Vision Discrepancies: Should You Wear Glasses for Uneven Eyesight? - Ophthalmology

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There is a disparity in visual acuity between the two eyes?


Hello Doctor: I am currently a senior student.
Since the first year of high school, I have developed myopia in my left eye, but the degree is not high (it seems that my vision has not worsened since entering university).
Today, during the military service physical examination, I was told that my left eye has myopia of 125 degrees and astigmatism of 50 degrees, while my right eye has no myopia at all.
They mentioned that I could go to the hospital for further examination to see if I need glasses.
I would like to ask, if my vision differs between my two eyes like this, what problems might arise if I do not wear glasses? I feel that sometimes things appear a bit blurry (very rarely, maybe less than five times a day, and it only lasts for a few seconds).
Additionally, I would like to ask if the myopia in my left eye is related to the slight difference in size between my eyes that I noticed as I grew up.
My left eye appears slightly smaller, with a bit less exposure of the pupil (this is from my visa photo: https://www.dropbox.com/s/s4s5i5kyggc56wp/Chung%20Yi%20Li.jpg?dl=0).
Or could it simply be due to weakness in the muscles of the left eye? Thank you very much, Doctor, for taking the time to read this.
I appreciate it!

Zhong Yili, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/01/05

Dr. Wang Zhishun reply Ophthalmology


Hello: Theoretically, your current condition does not require corrective lenses unless there are situations where you need optimal vision in both eyes.
As for the difference in eye size, it is not related to your prescription, and your situation does not reach the level of significant anisometropia, so there is no need to worry.

Reply Date: 2016/01/05

More Info


When it comes to vision discrepancies, particularly in cases where one eye has myopia (nearsightedness) and the other does not, it is essential to understand the implications of not wearing corrective lenses. In your case, with a left eye that has a mild myopia of -1.25 diopters and astigmatism of -0.50 diopters, while the right eye is emmetropic (no refractive error), there are several factors to consider.

Firstly, not wearing glasses when there is a significant difference in vision between the two eyes can lead to a condition known as "anisometropia." This condition can cause visual discomfort, including symptoms such as double vision, blurred vision, or difficulty focusing. The brain may struggle to fuse the images from both eyes, leading to a phenomenon known as "suppression," where the brain ignores the input from the weaker eye (in your case, the left eye). Over time, this can potentially lead to amblyopia, or "lazy eye," where the vision in the suppressed eye does not develop properly.

You mentioned experiencing occasional visual disturbances, such as the sensation of things appearing "dispersed." This could be attributed to the difference in focus between your two eyes. When your brain tries to process images from both eyes, it may struggle to reconcile the differences, especially during tasks that require fine visual acuity, such as reading or using a computer. Wearing corrective lenses can help align the visual input from both eyes, reducing strain and improving overall visual comfort.

Regarding your concern about the size difference between your eyes, it is not uncommon for individuals to have slight anatomical variations. The size of the eye itself does not directly correlate with refractive errors like myopia. However, if one eye is smaller or has a different shape, it could potentially influence how light is focused within that eye, leading to refractive errors. Muscle weakness or imbalance around the eyes can also contribute to visual discrepancies, but these are typically assessed through a comprehensive eye examination.

In terms of whether you should wear glasses, it is advisable to consult with an eye care professional for a thorough examination. They can determine if corrective lenses are necessary based on your specific visual needs and lifestyle. If you find that your left eye is causing discomfort or visual strain, wearing glasses could alleviate these symptoms and improve your overall visual experience.

If you choose not to wear glasses, it is essential to monitor your vision closely. If you notice any worsening of your symptoms or changes in your vision, seek professional advice promptly. Regular eye exams are crucial, especially during periods of growth and development, such as your college years.

In summary, wearing glasses can help balance the visual input from both eyes, reduce strain, and improve clarity. While your current level of myopia is mild, addressing it with corrective lenses can prevent potential complications in the future. Always prioritize your eye health by consulting with a qualified eye care professional who can provide personalized recommendations based on your unique situation.

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