Managing High Myopia: Eye Strain and Glasses Prescription Concerns

Q: Managing High Myopia: Eye Strain and Glasses Prescription Concerns

Hello, Chen： 1. You can try a pair of multifocal glasses, which may help reduce eye strain while providing clear vision for both distance and near. Please have your eyes dilated for an accurate prescription before getting them made. 2. If the prescription shows

It is difficult to see clearly without wearing my glasses, which have a prescription of -2.00 diopters?

1.
Doctor, my eyesight is -1350 and -1425 diopters.
An eye clinic nearby mentioned that wearing glasses with a lower prescription could reduce the likelihood of worsening my myopia.
I've been wearing glasses with approximately -1150 to -1200 diopters for about nine months, and I've experienced a sensation of eye strain and pain that I've never had before.
It took several days to improve, and when I went to the hospital for an examination, the machine indicated a significant increase in my prescription.
However, the actual refraction results showed no worsening.
The nurse mentioned that anxiety could cause such phenomena and advised me not to worry too much.
She suggested that my effort to see distant objects with these glasses might be causing eye fatigue, as I didn't experience such a significant difference when wearing my previous prescription glasses.

Should I get a new pair of glasses with a more appropriate prescription? I've heard from some optical shops that at my age of 28, I have passed the age where my myopia would typically worsen, but as a patient with high myopia, I can't help but feel concerned about this issue.
2.
Regarding the eye strain and pain, the nearby eye clinic said it was just fatigue and prescribed regular eye drops.
Is it really that simple?
3.
Doctor, is there a possibility for me to undergo laser surgery for my vision? Thank you for taking the time to answer my questions.

Chen, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/02/18

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology

Hello, Chen:
1.
You can try a pair of multifocal glasses, which may help reduce eye strain while providing clear vision for both distance and near.
Please have your eyes dilated for an accurate prescription before getting them made.
2.
If the prescription shows a stronger degree, it is usually due to the ciliary muscle working hard, which may be caused by eye fatigue.
3.
Laser surgery can eliminate the need for glasses; however, if your myopia continues to worsen, there may still be changes after the procedure.
Additionally, many factors need to be evaluated, such as corneal thickness, so it's essential to have an eye doctor conduct a thorough examination first.
Taiwan E-Hospital Puzi Hospital Ophthalmology: Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM; Wednesday, 1:00 PM to 4:30 PM.
We hope to have the opportunity to serve you.
Gao Pi-Lin

Reply Date: 2016/02/18

More Info

Managing high myopia, particularly at levels as high as -1350 and -1425 diopters, can be quite challenging. Your concerns about eye strain, the adequacy of your glasses prescription, and the potential for laser surgery are all valid and deserve careful consideration.

1. Glasses Prescription: It is crucial to wear glasses that accurately reflect your current prescription. Wearing under-corrected lenses (like your current -1150 to -1200 diopters) can lead to increased eye strain, as your eyes may work harder to focus, especially for distance vision. This strain can manifest as discomfort, fatigue, and even pain, as you've experienced. While some practitioners suggest that under-correcting can slow the progression of myopia, this approach is not universally accepted and may not be appropriate for everyone, especially for those with high myopia. It would be advisable to consult with an eye care professional who specializes in myopia management to determine the best course of action regarding your prescription. If your current glasses are causing discomfort, it may be beneficial to obtain a new pair that matches your full prescription.

2. Eye Strain and Pain: The sensation of eye strain and pain you are experiencing could indeed be related to the under-correction of your glasses. Eye strain can occur when the eyes are forced to work harder than normal, leading to symptoms such as aching, fatigue, and even headaches. While it is possible that the eye care provider you consulted attributed your symptoms to fatigue and prescribed artificial tears, it is essential to ensure that there are no underlying issues, such as changes in the retina or other ocular structures, particularly given your high myopia. Regular comprehensive eye exams are crucial for monitoring the health of your eyes, especially since high myopia can increase the risk of complications like retinal detachment, glaucoma, and cataracts.

3. Laser Surgery Considerations: Regarding laser surgery, such as LASIK or PRK, candidates typically need to have a stable prescription for at least a year. However, high myopia can complicate the candidacy for these procedures. Not all individuals with high myopia are suitable candidates for laser surgery, and the degree of myopia can limit the effectiveness of the procedure. Additionally, the risks associated with surgery, including potential complications, should be thoroughly discussed with a qualified ophthalmologist who specializes in refractive surgery. They can provide a detailed assessment of your eye health and determine if you are a suitable candidate for laser correction.

In summary, it is essential to address your current glasses prescription to alleviate eye strain and discomfort. Regular follow-ups with an eye care professional are crucial for monitoring your eye health, especially given your high myopia. If you are considering laser surgery, ensure you have a thorough evaluation to understand your options and the associated risks. Always prioritize your eye health and seek professional guidance tailored to your specific needs.

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