Prescription Changes: Is Your Glasses Strength Too High or Low? - Ophthalmology

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Is the prescription increasing or decreasing?


Hello doctor, I would like to ask if feeling tightness in my eyebrows, between my brows, and on my forehead when wearing glasses could be due to having a prescription that is too strong? Or could it be due to an insufficient prescription, even though I can see clearly? I'm not sure if my prescription is high or low.
If I want to get a pair of glasses for close-up work, can I just reduce the prescription by 200 degrees? When using a computer, would enlarging the text help reduce eye strain? Does the hospital perform vision tests? Can I just tell the doctor that I want to have my prescription checked? I want to know my exact prescription, but the doctor only said that as long as I feel comfortable wearing them, that’s fine, without directly answering my question.
Do I need to have a dilated eye exam to get glasses, or can I just go to an optical shop? Thank you, doctor.

A, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/11/21

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology


Hello: You can visit an ophthalmologist to have your prescription measured.
It is advisable to reduce the prescription by 100-200 degrees when using a smartphone or laptop, aiming for comfortable and clear vision.
If the optical company has qualified optometrists, their experience can also be very valuable, and you may consider their opinions.
Increasing the font size on your computer can also help reduce eye strain.

Reply Date: 2022/11/21

More Info


When it comes to understanding prescription changes for glasses, it’s essential to consider several factors that can influence how your lenses feel and function. The sensation of tightness or discomfort around the forehead, eyebrows, or temples can indeed be related to the strength of your prescription. If your glasses prescription is too strong, it can lead to eye strain and discomfort, as your eyes may be working harder to adjust to the overly corrective lenses. Conversely, if your prescription is too weak, you might not experience discomfort, but you may find that your vision is not as clear as it could be, especially at certain distances.

If you feel that your glasses are causing discomfort, it’s a good idea to have your prescription evaluated. You mentioned that you see clearly with your current prescription, but the tightness you feel could indicate that the lenses are not the right fit for your visual needs. It’s also worth noting that the sensation of tightness can sometimes be attributed to the frame itself rather than the lenses, so ensuring that your frames fit well is equally important.

Regarding your question about reducing the prescription by 200 degrees for reading glasses, this is a common practice. Many people find that they need a lower prescription for near tasks, such as reading or using a computer. However, it’s crucial to have this adjustment made under the guidance of an eye care professional. They can assess your visual needs and determine the appropriate prescription for your reading glasses.

Using larger text on your computer can indeed help reduce eye strain. When text is larger, your eyes don’t have to work as hard to focus, which can lead to a more comfortable viewing experience. Additionally, taking regular breaks and following the 20-20-20 rule—looking at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds every 20 minutes—can help alleviate eye fatigue.

As for the process of getting your prescription checked, it’s advisable to visit an eye care professional, such as an optometrist or ophthalmologist, for a comprehensive eye exam. During this exam, they will perform various tests to determine your current prescription and assess your overall eye health. You can certainly express your desire to have your prescription checked, and they will guide you through the necessary steps. While some optical shops may offer basic refraction tests, a full eye exam is recommended to ensure that all aspects of your eye health are considered.

In summary, if you are experiencing discomfort with your current glasses, it’s essential to have your prescription evaluated by a qualified eye care professional. They can help determine whether your prescription is too high, too low, or if other factors, such as frame fit, are contributing to your discomfort. Additionally, if you are considering getting reading glasses, it’s best to consult with them to ensure that you receive the most appropriate prescription for your needs. Regular eye exams are crucial for maintaining good vision and eye health, so don’t hesitate to seek professional advice.

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