Which term describes a tendency for the eye to turn downward?

The term that describes a tendency for the eye to turn downward is hypophoria. This condition refers specifically to a subtle misalignment where one eye tends to drift downward relative to the other eye. Hypophoria can often go unnoticed without a clinical examination, as it is not always physically apparent and can be compensated for by the visual system.

Understanding this term is important in the context of binocular vision and strabismus assessments, as it directly relates to how eye alignment affects visual perception. In clinical practice, identifying conditions like hypophoria is crucial as it can lead to symptoms such as double vision or difficulty with depth perception if not addressed appropriately.

The other terms listed have different meanings related to visual impairments or conditions. For example, axial ametropia refers to conditions in which the length of the eyeball is either too long or too short, affecting focus and clarity of vision. Refractive ametropia pertains to issues with how light is focused onto the retina—common types include myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism. Simple astigmatism is a refractive error caused by an irregularly shaped cornea or lens, leading to blurred vision.

Recognizing hypophoria and its impact on visual health