3D movies and television are becoming more and more prevalent, but some people are left out of the loop. Not everyone’s eyes allow him or her to see in 3D, a condition commonly called stereoblindness. CNN reported in 2010 that the number of people unable to see in 3D could be up to 10% of the general seeing population.
New Ways to Watch 3D
Researchers at St Andrews University in Scotland are experimenting with ways to share the 3D experience with those who suffer from stereoblindness. This includes 3D glasses that use a lens for just one eye. With this lens, viewers look through a small hole, called an aperture, to view the screen.
While this is surely exciting news for those who are stereoblind, many people who are stereoblind have an underlying vision problem that should be overseen by a qualified ophthalmologist. Treating their condition could cure their inability to see in 3D, among other things.
Strabismus Can Cause Stereoblindness
One of the main causes for stereoblindness is strabismus. Strabismus is a condition where the eyes are misaligned. It is commonly called being cross-eyed or having a wandering eye, though not all who have strabismus appear to have the condition. It usually occurs in childhood and can usually be corrected through vision therapy or wearing lenses, though some cases require surgery.
With strabismus, the misalignment of the eyes means that they are unable to work together to process signals from the outside world. This can cause the weaker eye to stop receiving messages from the brain so that the stronger eye can continue functioning normally. Strabismus can continue into adulthood if not treated in childhood. Some people can also develop strabismus during adulthood.
It is widely believed that the actor Johnny Depp suffers from strabismus. He has admitted in interviews, including one with Access Hollywood, that he is unable to see even his own movies in 3D because he has an eye that doesn’t work correctly.
Strabismus is also treatable for adults. The course of action depends on the severity of the problem. Milder cases may require lenses and vision exercises while more severe cases may require surgery.
If you have problems with depth perception or seeing in 3D, you should contact your eye doctor in Gainesville to see what treatments are available for your condition.