Eyeglass Prescription Changes and Eye Health Risks - Ophthalmology

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Eyeglass issues?


Hello Doctor, I previously inquired about the issue with my new and old glasses (link: #137463).
I have been wearing my new glasses for about three weeks now.

1.
If my actual prescription is not as strong as the new glasses, will wearing the new glasses cause my eyesight to worsen to match the prescription of the glasses?
2.
If I switch the lens prescription back to my original -5.00 diopters, will that have any negative effects on my eyes? Thank you, Doctor.

Emma, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/08/15

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology


Hello Emma: 1.
Wearing them for a long time can cause your prescription to worsen! 2.
If you switch back to your original prescription and can still see clearly, then go ahead and switch back; it won't have any negative effects and may actually reduce eye strain.
Taiwan E-Hospital Puzi Hospital Ophthalmology: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday mornings from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM; Wednesday afternoons from 1:00 PM to 4:30 PM.
Online responses are for reference only; if necessary, you should visit a medical facility for treatment.
I hope to have the opportunity to serve you.
Gao Pi-Lin

Reply Date: 2018/08/15

More Info


When it comes to understanding eyeglass prescription changes and their implications for eye health, it's essential to consider several factors, especially for individuals with a history of high myopia or other eye conditions.
1. Impact of Wearing Incorrect Prescription Glasses: If you are wearing new glasses with a stronger prescription than your actual vision requires, it is unlikely that your eyes will "adjust" to the stronger prescription in a way that causes your vision to deteriorate to that level. However, wearing glasses that are too strong can lead to discomfort, eye strain, and headaches. Your eyes may feel fatigued as they work harder to compensate for the incorrect prescription. Over time, this could potentially lead to a temporary increase in visual discomfort, but it does not directly cause your eyes to become more myopic or to worsen to the prescription level of the glasses.

2. Reverting to a Lower Prescription: If you decide to switch back to your original prescription of 500 degrees, it should not have any long-term negative effects on your eye health. In fact, wearing a prescription that is more aligned with your actual vision can help reduce eye strain and improve your overall comfort. It is essential to ensure that your glasses provide the correct level of correction for your vision needs. If you experience discomfort or visual disturbances with your new glasses, it is advisable to consult with your eye care professional for a thorough evaluation.

3. Understanding Myopia and Eye Health Risks: For individuals with high myopia, like yourself, there are inherent risks associated with the condition. High myopia is linked to an increased risk of retinal detachment, glaucoma, and other retinal pathologies. Regular eye examinations are crucial for monitoring the health of your eyes and detecting any changes early on. If your prescription changes significantly, it may indicate underlying issues that need to be addressed.

4. Managing Anxiety About Eye Health: It is common for individuals with high myopia to feel anxious about their eye health, especially when experiencing changes in vision or discomfort. It is important to maintain open communication with your eye care provider. Regular check-ups can help alleviate concerns and ensure that any potential issues are managed proactively. Following your doctor's recommendations, such as avoiding strenuous activities that could strain your eyes, is also beneficial.

5. Lifestyle Considerations: In addition to regular eye exams, adopting a healthy lifestyle can contribute positively to your eye health. This includes maintaining a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals, protecting your eyes from UV exposure, and managing screen time effectively to reduce digital eye strain. Engaging in eye exercises and ensuring proper lighting while reading or using digital devices can also help maintain comfort and reduce fatigue.

In conclusion, while wearing glasses with an incorrect prescription may lead to temporary discomfort, it is unlikely to cause permanent changes to your vision. Switching back to a more suitable prescription should improve your comfort and visual clarity. Regular monitoring and a proactive approach to eye health are essential, especially for those with high myopia. If you have any further concerns or experience persistent discomfort, do not hesitate to reach out to your eye care professional for guidance.

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