Valuation of ocular accommodation, convergence and fusional vergence changes during Ramadan

ABSTRACT

There are a few researches regarding the effects of Islamic fasting on visual system. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of Ramadan fasting on the amplitude of accommodation [AA], near point of convergence [NPC], positive and negative fusional vergences [PFV and NFV, respectively] in visually healthy fasters. AA, NPC, PFV and NFV at far [6m] and near [40cm] were measured in 30 male students. Nutritional habits in a week before each examination visit were assessed with the Food Frequency Questionnaire [FFQ]. Mean age and fasting average experience were 23.9 and 10 years, respectively. AA and NPC showed significant changes [p<0.05] during Ramadan; but there was no significant difference before and after Ramadan in these parameters. NFV blur, break and recovery points at far significantly reduced in Ramadan than before [p=0.003, p=0.005, p=0.003, respectively] with insignificant compensation after Ramadan. Results showed that there was no significant correlation between changes in diet pattern and AA, NPC and distant NFV variations [p<0.05]. Some visual problems may be reported at far and near visual tasks during Ramadan; but most of the problems may be resolved after it. Some visual preparations may be needed for more effective visual activities during Ramadan; essentially for students with intensive visual tasks. Vision therapy may be suggested along with nutrient pattern improvement during Ramadan