Aphantasia Could Be Diagnosed Based on Pupil Size

 

Pupil size fluctuates to let just the right amount of light into the eye. Vision is improved by contracting the brightness and dilating in the dark. New research shows that beyond light changes, pupil size might also change based on perceptual and cognitive circumstances. 

Mental imagery was shown to facilitate pupillary responses to light in this study published in the Association for Psychological Science (APS). 

Another study, published in the Journal of Vision (JoV), suggests the pupil constricts in response to a high-light luminance object in a photo, such as the sun. 

A condition known as aphantasia is diagnosed as the inability to produce mental images in the mind. Aphantasia can stem from birth or manifest later in life, despite being otherwise healthy. Researchers studied pupillary responses of people who experience aphantasia to better understand how the brain’s visual and ocular reflexes work.

The study, published in eLife, compared the pupillary responses of people with and without aphantasia. 

Professor Julia Simner leads the MULTISENSE lab at the University of Sussex and was not involved in the study. After analyzing the data, she said, “The fascinating finding reported here is that people imagining light or dark objects show the same type of pupillary action as we would normally find when the eyes are exposed to light and dark objects in the real world. This suggests that their imagination is treated [as] a simulation of the real world. [Meanwhile,] people with aphantasia — who imagine in a more abstract way because they cannot build a picture in their mind’s eye — don’t show the same effect.”

The study participants were asked to imagine 32 white or gray shapes while their pupil size was measured. Other experiments were conducted, as well as a questionnaire. Researchers concluded that people without aphantasia reacted to perceived and imagined luminous images, which affected their pupillary size. Those with aphantasia did not note a change in pupillary size when perceiving or imagining luminous images. 

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Rohr Eye & Laser Center offers the most advanced technology available to provide personalized and extraordinary care to our patients. Whether your goal is to maintain or improve your natural vision, we are here to help you. Call us at 877-579-0202 to learn more.

Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com

How to Minimize Anxiety Before a Lasik Procedure

 

Fear and anxiety commonly surround Lasik procedures, and most of the time, it’s purely based on the unknown. One of the most beneficial tactics to combat nervousness about surgery is to inform yourself thoroughly about the procedures.  

Lasik is a quick and painless procedure that generally takes around 15 minutes, and the laser usually touches the eye’s surface for only a few seconds. Most patients are worried about sneezing or coughing, causing injury or bad results. 

Fortunately, complications from Lasik surgery are extremely rare. Also, there are procedures in place that help prevent sudden movements during the process. An intricate laser system monitors even the slightest eye movement and adjusts the laser accordingly, with pinpoint accuracy.

Lasik has a growing track record, as it’s been used successfully for more than two decades. Lasik has the highest success rate of any elective procedure, with a 96 percent satisfaction rate reported in 2016. 

Specialists are trained to support patients through the entire process from start to finish. Laser eye surgeons will supply the patient with information on what to do the day before, the day of, and after the procedure. By being wholly informed and knowing what to expect, patients will undoubtedly feel more at ease about the procedure. 

Deep breathing exercises are always recommended for patients who experience anxiety or stress. It’s imperative to practice the technique a few days prior to surgery. Slow and steady breathing is key. 

Friends or family members can also accompany the patient to provide emotional support and help them through post-surgery. These guests can provide comfort for the patient to keep the mind occupied or remain calm before the procedure. 

Anesthetic drops will numb the eyes, and the physician can provide low doses of anti-anxiety medication if necessary. Overall, Lasik is a painless procedure; most clients report more than slight pressure if anything at all. 

 

Life without contacts or glasses is possible. Lasik surgery is easier than you think. Contact the experts at Rohr Eye & Laser Center today to learn more. 

Rohr Eye & Laser Center offers the most advanced technology available to provide personalized and extraordinary care to our patients. Whether your goal is to maintain or improve your natural vision, we are here to help you. Call us at 877-579-0202 to learn more.

Written by the digital marketing team at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com