Should I Get New Glasses? Eye Health Tips for Computer Users

Hello, doctor. I would like to ask some questions regarding the eyes?

I apologize for the inconvenience, but I would like to ask you about my situation.
My glasses prescription is -5.70 diopters, and recently I experienced discomfort in my eyes.
After visiting an ophthalmologist, I was diagnosed with conjunctival inflammation, and my prescription increased to -7.00 diopters.
I consulted two clinics; one doctor advised that I do not need to wear glasses for now (I mentioned that I mostly look at near objects, like the computer), while the other doctor said that with my vision at 0.5, I should wear glasses.
I found online that a visual acuity of 0.8 is recommended, but for close-up work, it is better to use a lower prescription.
Should I get new glasses, or should I use two pairs of glasses alternately for distance and near vision? If I wear glasses to correct my vision to 0.8 for computer use, will it strain my eyes? Additionally, do I need to have good lighting when using the computer? My room is connected to the living room, and I usually use indirect lighting from the living room; I find the room light too bright.
I am unsure if this setup affects my eyes.
Thank you for your assistance.

Acan, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/03/23

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology

Hello,
Due to current corneal inflammation, it is advisable to wait until it heals before getting new glasses.
For distance vision, you can get a prescription that is accurate, while for near vision, you may need a reduction of 100-200 degrees.
If you prefer not to frequently change glasses, multifocal lenses could be a good option.
When using a computer, ensure that the lighting is adequate to prevent eye fatigue.

The ophthalmology department at E-Hospital in Puzi, Taiwan, operates on the following schedule:
Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM, and Wednesday from 2:00 PM to 4:30 PM.

Please note that online responses are for reference only, and 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: 2021/03/23

More Info

When it comes to eye health, especially for those who spend long hours in front of a computer, there are several important considerations to keep in mind. Your recent experience with increased prescription strength and discomfort indicates that you are facing some common issues associated with prolonged computer use. Here are some insights and recommendations based on your situation.

Should You Get New Glasses?
Given that your prescription has increased from 570 to 700 degrees, it is advisable to consider getting new glasses. The recommendation from the second doctor to wear glasses for a vision of 0.5 suggests that your current vision is not optimal for your daily activities, especially if you are primarily working on a computer. While some sources suggest that a vision of 0.8 is ideal for comfortable viewing, it is crucial to have a prescription that allows you to see clearly without straining your eyes.

If you primarily focus on near objects, such as a computer screen, it might be beneficial to have a pair of glasses specifically for this purpose. Many individuals find that using a slightly lower prescription for near work can reduce eye strain. This is often referred to as "over-minus" prescribing, where the prescription is slightly reduced to alleviate fatigue when focusing on close objects.

Using Two Pairs of Glasses
Using two pairs of glasses—one for distance and one for near work—can be a practical solution. This approach allows you to have the correct prescription for each activity, minimizing strain and discomfort. If you find that your eyes feel fatigued or strained when using your current glasses, it may be worth discussing this option with your eye care professional.

Eye Health Tips for Computer Users
1. Follow the 20-20-20 Rule: Every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break to look at something 20 feet away. This helps to relax the eye muscles and reduce fatigue.

2. Proper Lighting: Good lighting is essential when using a computer. While indirect lighting can be comfortable, ensure that it is sufficient to reduce glare on the screen. If the room is too dim, your eyes may strain to see the screen clearly. Consider using a desk lamp with adjustable brightness to provide adequate light without being too harsh.

3. Blink Regularly: When staring at screens, people tend to blink less, which can lead to dry eyes. Make a conscious effort to blink more often or use artificial tears to keep your eyes moist.

4. Adjust Your Screen: Position your computer screen about an arm's length away and slightly below eye level. This can help reduce strain on your eyes and neck.

5. Take Regular Breaks: In addition to the 20-20-20 rule, make sure to take longer breaks every hour to stand up, stretch, and move around. This not only helps your eyes but also benefits your overall health.

6. Consider Blue Light Filters: If you spend long hours in front of screens, consider using blue light blocking glasses or applying a blue light filter on your devices. This can help reduce eye strain and improve comfort.

Conclusion
In summary, given your increased prescription and discomfort, it is advisable to consider getting new glasses tailored for your specific needs, especially for computer use. Using two pairs of glasses can be beneficial, allowing you to optimize your vision for different tasks. Additionally, implementing good eye care practices, such as the 20-20-20 rule, proper lighting, and regular breaks, can significantly improve your comfort and reduce the risk of further eye strain. Always consult with your eye care professional to determine the best course of action for your individual situation.

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