How Long After Eye Drops Can I Decide on Glasses?

After an eye examination, how long should I wait after using eye drops to determine if I need glasses?

Hello, Doctor.
I recently visited an ophthalmologist for the first time and discovered that my vision is 0.6.
The doctor advised me to use eye drops first.
How long should I use them before determining whether I need glasses? Currently, I don't have significant issues in my daily life, but sometimes when driving, my eyes struggle to focus, and I occasionally feel dizzy after looking ahead for a long time.
The doctor didn't mention whether I have astigmatism, so I'm unsure if I need glasses.
Also, what is the likelihood of adults developing pseudomyopia?

Cai Xiaojie, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/05/05

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology

Hello Ms.
Tsai,
Adults typically have true myopia, and the measurements obtained after administering dilating drops should reflect the actual prescription, which can be used for glasses.
Whether or not to get glasses depends on your needs; if your vision is only 0.6, it may not be sufficient for driving, so I would recommend getting glasses.
Difficulty in focusing could indicate a refractive issue, which may include myopia, hyperopia, or astigmatism.

At the E-Hospital in Puzi, Taiwan, the ophthalmology department is open on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM, and on Wednesday from 2:00 PM to 4:30 PM.
Please note that online responses are for reference only; it is essential to seek medical attention at a healthcare facility if necessary.
I hope to have the opportunity to assist you.
Best regards,
Gao Pilin

Reply Date: 2020/05/05

More Info

When it comes to determining the need for glasses after using eye drops, several factors come into play, including the type of eye drops used, the underlying condition being treated, and how your vision responds to the treatment. Generally, eye drops can be used for various reasons, such as to reduce inflammation, treat infections, or manage conditions like dry eyes. Depending on the purpose of the eye drops, the time it takes for your vision to stabilize can vary.

Typically, if you are using eye drops for a specific condition, it may take anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks for your eyes to respond adequately to the treatment. After this period, you should schedule a follow-up appointment with your eye care professional to reassess your vision. During this follow-up, the doctor can evaluate whether your vision has improved and whether you still require glasses.

If you are experiencing symptoms such as difficulty focusing, especially while driving, and occasional dizziness, it is essential to communicate these concerns to your eye doctor. These symptoms could indicate a refractive error, such as myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), or astigmatism. If you have not yet been tested for astigmatism, it would be advisable to ask your doctor about it during your next visit.

Regarding your question about adult pseudomyopia (also known as functional myopia), it is indeed a possibility. Pseudomyopia occurs when the eye's focusing mechanism becomes overly strained, often due to prolonged near work, such as reading or using a computer. This condition can lead to temporary blurriness when trying to focus on distant objects. Adults can experience this, especially if they have been engaging in activities that require intense focus for extended periods without breaks.

To summarize, after using eye drops, it is best to wait for a period specified by your eye doctor—usually a few days to a couple of weeks—before deciding on glasses. If your vision remains problematic, especially with symptoms like difficulty focusing or dizziness, it is crucial to have a comprehensive eye exam. This will help determine if you need corrective lenses and whether any underlying issues, such as astigmatism or pseudomyopia, need to be addressed. Remember, regular eye exams are vital for maintaining good vision and eye health, especially as we age or if we experience changes in our vision.

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