Should You Get an Eye Exam if Glasses Don't Improve Vision?

Q: Should You Get an Eye Exam if Glasses Don't Improve Vision?

Hello： Amblyopia may not improve to 0.8 even with glasses, as there are many factors that can lead to poor vision. <br>Issues with the cornea, lens, retina, or optic nerve can all contribute to suboptimal vision despite wearing glasses. <br>It is recommended that you visit an oph

Issues with prescription strength after wearing glasses?

Hello, doctor.
I would like to ask if my vision cannot reach 1.0 even after wearing glasses, should I go to the hospital for an examination or should I find another optical store for a new prescription? I recall that since my twenties, I have never been able to achieve 1.0 vision with glasses, and I didn't pay attention to the reason at that time.
In recent years, I started having health check-ups and discovered that my vision with glasses is only 0.6 in both eyes.
I believe that anything below 0.8 is considered amblyopia, right? With both eyes at only 0.6, can I still drive? Thank you.

Niming, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/12/02

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology

Hello: Amblyopia may not improve to 0.8 even with glasses, as there are many factors that can lead to poor vision.
Issues with the cornea, lens, retina, or optic nerve can all contribute to suboptimal vision despite wearing glasses.
It is recommended that you visit an ophthalmologist for an examination to clarify the underlying causes.
The vision standards for driving are: a bare visual acuity of 0.6 or higher in both eyes, with each eye achieving at least 0.5; or a corrected visual acuity of 0.8 or higher in both eyes, with each eye achieving at least 0.6.
In addition to meeting the vision requirements, passing a night vision test is also necessary to qualify for driving.

Reply Date: 2021/12/02

More Info

If you find that wearing glasses does not improve your vision to 1.0 (or 20/20), it is definitely advisable to seek a comprehensive eye examination from a qualified eye care professional. There are several reasons why your vision may not be improving with corrective lenses, and understanding these can help you make informed decisions about your eye health.

Firstly, it is important to clarify what is meant by "1.0" vision. In many countries, including the United States, visual acuity is measured using the Snellen chart, where 20/20 vision is considered normal. If your vision is only 0.6 (which is approximately 20/33), it indicates that you are not seeing as clearly as you should be, even with glasses. This could be classified as a form of visual impairment, and if your vision is consistently below 20/40, it may affect your ability to drive legally in many jurisdictions.

There are several potential reasons why your vision might not be improving with glasses:
1. Incorrect Prescription: One of the most common reasons for inadequate vision correction is an incorrect prescription. If your glasses are not made with the right lenses for your specific refractive error (myopia, hyperopia, astigmatism), you may not achieve optimal vision. It is essential to have your eyes examined regularly, as your prescription can change over time.

2. Underlying Eye Conditions: Conditions such as cataracts, glaucoma, or retinal issues can affect vision quality and may not be corrected by glasses alone. If you have not had a comprehensive eye exam recently, it is crucial to rule out any underlying health issues that could be impacting your vision.

3. Amblyopia (Lazy Eye): If you have had poor vision in one eye for an extended period, your brain may have started to favor the stronger eye, leading to amblyopia. This condition can result in reduced vision in the weaker eye, even with corrective lenses. Treatment options vary and may include vision therapy or other interventions.

4. Visual Processing Issues: Sometimes, the problem may not be with the eyes themselves but with how the brain processes visual information. This can lead to difficulties in seeing clearly, even with the correct prescription.

5. Eye Fatigue or Strain: If you are experiencing eye strain or fatigue, it may be due to prolonged screen time or inadequate lighting conditions. This can affect your ability to see clearly, and addressing these factors may help improve your visual comfort.

Given your concerns about your vision and the potential classification of your condition as "weak vision," it is essential to consult with an eye care professional. They can perform a thorough examination, including tests for visual acuity, refraction, and an assessment of the overall health of your eyes.
If your vision remains at 0.6, it is crucial to discuss your driving capabilities with your eye doctor. In many places, there are legal requirements for visual acuity to ensure safe driving. If your vision does not meet these standards, you may need to consider alternatives, such as corrective surgery or other treatments.

In summary, if your glasses are not improving your vision to the expected level, it is advisable to seek a comprehensive eye exam. This will help identify any underlying issues and ensure that you receive the appropriate treatment. Taking proactive steps in managing your eye health is essential for maintaining good vision and overall quality of life.

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