Unable to achieve 1.0 vision after corrective treatment?
Hello Doctor: Two years ago, when I got my glasses, I couldn't adjust my right eye to 1.0 no matter what; it was about 0.7.
I had always been able to achieve 1.0 with my glasses since childhood.
The optician suggested I see a doctor, but when I visited a small hospital near my home, they didn't find any issues.
They confirmed that my right eye's vision correction was indeed only 0.7 and recommended I visit their external clinic, but I didn't go because it was a bit far.
Six months ago, my glasses broke, and when I got new ones, my right eye's vision dropped to 0.6.
The optician thought it might be because I was used to relying on my other eye, but I am already an adult and haven't made any significant changes in my habits in recent years, so I don't think that's the issue.
Recently, I've been experiencing intermittent pain in my right eye.
Could you please advise what might be the problem and whether I should seek further medical attention or visit a larger hospital in the city? Thank you.
Xiao Guang, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/01/02
Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology
Hello, Xiao Guang: There are many reasons for vision deterioration, but an examination is necessary to determine the cause.
I recommend that you take the time to visit a nearby clinic or hospital for an evaluation.
Eye pain should not be ignored, and it is important to seek medical attention promptly.
In Taiwan, the ophthalmology department at Puzi Hospital is available on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday mornings from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM, and on Wednesday afternoons from 2:00 PM to 4:30 PM.
Please note that online responses can only serve as a reference; it is essential to visit a medical facility for proper care.
I hope to have the opportunity to assist you.
Gao Pi-Lin
Reply Date: 2021/01/02
More Info
Achieving optimal vision, particularly reaching a standard of 1.0 (or 20/20 in the United States), can be a complex issue influenced by various factors. In your case, it seems that despite adjustments to your eyewear, your right eye has not been able to reach this level of clarity, remaining at approximately 0.7 (or 20/30). This situation can be frustrating, especially when you have previously achieved better vision.
There are several potential reasons why you might not be able to achieve 1.0 vision in your right eye:
1. Refractive Errors: The most common reason for suboptimal vision is an uncorrected refractive error. This could include myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), or astigmatism. If your prescription is not accurately reflecting your current visual needs, it could lead to blurred vision. It’s essential to have a comprehensive eye exam to ensure that your prescription is up to date.
2. Eye Health Issues: Conditions such as cataracts, macular degeneration, or retinal issues can affect vision quality. Even if initial examinations did not reveal any problems, subtle changes can occur over time. If you are experiencing pain in your right eye, this could indicate an underlying issue that requires further investigation.
3. Visual Habits: Sometimes, individuals develop a habit of favoring one eye over the other, which can lead to a decrease in the visual acuity of the less-used eye. This phenomenon, known as "suppression," can occur unconsciously and may require vision therapy to correct.
4. Optical Quality of Lenses: The quality of the lenses in your glasses can also impact your vision. If the lenses are scratched, improperly fitted, or of poor optical quality, they may not provide the clarity you need. Ensure that your lenses are made from high-quality materials and are properly aligned with your eyes.
5. Neurological Factors: The brain plays a crucial role in processing visual information. If there are issues with how your brain interprets signals from your eyes, this could lead to difficulties in achieving clear vision. Conditions such as convergence insufficiency or other binocular vision disorders can affect how well your eyes work together.
Given your symptoms of eye pain and the persistent difficulty in achieving clear vision, it is advisable to seek further evaluation from an eye care professional. A comprehensive eye examination by an ophthalmologist or optometrist can help identify any underlying issues that may not have been detected in previous visits. They may perform additional tests, including a dilated eye exam, to assess the health of your retina and other internal structures of the eye.
In terms of your immediate concerns, it is crucial not to ignore the pain in your right eye. Pain can be a sign of various conditions, including inflammation, infection, or increased intraocular pressure, which could lead to more severe complications if left untreated. Therefore, I recommend scheduling an appointment with a specialist as soon as possible.
In summary, achieving 1.0 vision after eyewear adjustments can be hindered by a variety of factors, including refractive errors, eye health issues, visual habits, lens quality, and neurological factors. Given your symptoms and history, a thorough examination is warranted to determine the best course of action for your vision health.
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