Does Correct Eyeglass Prescription Increase Myopia Progression? - Ophthalmology

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The concern regarding whether wearing the correct eyeglass prescription can lead to an increase in myopia progression is a common one among individuals with myopia. To address this question, it is essential to understand the relationship between eyeglass prescriptions, the eye's focusing mechanism, and the progression of myopia.

Firstly, myopia, or nearsightedness, occurs when the eyeball is too long relative to the focusing power of the cornea and lens, causing distant objects to appear blurry. The degree of myopia is measured in diopters (D), and individuals with higher degrees of myopia are at a greater risk for developing complications such as retinal detachment, glaucoma, and cataracts.

When it comes to eyeglass prescriptions, wearing glasses that are too strong (over-corrected) can lead to visual discomfort and eye strain. This is because the eyes may have to work harder to focus, particularly for near tasks. Conversely, wearing glasses that are under-corrected can also lead to visual strain, as the individual may struggle to see clearly, which can lead to increased use of the ciliary muscle (the muscle responsible for adjusting the lens for focusing). This increased effort can contribute to a phenomenon known as "accommodative spasm," where the eye's focusing mechanism becomes overactive, potentially leading to further increases in myopia.

Research has shown that the progression of myopia is influenced by several factors, including genetics, environmental factors, and visual habits. While wearing the correct prescription is crucial for clear vision, it is not the sole determinant of myopia progression. Studies suggest that children and adolescents who spend more time on near tasks (like reading or using screens) and less time outdoors are more likely to experience myopia progression. Therefore, it is essential to balance near work with outdoor activities to help mitigate the risk of worsening myopia.

In your case, if you have been prescribed glasses that are accurately tailored to your current level of myopia, wearing them should not inherently cause your myopia to worsen. However, if you feel that your prescription is too strong or too weak, it is advisable to consult with your eye care professional. They may recommend a comprehensive eye examination, possibly including cycloplegic refraction (using eye drops to temporarily paralyze the ciliary muscle) to obtain a more accurate measurement of your refractive error without the influence of muscle strain.

Additionally, there are several management strategies available for myopia control. These include the use of specialized contact lenses, orthokeratology (a method of reshaping the cornea with specially designed contact lenses worn overnight), and atropine eye drops, which have been shown to slow myopia progression in children.

In summary, wearing the correct eyeglass prescription is essential for clear vision and should not directly cause an increase in myopia progression. However, it is crucial to maintain a healthy balance of visual activities and to regularly consult with your eye care provider to monitor your vision and adjust your prescription as needed. If you have concerns about your myopia or its progression, discussing these with your eye care professional can provide you with tailored advice and management options.