Asthenopic is a medical term used to describe eye strain or fatigue. The correct spelling of this word is [as-then-op-ik], with the stress on the second syllable. The word is derived from the Greek words "astheneia" meaning weakness or debility, and "ops" meaning sight or eye. The phonetic transcription of the word reflects the pronunciation, with "a" pronounced as /æ/, "th" as /θ/, "e" as /ɛ/, "o" as /ɑ/, and "i" as /ɪ/.
Asthenopic is an adjective used to describe a condition or symptoms related to asthenopia, which is also known as eye strain or visual fatigue. Asthenopia is characterized by temporary discomfort or pain in the eyes, often caused by prolonged use of the eyes for activities such as reading, writing, or computer use. It is a condition that commonly occurs in individuals who spend long hours performing close-up work or those exposed to bright lights or glare.
The term asthenopic can also refer to symptoms experienced as a result of astigmatism, presbyopia, or other visual disturbances. These symptoms may include eye strain, soreness, blurred or double vision, headache, difficulty focusing, or general fatigue. Additionally, asthenopic symptoms may be worsened by factors such as lack of proper lighting, poor posture, improper screen viewing distance, or uncorrected refractive errors.
Management and prevention strategies for asthenopia often involve taking frequent breaks during visually demanding tasks, ensuring proper lighting conditions, maintaining an appropriate distance from screens, and integrating ergonomic practices. Additionally, wearing corrective lenses or using prescription glasses specifically designed for close-up tasks can provide relief in some cases. However, it is recommended to consult with an eye care professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan for asthenopic symptoms.
Relating to or suffering from asthenopia.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "asthenopic" is formed from two Greek roots: "asthenes" and "ops".
1. The root "asthenes" (ἀσθενής) in Greek means "weak" or "feeble". It is derived from the negative prefix "a-" and the root "sthenos" meaning "strength" or "power".
2. The root "ops" (ὄψ) means "eye", which can also refer to "sight" or "vision".
Combining these two roots, "asthenopic" is formed to describe a condition related to weak or strained vision, particularly in relation to specific activities such as reading or using a computer for prolonged periods.