

Precautions:

  • Avoid driving post-use.
  • Monitor IOP (glaucoma risk).
  • Children/elderly: Adjust doses.
  • Contraindicated: Narrow-angle glaucoma.

CYCLOPLEGIA

🔍 Cycloplegia is the temporary paralysis of the ciliary muscle, which controls the eye’s focusing (accommodation).

Key effects:

  1. Blurry near vision
  2. Difficulty focusing on close objects
  3. Pupil dilation (mydriasis)
  4. No pain, but uncomfortable for reading/near work

Common causes:

  1. Medications: Cyclopentolate, atropine (used in eye exams)
  2. Infections: Viral (e.g., herpes zoster)
  3. Trauma
  4. Toxins (e.g., botulinum)
  5. Conditions: Adie’s tonic pupil

Management:

  • Reversible (lasts hours–days, depending on cause)
  • Use glasses for near tasks
  • Avoid driving until resolved
  • Consult an eye doctor if persistent 😎.