Eye Health: Addressing Vision Discrepancies and Discomfort

Eyes and Vision

Hello, Doctor Gao.
Since March, I have significantly increased my computer usage.
After returning from abroad in July, I noticed my prescription had changed.
I visited a doctor and got new glasses, but no matter how the glasses are adjusted, my left eye (with a prescription of -500) does not see as clearly as my right eye (with a prescription of -550).
Is this normal? (I am a bit anxious about it.) In the morning, the difference is not very noticeable, but as the afternoon progresses, I feel that the disparity in vision between my two eyes becomes more pronounced (the left is worse than the right).
Recently, I have also noticed redness near my left pupil, and my eye feels sore, which sometimes causes pain on the left side of my head.
What could be the reason for this? Should I go to a larger hospital for further examination? Thank you.

Wu Qingqing, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/08/22

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology

Hello Ms.
Wu,
Having a lower prescription does not necessarily mean better vision, as the prescription and visual acuity are not always correlated.
Based on your description, the most common cause of these symptoms is fatigue.
First, it is important to focus on eye care by reducing or minimizing the use of electronic devices, maintaining a regular sleep schedule, and waking up early.
Try to maintain this routine for a week and see if your condition improves.
If there is improvement, it can be confirmed that fatigue is the issue.
If you cannot avoid using electronic devices, you can apply the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes of computer use, look away from the screen for 20 seconds and focus on an object 20 feet (6 meters) away.
Blinking 20 times during this break would be even better.
For eye care, you can visit the ophthalmology department at Puzi Hospital in Taiwan on the following schedule:
- Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday: 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM
- Wednesday: 2:00 PM to 4:30 PM
Please note that online responses are for reference only, and it is advisable 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: 2020/08/22

More Info

Hello! Thank you for reaching out with your concerns regarding your vision discrepancies and discomfort. It sounds like you are experiencing a few different issues that could be interconnected, and I’d like to help clarify some of these points for you.

Firstly, it is not uncommon for individuals with different prescriptions in each eye to notice a disparity in clarity between the two. In your case, you have a left eye prescription of -500 degrees and a right eye prescription of -550 degrees. The difference in prescription can lead to varying visual acuity, especially if the left eye is not compensating well for its refractive error. This is particularly noticeable when you are using your eyes for prolonged periods, such as when working on a computer.

The fact that you notice the difference more as the day progresses could be attributed to eye fatigue. Prolonged screen time can lead to digital eye strain, which manifests as discomfort, redness, and even headaches. The symptoms you describe, including the redness near your left pupil and the associated headache, may indicate that your left eye is straining more to achieve clarity, which could be exacerbated by the increased use of digital devices.

It’s also important to consider that the discomfort and redness you are experiencing could be related to other factors, such as dry eyes or even an underlying condition like conjunctivitis or uveitis. If the redness persists or worsens, or if you experience any changes in your vision, it would be prudent to seek further evaluation from an eye care professional.

Regarding your concern about whether this situation is normal, it is relatively common for individuals with different refractive errors to experience varying levels of visual clarity. However, if the disparity is significant or if you are experiencing discomfort, it is essential to address it. You may benefit from a comprehensive eye examination that includes a refraction test, assessment of eye health, and possibly a discussion about your visual demands and how to manage them effectively.

In terms of next steps, I recommend the following:
1. Schedule a Comprehensive Eye Exam: If you haven’t done so recently, it would be beneficial to have a thorough examination by an ophthalmologist or optometrist. They can assess your eye health, check for any underlying issues, and ensure that your prescription is accurate.

2. Consider Visual Ergonomics: Since you mentioned increased computer use, implementing the 20-20-20 rule can be helpful. Every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break to look at something 20 feet away. This can help reduce eye strain.

3. Evaluate Your Eyewear: Sometimes, the frames or the fit of the glasses can affect how well you see. Ensure that your glasses are properly adjusted and that the lenses are correctly positioned in front of your eyes.

4. Discuss Symptoms with Your Doctor: Given the redness and discomfort in your left eye, it’s essential to communicate these symptoms to your eye care provider. They may want to perform additional tests to rule out any potential issues.

5. Stay Hydrated and Use Artificial Tears: If you suspect dryness, using lubricating eye drops can help alleviate discomfort. Staying hydrated is also crucial for overall eye health.

In conclusion, while some differences in vision between your eyes can be normal, the discomfort and symptoms you are experiencing warrant further investigation. Don’t hesitate to seek a second opinion or further evaluation if you feel your current care isn’t addressing your concerns adequately. Your eye health is important, and addressing these issues early can help prevent further complications. Best wishes for your eye health!

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