Stress can affect vision in anyone, and in children this may present as Streff Syndrome. Also known as non-malingering syndrome, Streff Syndrome is not an abnormality with the structure or function of the eyes, rather it has been associated with the brain and how it processes what is seen. Typically exhibited in children and adolescents experiencing periods of stress, it may involve blurred vision, reduced near and distance vision, and poor eye movement, as well as behavioural issues such as poor concentration, refusal to go to school, clinginess, or even withdrawal from once-loved activities.
The Causes
Primarily, Streff Syndrome is associated with stress. When a child is under stress, whether it is due to bullying, studying, anxiety, or family issues, their eye health can start to deteriorate. The issue is closely related to the brain and the way the vision is processed within it. While the visual system is still active, it isn’t controlled by the child. Focusing becomes difficult, a tunnel vision effect may arise, and pupils my struggle to function adequately during various light conditions.
Symptoms:
The symptoms of Streff Syndrome are not necessarily vision specific. A sudden reduction in attention and focus or decline in academic performance, along with melancholic and erratic behaviour are often noticed by parents and teachers. Visually, a child may experience:
- Blurred vision when trying to focus near and far distances
- Double vision
- Sensitivity to light
- Difficulty focusing
How Can it Be Treated?
The key is to identify the cause of stress and take the necessary action to resolve the problem. Too much stress can negatively affect a child in several ways, not just in their vision, so it’s critical that steps are taken to address it. Work together with the child, their teachers, and a healthcare professional to establish the source of the emotional strain and determine a management plan to minimise the stress the child is under.
A child may also benefit from the use of low plus eyewear in the form of reading glasses or multi-focals, as well as vision therapy to help increase peripheral awareness, focusing and eye movements.
Diagnosing Streff Syndrome
As this condition is a functional eye problem, it can be commonly mistaken as a behavioural issue. Therefore, parents must be vigilant with their child’s behaviour, and seek medical assistance if any noticeable changes occur. A sudden decline in academic performance, a regression into earlier behaviours (such as thumb-sucking), and poor concentration, in conjunction with complaints of vision issues must be seen too quickly. An optometrist will be able to perform a vision examination to identify that the symptoms are truly psychogenic and not from significant refractive error or pathology. They will determine the best management solutions for the eyes and refer you to a doctor or healthcare professional for further assistance.
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If you have any concerns about your child’s vision, visit your nearest Abernethy Owens practice to speak with one of our highly qualified Optometrists or Optical dispensers. Whether you’re looking for an experienced Myopia clinic, or you need help with dry eyes, spectacle repairs, or other eye health problems, we are here to help. Book online now or call us on 1800 411 744.