Managing High Myopia: Choosing the Right Glasses for Computer Use

Q: Managing High Myopia: Choosing the Right Glasses for Computer Use

Hello： If you work at close distances for a long time, it is recommended that your prescription for nearsighted glasses should not be too strong (i.e., not exceeding your original prescription by too much), as this can cause additional contraction of the ciliary muscles during us

Eyeglasses for high myopia?

Hello, Doctor.
I spend almost every day in the laboratory for over ten hours, and I have to look at the computer screen for my work.
Six months ago, I realized that my glasses prescription was insufficient, so I went to a nearby optical shop to get new glasses.
However, I have recently noticed that my eyes are very easily fatigued, and due to my high myopia, I visited an ophthalmology clinic.
The doctor found that my new glasses prescription was too strong (including astigmatism), which is why my eyes are so tired.
He suggested that I change the lenses.
Not convinced, I went to another shop, and they agreed that the prescription was a bit high but thought it was still acceptable.
Since I need to order custom glasses, which are quite expensive, I would like to ask if wearing glasses with a higher prescription for a long time could cause any issues.
Additionally, my friend told me that for long-term computer use, it is advisable to have two pairs of glasses: one with a lower prescription for computer work, which is better for the eyes.
Is this true? I would appreciate your clarification.
Thank you.

kimko, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2012/02/03

Dr. He Jianxian reply Ophthalmology

Hello: If you work at close distances for a long time, it is recommended that your prescription for nearsighted glasses should not be too strong (i.e., not exceeding your original prescription by too much), as this can cause additional contraction of the ciliary muscles during use, leading to easy fatigue.
Of course, getting a pair of glasses with a lower prescription specifically for computer use is also a great option.
Wishing you peace and happiness.

Reply Date: 2012/02/03

More Info

Managing high myopia, especially for individuals who spend long hours in front of computer screens, requires careful consideration of eyewear choices. High myopia, defined as a refractive error greater than -6.00 diopters, can lead to various ocular complications, including retinal detachment and macular degeneration. Therefore, it is crucial to ensure that your glasses are appropriately prescribed to minimize eye strain and maintain visual comfort.

From your description, it seems that you have experienced significant discomfort and fatigue due to the recent prescription of your glasses. This is not uncommon, especially for individuals with high myopia, as even slight inaccuracies in prescription can lead to considerable visual strain. When glasses are prescribed with too high a power, it can cause the eyes to work harder to focus, leading to symptoms such as headaches, blurred vision, and fatigue. This is particularly exacerbated when using digital devices, as the blue light emitted from screens can further contribute to eye strain.

To address your concerns, here are some key points to consider:
1. Correct Prescription: It is essential to have an accurate prescription tailored to your specific needs. If you suspect that your current glasses are too strong, it is advisable to consult with an eye care professional who can perform a comprehensive eye examination and provide a precise prescription. This may involve checking for any changes in your vision since your last prescription and ensuring that your glasses are suitable for both distance and near vision tasks.

2. Computer Glasses: Your friend's suggestion about having a separate pair of glasses for computer use is valid. Many individuals benefit from having a pair of glasses specifically designed for screen use, which typically have a slightly lower prescription. These glasses can help reduce eye strain by allowing for a more comfortable viewing distance and minimizing the need for excessive accommodation (the eye's ability to focus on near objects). Additionally, anti-reflective coatings can help reduce glare from screens, further enhancing visual comfort.

3. Blue Light Filtering: Consider lenses that offer blue light filtering, which can help reduce the potential harmful effects of prolonged screen exposure. While the research on blue light's impact on eye health is still evolving, many users report less eye fatigue when using blue light-blocking lenses.

4. Regular Breaks: Implementing the 20-20-20 rule can also be beneficial. This rule suggests that every 20 minutes, you should take a 20-second break and look at something 20 feet away. This practice helps to relax the eye muscles and reduce fatigue.

5. Long-Term Effects of Incorrect Prescription: Wearing glasses with an incorrect prescription for extended periods can lead to visual discomfort and may potentially worsen your symptoms over time. It is crucial to address any discomfort promptly and seek a suitable prescription to avoid long-term complications.

6. Follow-Up Care: Regular follow-up appointments with your eye care provider are essential, especially for individuals with high myopia. These visits allow for monitoring of any changes in your vision and the health of your eyes, ensuring that any potential issues are addressed early.

In conclusion, managing high myopia effectively involves ensuring that your eyewear is appropriate for your daily activities, particularly if you spend significant time on computers. Having a tailored prescription, considering computer-specific glasses, and practicing good eye care habits can significantly enhance your visual comfort and overall eye health. If you continue to experience discomfort, do not hesitate to seek further evaluation from an eye care professional.

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