Can I Wear Glasses Over Contacts for My Myopia and Glare?

Issues with wearing glasses for myopia with glare?

Doctor, I have myopia and astigmatism in both eyes.
Due to my job, I need to wear contact lenses, but sometimes I have difficulty seeing clearly.
I would like to know if I can wear glasses with only astigmatism correction over my contact lenses when I can't see clearly.

Ching, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/01/21

Dr. Cai Wenyuan reply Ophthalmology

Hello, there is no such practice.
Wishing you peace and good health.
Sincerely, Dr.
Tsai Wen-Yuan, Director of the Department of Ophthalmology, Taoyuan General Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2018/01/21

More Info

Wearing glasses over contact lenses is generally not recommended, especially for individuals with myopia (nearsightedness) and glare issues. While it may seem like a practical solution when you experience difficulties seeing clearly while wearing contacts, there are several factors to consider that could affect your vision and comfort.

Firstly, wearing glasses over contact lenses can lead to increased visual distortion. The combination of two lenses (the contact lens and the glasses) can create additional optical aberrations, which may worsen your clarity of vision rather than improve it. This is particularly important for individuals with myopia, as the corrective power of the contact lenses is designed to be worn alone. Adding glasses on top can lead to a misalignment of the optical centers of the lenses, which can cause discomfort and visual disturbances.

Secondly, wearing glasses over contacts can also lead to physical discomfort. The added weight of the glasses can create pressure on the nose and ears, and the frames may not fit comfortably over the contact lenses. This can lead to headaches or irritation, which is not ideal, especially if you need to wear them for extended periods due to work requirements.

If you are experiencing issues with glare, it may be more beneficial to explore other options. Anti-reflective coatings on glasses can help reduce glare and improve visual comfort. Additionally, if you find that your vision is not clear with contact lenses, it is essential to consult with your eye care professional. They can assess your prescription and determine if your contact lenses are the correct fit or if a different type of lens might be more suitable for your needs.

Another consideration is the health of your eyes. If you are experiencing discomfort or visual disturbances while wearing contact lenses, it may indicate that your eyes are not tolerating them well. This could be due to dryness, irritation, or an improper fit. In such cases, it is crucial to take a break from contact lenses and allow your eyes to rest. Your eye care provider can recommend appropriate eye drops or other treatments to alleviate any discomfort.

In summary, while the idea of wearing glasses over contact lenses may seem like a quick fix for myopia and glare issues, it is not advisable due to potential visual distortion, physical discomfort, and the risk of exacerbating any underlying eye health issues. Instead, it is best to consult with your eye care professional to explore alternative solutions that can provide clearer vision and greater comfort. They may suggest adjustments to your contact lens prescription, recommend anti-reflective coatings for your glasses, or even explore options like specialized contact lenses designed to reduce glare. Your eye health is paramount, and ensuring that you have the right corrective measures in place will help you maintain optimal vision and comfort in your daily activities.

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