Should I Adjust My Glasses Prescription for Balanced Vision?

Prescription for eyeglasses?

Hello, doctor.
My prescription is as follows: Right eye -750 with astigmatism -200; Left eye -700 with astigmatism -250 (stable).
I previously had a pair of glasses for reading that were both -600 with -200 astigmatism, which I found comfortable and got used to over the past three years.
I would like to get a new pair now.
I want to ask if my right eye needs an additional -50 for myopia.
If I don't add it, will I develop a dependency on my left eye, leading to imbalance or other issues? (The optician mentioned that my eyes might have adapted to the old prescription, and adding the -50 might cause eye strain when reading.) I'm not sure what to do.
Thank you!

Ben, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/08/01

Dr. Cai Wenyuan reply Ophthalmology

Hello, I apologize, but this issue requires an actual fitting.
Please consult a qualified hospital or clinic.
Wishing you safety and health.
Sincerely, Dr.
Tsai Wen-Yuan, Director of the Ophthalmology Department, Taoyuan General Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2017/08/01

More Info

When considering whether to adjust your glasses prescription for balanced vision, it's essential to take into account several factors related to your current vision status, the specific needs of each eye, and how your eyes work together. Based on the prescription details you provided (R750 with astigmatism of 200 and L700 with astigmatism of 250), it appears that your right eye has a higher degree of myopia compared to your left eye.
1. Understanding Your Current Prescription: Your current prescription indicates that your right eye is more nearsighted than your left. This difference can lead to a visual imbalance, especially during activities that require both eyes to work together, such as reading or using a computer. If your left eye is significantly stronger, it may become the dominant eye, leading to a reliance on it for clear vision. Over time, this could potentially cause the right eye to weaken further, as it may not be used as much for detailed tasks.

2. Adjusting the Prescription: The suggestion to add +50 degrees to your right eye's prescription for near vision is worth considering. This adjustment could help balance the workload between your eyes, especially if you frequently engage in activities that require prolonged near vision, like reading. However, it is also crucial to consider how your eyes have adapted to the current prescription. If you have been using the same prescription for three years and feel comfortable with it, a sudden change could lead to visual discomfort or fatigue, as your eyes may need time to adjust to the new prescription.

3. Potential Risks of Not Adjusting: If you choose not to adjust the prescription and continue to rely heavily on your left eye, you may risk developing further imbalances. This could lead to issues such as eye strain, headaches, or even a decline in the vision quality of your right eye over time. The brain tends to favor the stronger eye, which can lead to a condition known as amblyopia (lazy eye) if one eye is consistently underused.

4. Consultation with an Eye Care Professional: It is advisable to consult with an eye care professional, such as an optometrist or ophthalmologist, who can perform a comprehensive eye exam. They can assess your visual needs, discuss your daily activities, and determine whether an adjustment to your prescription is necessary. They can also provide insights into how to balance the prescription for both eyes effectively.

5. Gradual Adjustment: If you decide to adjust your prescription, consider doing so gradually. You might start with a slight increase in the prescription for your right eye and monitor how your eyes respond. This approach can help minimize discomfort and allow your visual system to adapt more smoothly.

6. Importance of Regular Eye Exams: Regular eye exams are crucial for maintaining optimal vision and eye health. They allow for timely adjustments to your prescription based on any changes in your vision or eye health.
In summary, adjusting your glasses prescription can be beneficial for achieving balanced vision, especially if you notice a reliance on one eye over the other. However, any changes should be made thoughtfully and in consultation with a qualified eye care professional to ensure that your visual comfort and health are prioritized.

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