Impact of Wearing Incorrect Prescription Contact Lenses on Vision

Contact lens prescription

Hello doctor, my left eye has a prescription of -2.00 diopters and my right eye has -5.00 diopters.
I usually buy contact lenses with prescriptions of -1.75 and -4.75, but this time I accidentally purchased -2.00 and -3.75.
My right eye's prescription is 100 degrees lower than what I usually buy.
I can see clearly with each eye individually, but I feel a bit uncomfortable when using both eyes together.
If I continue to wear these lenses, will it worsen my myopia or have any other effects?

Doris, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/07/09

Dr. Liang Ce reply Ophthalmology

Not recommended.

Reply Date: 2018/07/09

More Info

Wearing incorrect prescription contact lenses can have several implications for your vision and overall eye health. In your case, you have a significant difference in prescription between your left eye (200 degrees) and right eye (500 degrees). By wearing contact lenses with a prescription of 200 degrees for your left eye and 375 degrees for your right eye, you are indeed under-correcting your right eye by 125 degrees. This discrepancy can lead to various visual disturbances and discomfort.

Firstly, when wearing contact lenses that do not match your prescription, you may experience blurred vision, especially when trying to focus on objects at different distances. This is because your brain is receiving conflicting visual information from each eye. While you mentioned that you can see clearly with each eye individually, the combined effect of wearing mismatched lenses can lead to visual discomfort, eye strain, and headaches. This is particularly true when engaging in activities that require good binocular vision, such as reading or using a computer.

Moreover, prolonged use of incorrect prescription lenses can potentially lead to an increase in eye fatigue. Your eyes may work harder to compensate for the incorrect prescription, which can lead to symptoms such as dryness, irritation, and a feeling of heaviness in the eyes. Over time, this strain may contribute to an increase in myopia (nearsightedness) or exacerbate existing refractive errors, although the exact relationship between lens prescription and the progression of myopia is complex and can vary from person to person.

It's also important to consider the impact on your overall eye health. Wearing lenses that do not provide the correct level of correction can lead to discomfort and may increase the risk of developing complications such as corneal hypoxia (lack of oxygen to the cornea), especially if the lenses are worn for extended periods. This can result in symptoms like redness, swelling, and even more serious conditions if not addressed.

If you continue to wear the incorrect prescription lenses, it is advisable to monitor your symptoms closely. If you experience persistent discomfort, blurred vision, or any other concerning symptoms, it is essential to consult with an eye care professional. They can provide a comprehensive eye examination and determine the best course of action, which may include updating your prescription or exploring alternative vision correction options.

In summary, while you may be able to see adequately with each eye individually, wearing incorrect prescription contact lenses can lead to discomfort, visual disturbances, and potential long-term effects on your vision and eye health. It is always best to wear lenses that match your prescribed correction to ensure optimal visual clarity and comfort. If you have any doubts or concerns, do not hesitate to reach out to your eye care provider for guidance.

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