8 yr old with 6/9 vision

[diya31]

Dear dr.
I am writing this with regards to my sons eye checkup result. 2 days before we had a routine eye checkup for him and the dr told that he is having 6/9 vision in 1 eye and better than this but less than 6/6 in the other eye . The dr told he has minor astigmatism also. We have to again visit to the doctor to get the reading for his specs which she told have to be done in 2 sessions one normal and other one after adding an eye drops (which will cause blurred vision for 2 days). i would like to know is this a serious condition ?, and it is compulsory to wear the specs?  as of now he never complains of any problem in reading books , class room boards etc. he is the type who is more interested in computer games and watching cartoons. if we limit these activities whether it will improve his vision to 6/6? .. Please give me your expert opinion on this .

Thanks

[Doreen Fazio, M.D.]

It sounds as if the doctor is doing a cycloplegic refraction for your son, which is needed in children to obtain the proper prescription.  The prescription is measured after the dilating drops relax the pupil and prevent the eyes' natural focusing or accommodating muscles from working.  If the prescription shows a significant difference between the 2 eyes, then it is important for your child to wear the glasses, to prevent the development of amblyopia (lazy eye) in the eye with the stronger prescription requirement.  Patching of the better eye for a time might also be needed.  If the eye doctor is not a pediatric ophthalmologist, you might consider a consultation with one for a second opinion.  Limiting his computer games will not improve the vision.

[diya31]

Thanks a lot for your expert opinion.