Vision Problems: When to Update Your Glasses

Q: Vision Problems: When to Update Your Glasses

Hello： 1. <br>Do you need to get a new pair of glasses? Yes, based on the recommendation of your ophthalmologist, you need to get a new pair of glasses. <br>Since your prescription has changed, your current glasses may not provide adequate correction, leading to eye strain and he

Vision examination issues

Hello Dr.
Gao, I am 43 years old this year.
Currently, my glasses prescription is -5.50 diopters with +2.00 astigmatism for my left eye, and -5.00 diopters with +2.50 astigmatism for my right eye.
I have been wearing these multifocal glasses for three years, but recently, wearing them has been causing headaches.
I also tried adjusting the angle of the glasses at the optical store, but it did not help.
Later, I went back to my original optical store (JINS) for a refraction test, and the staff informed me that my left eye could only be corrected to 0.8 vision.
They suggested that I see an ophthalmologist to check for any underlying eye issues.
The next day, I visited an ophthalmology clinic for an examination.
Before dilation, my left eye was measured at -5.25 diopters with +2.00 astigmatism, and my right eye at -4.50 diopters with +2.25 astigmatism.
After dilation, my left eye was -5.00 diopters with +2.00 astigmatism, and my right eye was -4.00 diopters with +2.25 astigmatism.
The doctor recommended that I get a new pair of glasses based on the post-dilation prescription, as my current prescription is too strong, causing eye strain and indirectly leading to headaches.
Since I work as an administrative assistant and spend 8 hours a day on the computer, and also use my phone for 2-3 hours after work, my need for glasses is quite high.
Additionally, I have noticed some presbyopia as I age.
Therefore, I would like to ask Dr.
Gao the following questions:
1.
Do I need to get a new pair of glasses?
2.
If so, should the new glasses be based on the post-dilation prescription?
3.
If I want to get multifocal glasses, how should the distance, intermediate, and near prescriptions be determined?
4.
On weekends, I switch to contact lenses; how should the prescription for the contact lenses be adjusted?
Thank you for your assistance, Dr.
Gao!

Zoe, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/10/31

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology

Hello: 1.
Do you need to get a new pair of glasses? Yes, based on the recommendation of your ophthalmologist, you need to get a new pair of glasses.
Since your prescription has changed, your current glasses may not provide adequate correction, leading to eye strain and headaches.
A new pair of glasses can help you see more clearly and reduce discomfort.
2.
If needed, should the prescription for the new glasses be based on the measurements taken after dilation? Yes, typically, the ophthalmologist will use the measurements taken after dilation as the basis for the new glasses prescription.
The post-dilation measurements are closer to your eyes' natural state, providing optimal visual correction.
Please ensure that your new glasses prescription is based on the latest test results.
3.
If I want to get multifocal glasses, how should the distance, intermediate, and near prescriptions be determined? For distance, use the post-dilation prescription; for near vision, use the appropriate near prescription (it can be slightly lower).
The ophthalmologist and optician can adjust these prescriptions based on your individual needs.
4.
Since I will be wearing contact lenses on the holidays, how should the prescription for the contact lenses be determined? The prescription for contact lenses should match your glasses prescription.
Please use the prescription from your glasses to select the appropriate contact lens prescription.
There are also multifocal contact lenses available.

Reply Date: 2023/10/31

More Info

Hello! Thank you for your detailed inquiry regarding your vision issues and the need for new glasses. Based on the information you've provided, let's address your questions one by one.

1. Do you need to get a new pair of glasses?
Yes, it seems that you do need to get a new pair of glasses. The fact that your current glasses are causing headaches and discomfort indicates that they may not be providing the correct vision correction for your eyes anymore. The recent eye examination revealed changes in your prescription, particularly a decrease in the degree of myopia (nearsightedness) and astigmatism in both eyes. Wearing glasses with an outdated prescription can lead to eye strain, fatigue, and headaches, especially given your extensive screen time at work and home.

2. Should the new glasses be based on the post-dilation prescription?
Yes, the new glasses should be based on the prescription obtained after dilation. Dilation allows for a more accurate assessment of your refractive error, as it relaxes the eye's focusing muscles and provides a clearer view of the retina and other internal structures. This is particularly important for determining the correct prescription for your glasses, ensuring that they are tailored to your current vision needs.

3. How should the prescription for multifocal glasses be set?
When it comes to multifocal glasses (also known as progressive lenses), the prescription will typically include three different zones: distance, intermediate, and near vision. The distance prescription will be based on your corrected vision for far away objects, which in your case would be the post-dilation prescription. The intermediate zone is usually set for tasks like using a computer, which is typically around 20-30 inches away, and the near zone is for reading or other close-up tasks. Your optometrist will take specific measurements of your pupillary distance (PD) and the fitting height to ensure that the lenses are correctly aligned with your eyes for optimal vision at all distances.

4. What about the prescription for contact lenses?
For contact lenses, the prescription may differ from your glasses prescription due to the distance of the lens from the eye. Contacts sit directly on the eye, while glasses are positioned further away. Therefore, you will need a separate contact lens fitting to determine the appropriate prescription. This fitting will take into account the curvature of your eye, the diameter of the lens, and any astigmatism correction needed. It's essential to consult with your eye care professional to get the correct contact lens prescription.

In summary, it is advisable to get new glasses based on your updated prescription after dilation. Multifocal lenses will require careful consideration of your vision needs at different distances, and contact lenses will necessitate a separate fitting. Given your age and the onset of presbyopia (the gradual loss of the eye's ability to focus on nearby objects), it's crucial to ensure that your vision correction is up to date to prevent further discomfort and maintain visual clarity.

Additionally, considering your daily screen time, you might want to discuss with your eye care provider about blue light blocking lenses or anti-reflective coatings, which can help reduce eye strain associated with prolonged computer use. Regular eye examinations are also important as they can help monitor any changes in your vision and ensure that you are using the most appropriate corrective lenses.

If you have any further questions or concerns, please feel free to reach out. Your eye health is important, and staying proactive about your vision care will help you maintain clear and comfortable sight.

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