Does Wearing Glasses While Reading Increase Myopia Progression? - Ophthalmology

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When it comes to the question of whether wearing glasses while reading can influence the progression of myopia (nearsightedness), it is essential to consider various factors that contribute to myopia development and progression. Myopia is primarily caused by the elongation of the eyeball, which leads to light being focused in front of the retina rather than directly on it. This condition can be exacerbated by prolonged near work, such as reading or using digital devices, especially in children and adolescents whose eyes are still developing.

Wearing glasses while reading can actually help mitigate the strain on your eyes. If you have a prescription for myopia, wearing the appropriate corrective lenses allows you to see clearly at close distances, which can reduce the tendency to squint or strain your eyes. Squinting can lead to increased eye fatigue and discomfort, which may indirectly contribute to the progression of myopia. Therefore, wearing glasses that are correctly prescribed for your level of myopia is generally advisable when engaging in near work like reading.

On the other hand, not wearing glasses while reading, especially if you have significant myopia, can lead to eye strain and discomfort. When you attempt to read without corrective lenses, you may find yourself squinting or leaning closer to the text to see it better. This behavior can create additional stress on the eye muscles and may contribute to the progression of myopia over time.
Research has shown that prolonged near work is a significant risk factor for myopia progression. Therefore, whether you wear glasses or not, the amount of time spent on near tasks is crucial. It is recommended to take regular breaks using the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds. This practice helps to relax the eye muscles and may reduce the risk of myopia progression.

In addition to wearing glasses, other lifestyle factors can influence myopia progression. Engaging in outdoor activities has been shown to have a protective effect against the development and progression of myopia. Natural light exposure and the opportunity to focus on distant objects can help maintain eye health and potentially slow down the elongation of the eyeball.

Regarding the frequency of changing your glasses, if you notice that your vision has changed significantly or if your glasses are uncomfortable or no longer fit well, it is advisable to have your eyes examined and consider getting a new prescription. Regular eye exams are essential, especially for individuals with myopia, as they allow for timely adjustments to prescriptions and can help monitor the health of your eyes.

In conclusion, wearing glasses while reading is generally beneficial and can help reduce eye strain, which may contribute to myopia progression. It is crucial to have the correct prescription and to practice good eye care habits, including taking breaks and spending time outdoors. If you have concerns about your vision or myopia progression, consulting with an eye care professional is recommended for personalized advice and management strategies.