Addressing Common Eye Care Concerns: Your Questions Answered

Q: Addressing Common Eye Care Concerns: Your Questions Answered

Hello： 1. <br>If you have been using your smartphone or tablet for extended periods, it may have some impact on your eyes. <br>Regarding concerns about having a prescription that is too weak, eye care professionals typically take into account your usage habits and eye condition w

Previous question

Hello, doctor.
Thank you for your response.
I have some follow-up questions:
1.
Previously, the doctor mentioned that it’s unlikely for my prescription to increase so much unless I constantly use my phone or tablet, and that dilation is necessary.
However, I do use my phone and tablet frequently.
I’m concerned that if my prescription is measured while dilated, it might be too low, and consequently, the glasses prescribed could also be insufficient.
After all, I won’t be dilating my eyes every day, and I’m worried about potential issues like glaucoma.
2.
Currently, my prescription for my near vision is actually stronger in one eye, which is not sufficient and causes some blurriness.
If I get that eye corrected a bit more, will it help improve my coordination? I can’t see clearly at a distance at all, and I have astigmatism.
However, if my coordination is poor, would it be better not to overcorrect my prescription?
3.
Would you recommend using multifocal lenses?
4.
Does the comprehensive refractor include a cross-cylinder lens? I read that when measuring the axis of astigmatism, it may not be accurate without a cross-cylinder lens.

Xī bān yá hǎi xiān dùn fàn, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/08/10

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology

Hello: 1.
If you have been using your smartphone or tablet for extended periods, it may have some impact on your eyes.
Regarding concerns about having a prescription that is too weak, eye care professionals typically take into account your usage habits and eye condition when prescribing glasses to ensure that the prescription meets your needs and is not too weak.
As for issues like glaucoma, proper use of dilation is safe; however, if you have concerns, it is advisable to consult with an ophthalmologist for further guidance.
2.
Based on your situation, it would be better to get a pair of reading glasses.
Both eyes should have a moderate reduction.
For distance vision, both eyes should have a full prescription.
3.
Using multifocal lenses (such as bifocals or advanced progressive lenses) is an option, especially suitable for those who need good vision at different distances.
If you prefer not to wear two pairs of glasses, you might consider this option.
4.
A comprehensive refractor typically includes the ability to measure astigmatism axis.
However, using a refractor along with manual trial lenses for astigmatism and adjusting the axis can also yield accurate results; a cross-cylinder is not necessarily required.

Reply Date: 2023/08/10

More Info

Dear Patient,
Thank you for your questions regarding your eye care concerns. It’s important to address these issues comprehensively, as they can significantly affect your vision and overall eye health. Let’s go through your queries one by one.

1. Concerns About Prescription Changes and Use of Dilating Drops: It’s understandable to be apprehensive about how dilating drops might affect your prescription. Dilating drops temporarily widen your pupils, allowing your eye doctor to examine the retina and other internal structures more effectively. While it’s true that excessive screen time can contribute to changes in your vision, the use of dilating drops is a standard practice and should not lead to a permanent change in your prescription. If you are concerned about the potential for glaucoma, it’s essential to discuss this with your eye care provider. Regular eye exams can help monitor your eye pressure and overall eye health, which is crucial in preventing glaucoma.

2. Adjusting Your Prescription for Near Vision: If you find that your near vision is not clear, it may be beneficial to adjust your prescription accordingly. If one eye has a significantly stronger prescription for distance, it might lead to discomfort or difficulty in focusing, especially when switching between near and far tasks. A slight increase in the prescription for your weaker eye could help improve coordination and reduce blurriness. However, it’s essential to balance this with your overall visual needs. If you have astigmatism, ensuring that your prescription accurately reflects this is crucial for clear vision.

3. Multifocal Lenses Recommendation: Multifocal lenses can be an excellent option if you require correction for both near and distance vision. They allow for a smooth transition between different focal lengths, which can enhance your visual comfort, especially if you frequently switch between tasks like reading on a screen and looking at distant objects. However, it’s essential to have a thorough discussion with your eye care professional about whether multifocal lenses are suitable for your specific vision needs and lifestyle.

4. Use of Cross-Cylinder in Refraction Tests: Yes, a comprehensive refraction test typically includes the use of a cross-cylinder lens to measure astigmatism accurately. This lens helps determine the axis and degree of astigmatism by allowing the eye care professional to assess how light is focused in your eyes. If a cross-cylinder is not used, it could lead to an inaccurate measurement of your astigmatism, which is crucial for determining the correct prescription for your glasses or contact lenses.

In summary, it’s vital to maintain regular eye exams, especially given your concerns about screen time and potential changes in your vision. Discussing your symptoms and any discomfort with your eye care provider will help ensure that you receive the most appropriate care. They can provide tailored advice based on your specific situation, including whether to adjust your prescription, consider multifocal lenses, or monitor for any signs of glaucoma.

Remember, taking breaks from screens, practicing the 20-20-20 rule (every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds), and maintaining a healthy lifestyle can also contribute positively to your eye health. If you have further questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out to your eye care professional.

Wishing you the best in your eye health journey!
Sincerely,
Doctor Q&A Teams

Similar Q&A

Apologies for the Inconvenience: Eye Care Concerns Addressed

Thank you for your previous response, and I apologize for any inconvenience caused.

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology
Hello, concerned individual: Because your question is not within my area of expertise, I recommend consulting a retinal specialist for potentially different opinions. I understand that online Q&A may not fundamentally resolve your issue, and I hope for your understanding. Sin...

Common Eye Care Questions: Health Insurance Coverage and Treatment Concerns

Hello, Doctor. I would like to ask a few questions: 1. A few days ago, an eyelash fell onto my eyeball. At first, I was a bit anxious and tried to use a cotton swab to remove it. Could this cause any harm to my eye (it was located quite close to the pupil)? I eventually managed...

Dr. Cai Wenyuan reply Ophthalmology
Hello, I was a bit anxious and tried to use a cotton swab to remove it, which could potentially harm my eyes. The hospital has scheduled an OCT and visual field examination soon. I am unsure if this will result in needing to pay out of pocket for the OCT examination later. If the...

Facing the Fear of Blindness: A Young Professional's Eye Health Journey

Hello, Doctor. I am highly myopic with astigmatism and work in the technology industry, where I spend long hours using a computer. I have been working for less than a year. In April, I was suspected of having glaucoma, and in June, I underwent visual field tests, fundus photograp...

Dr. He Jianxian reply Ophthalmology
Hello: I think you are worrying too much. I suggest you come to our outpatient clinic for an examination; the explanation will be clearer. Wishing you good health.

Addressing Common Vision Issues: Myopia, Eye Strain, and Glare Concerns

Hello, Doctor. I have some questions regarding my high myopia (right eye -1500, left eye -1300). Q1: I have heard that using old glasses can be more comfortable for long periods of reading or using a computer. However, my old glasses were prescribed several years ago with a pre...

Dr. Cai Wenyuan reply Ophthalmology
Hello, it is best to consult an ophthalmologist for an eye examination and prescription for glasses. Additionally, it is necessary to have an examination for high myopia. Wishing you safety and health. Sincerely, Dr. Tsai Wen-Yuan, Director of the Department of Ophthalmology, Tao...