Struggling with Focus: Eye Issues and When to See a Doctor - Ophthalmology

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Attention issues


I wasn't fully focused when I got my glasses.
Although my vision is clear when I wear them, I find that my attention is not concentrated, and as soon as I try to focus, my vision becomes blurry.
However, over time, my eyes seem to have adapted to this state.
With my glasses on, everything is clear, but I find it difficult to concentrate, and my head feels uncomfortable and congested.
Should I see a doctor about this issue?

Ru, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2002/03/04

Dr. Huang Bozhen reply Ophthalmology


You should see a doctor, and if necessary, undergo a dilated fundus examination followed by a computerized refraction test to accurately determine your eyeglass prescription.

Reply Date: 2002/03/04

More Info


Struggling with focus and experiencing blurry vision can be frustrating and concerning. Based on your description, it seems that you are facing issues with your eyesight that may be affecting your ability to concentrate. While wearing glasses has improved your clarity of vision, the fact that you feel discomfort and difficulty concentrating suggests that there may be underlying issues that warrant further investigation.

First, let’s discuss the symptoms you are experiencing. Blurred vision when concentrating can be attributed to several factors, including eye strain, improper prescription of glasses, or even underlying conditions such as astigmatism or presbyopia. Eye strain, also known as asthenopia, often occurs when the eyes are overworked, especially during prolonged periods of focusing on screens or reading materials. This can lead to symptoms such as blurred vision, headaches, and a feeling of pressure around the eyes.

It is also important to consider whether your glasses prescription is accurate. If you were not fully focused during your last eye exam, it is possible that your prescription may not be optimal for your current vision needs. This could lead to discomfort and difficulty concentrating, as your eyes may be working harder to compensate for an incorrect prescription.

Additionally, if you are experiencing a sensation of pressure or discomfort in your head, this could be related to tension headaches, which are often associated with eye strain. The muscles around your eyes may be overworked, leading to a feeling of tightness or pressure in your head. This can further exacerbate your difficulty concentrating.

Given these factors, it is advisable to see an eye care professional. A comprehensive eye examination can help determine whether your current prescription is appropriate and whether there are any underlying issues contributing to your symptoms. During the examination, the optometrist or ophthalmologist will assess your visual acuity, check for any signs of eye strain, and evaluate the health of your eyes.

In the meantime, there are several strategies you can implement to alleviate your symptoms. First, practice the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break to look at something 20 feet away. This can help reduce eye strain. Additionally, ensure that your workspace is well-lit and that you are maintaining a proper distance from screens. Adjusting the brightness and contrast settings on your devices can also help reduce glare and make it easier on your eyes.

If you find that your symptoms persist despite these adjustments, or if you experience any new symptoms such as flashes of light, significant changes in vision, or persistent headaches, it is crucial to seek medical attention promptly. These could be signs of more serious conditions that require immediate evaluation.

In summary, while wearing glasses has improved your clarity of vision, the discomfort and difficulty concentrating you are experiencing suggest that further evaluation is necessary. An eye care professional can provide a thorough examination to determine the cause of your symptoms and recommend appropriate treatment options. Taking proactive steps to care for your eye health is essential, and addressing these concerns early can help prevent further complications.

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