Should You Wear Glasses All Day for Astigmatism? - Ophthalmology

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Does astigmatism require wearing glasses all day?


Hello, I currently have a myopia of about -1.00 diopters and astigmatism of -1.50 diopters.
I have always been accustomed to wearing glasses only for distance vision.
However, during my recent visit to get new glasses, the optometrist recommended that I wear them all day, as my myopia is not severe but my astigmatism is relatively high.
I have mostly adapted to the prescription of my new glasses, but my mother hopes I will return to my previous habit of wearing glasses only for distance vision.
The reason is that the optometrist mentioned that myopia is irreversible, but I experienced a gradual increase in my myopia to over -2.00 diopters before graduation, which then decreased to -1.00 diopters after graduation.
Therefore, my mother believes that the optometrist's advice is just a reference and that I should stick to my own habits.
I would like to ask if, in this situation, it is necessary for me to wear glasses all day, or if it is sufficient to wear them only for distance vision.
Thank you!

Wu, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/01/25

Dr. Liang Ce reply Ophthalmology


It is recommended that you consult with an ophthalmologist at the outpatient clinic.
Thank you, and wish you good health!

Reply Date: 2023/01/25

More Info


When it comes to wearing glasses for astigmatism, the recommendation to wear them all day largely depends on the severity of your astigmatism and how it affects your daily activities. Astigmatism is a common refractive error caused by an irregular shape of the cornea or lens, leading to blurred or distorted vision. In your case, with a prescription indicating a mild degree of myopia (near-sightedness) and a moderate level of astigmatism, it is essential to consider a few factors before deciding whether to wear glasses all day.

Firstly, astigmatism can cause visual discomfort, especially during activities that require clear vision, such as reading, using a computer, or driving. If you notice that your vision is consistently blurry or that you experience headaches or eye strain when not wearing your glasses, it may be beneficial to wear them throughout the day. This is particularly true if your work or daily tasks involve significant visual demands.

Your optometrist's recommendation to wear glasses all day is based on the understanding that while your myopia is mild, your astigmatism is more pronounced. Wearing corrective lenses can help provide clearer vision and reduce eye fatigue. It is also important to note that while myopia can stabilize or even improve in some individuals after adolescence, astigmatism typically remains constant unless treated.

Regarding your mother's concerns about your vision habits, it is essential to prioritize your eye health and comfort. While it is understandable to want to return to a previous habit of only wearing glasses for distance, this may not be the best choice for your current visual needs. The fact that you have adapted to your new prescription suggests that your eyes are responding well to the correction, and wearing glasses consistently can help maintain that clarity.

Moreover, it is worth mentioning that not wearing glasses when needed can lead to further eye strain and discomfort, potentially exacerbating any existing issues. If you are concerned about the long-term effects of wearing glasses, it is advisable to have regular eye examinations to monitor your vision and make any necessary adjustments to your prescription.

In conclusion, while it may be tempting to revert to wearing glasses only for distance, the recommendation to wear them all day is likely in your best interest, especially given your astigmatism. Clear vision is crucial for your overall well-being and can significantly impact your quality of life. If you have any doubts or experience discomfort, consider discussing your concerns further with your optometrist, who can provide personalized advice based on your specific situation. Remember, prioritizing your eye health is essential, and wearing glasses as prescribed can help you achieve the best possible vision.

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