Myopia: When to Update Your Glasses and Seek Further Eye Care - Ophthalmology

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Hello! Thank you for reaching out with your concerns regarding your vision and myopia management. It sounds like you have been experiencing some eye fatigue and are wondering about the best course of action regarding your glasses and overall eye care.

First, it's important to understand that myopia, or nearsightedness, is a common refractive error where distant objects appear blurry while close objects can be seen clearly. As myopia progresses, especially in individuals with high degrees like yours (around -10.50 diopters), it can lead to increased eye strain, particularly when using digital devices or reading for extended periods. This strain can manifest as fatigue, discomfort, or even headaches.

You mentioned that you have a pair of glasses with a prescription of -10.50 diopters and astigmatism of -3.00, along with blue light filtering. You also noted that you tried wearing an older pair of glasses with a prescription of approximately -9.50 diopters, which seemed to provide a clearer and brighter vision, although you still experienced fatigue. This situation raises a few important points.

1. Understanding Prescription Changes: It is possible for your vision to fluctuate due to various factors, including fatigue, stress, or even the amount of time spent on screens. However, significant changes in prescription typically indicate a need for an updated eye exam. If your recent eye exams (including the dilated fundus examination) did not reveal any issues, it may suggest that your eye health is stable, but it does not necessarily mean that your prescription is optimal.

2. When to Update Glasses: If you find that your current glasses are causing discomfort or if you feel that your vision is clearer with your older pair, it might be time to consider getting a new prescription. Eye fatigue can often be alleviated with the correct prescription, and wearing glasses that are not suited to your current vision can exacerbate discomfort.

3. Seeking Further Eye Care: Given your history of high myopia and the symptoms you are experiencing, it would be prudent to schedule an appointment with an ophthalmologist or optometrist for a comprehensive eye exam. This exam can include refraction tests to determine your current prescription needs, as well as checks for any potential complications associated with high myopia, such as retinal issues or early signs of cataracts.

4. Managing Eye Fatigue: In the meantime, consider implementing the 20-20-20 rule to help reduce eye strain: every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break and look at something 20 feet away. Additionally, ensure that your workspace is well-lit and that you are using proper ergonomics when using digital devices.

5. Long-term Eye Health: Regular eye exams are crucial, especially for individuals with high myopia. They help monitor any changes in your vision and eye health. If you have concerns about your eye care or if you notice any new symptoms, do not hesitate to seek further evaluation.

In summary, while your recent eye exams may not have indicated any immediate issues, your symptoms of fatigue and the difference in clarity between your glasses suggest that an updated prescription may be beneficial. It is always best to consult with a qualified eye care professional who can provide personalized recommendations based on a thorough examination of your eyes. Taking proactive steps in managing your myopia will help ensure your long-term eye health and comfort.