Prescription Differences When Getting New Glasses

Concerns Regarding Prescription Measurements When Fitting New Glasses

Hello Doctor: Recently, I plan to get a new pair of glasses as a backup.
Yesterday, I had a vision test and refraction at Chang Gung Memorial Hospital in Taoyuan.
The results of this test were: right eye myopia of -4.25 diopters, left eye myopia of -4.75 diopters, and astigmatism of -2.00 diopters; whereas my current glasses prescription is: right eye -5.00 diopters, left eye -5.75 diopters, and astigmatism of -2.00 diopters.
During the refraction, the optometrist had me try on different lenses, but I felt that I couldn't see clearly.
The doctor indicated that my current lens prescription is too high and advised against getting such a high prescription for the new glasses, noting that I am still young and my eyes recover quickly, so I should adapt to a lower prescription.
Additionally, the doctor suggested that if I feel I can't see clearly, I should choose a value between the current prescription and the new test results.
I later recalled that the last vision test results were: right eye -4.75 diopters, left eye -5.50 diopters.
Based on this data, I considered adding +0.25 diopters to each eye as my current glasses.
I find that this new pair of glasses has excellent clarity.
I would like to ask if such a large discrepancy is due to an error during the refraction? Should I get retested? I originally planned to use this test result to get glasses with the same +0.25 diopters for each eye.
Now I am concerned that doing so may result in an insufficient prescription for the new glasses, potentially worsening my myopia.
I look forward to your response.
Thank you.

Raven Walker, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/07/31

Dr. Liang Ce reply Ophthalmology

It is recommended that you discuss the above situation with your attending physician to determine if further examinations are necessary.
Thank you, and wishing you good health!

Reply Date: 2022/07/31

More Info

When it comes to understanding prescription differences when getting new glasses, it's essential to consider several factors that can influence your vision and the effectiveness of your new lenses. Based on your recent experience, it seems you have encountered a common situation where the prescription from your eye exam differs significantly from your current glasses. Let's break down the key points to help you navigate this situation.

Firstly, it's important to understand that eye prescriptions can change over time due to various factors, including age, eye health, and lifestyle. The fact that your new prescription shows lower degrees of myopia (near-sightedness) compared to your current glasses suggests that your eyes may have improved or that the previous prescription was higher than necessary. This is not uncommon, especially in younger individuals whose eyes can adapt and change more rapidly.

The eye care professional's recommendation to try a lower prescription is based on the principle that over-correcting myopia can lead to discomfort and visual strain. When you wear glasses with a prescription that is too strong, your eyes may become reliant on that correction, potentially leading to further deterioration of your vision over time. Therefore, the suggestion to find a middle ground between your current prescription and the new one is a practical approach.

Regarding your concern about the significant difference in prescriptions, it is possible that variations in testing conditions, equipment calibration, or even subjective factors during the eye exam could contribute to discrepancies. For instance, if you were feeling fatigued or distracted during the exam, it might have affected your responses to the lens changes. Additionally, different optometrists may have slightly different methods for determining the best prescription for you.

If you feel that the new glasses with the adjusted prescription provide you with clear vision, it may be a suitable option. However, if you continue to experience visual discomfort or if your vision seems to fluctuate, it would be wise to seek a re-evaluation. An eye care professional can conduct a thorough examination to ensure that your prescription is accurate and appropriate for your visual needs.

It's also worth noting that the adaptation period for new glasses can vary. Some individuals may take a few days to adjust to a new prescription, while others might require a longer period. If you find that your vision remains unclear or if you experience symptoms such as headaches, eye strain, or discomfort, these could be signs that the prescription needs further adjustment.

In summary, while the differences in your prescriptions may raise concerns, they can be attributed to various factors, including changes in your vision and the nature of the eye exam. It is essential to listen to your body and monitor how you feel with the new glasses. If you find them comfortable and your vision is clear, you may be on the right track. However, if uncertainties persist, do not hesitate to consult with your eye care provider for a comprehensive evaluation. Your vision is crucial, and ensuring that you have the correct prescription is vital for maintaining eye health and comfort.

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