Our eyes allow us to navigate and enjoy the world around us, and proper eye care is essential to protecting this vital sense. Wearing the correct prescription plays an important role in maintaining clear and comfortable vision. Many people wonder whether wearing glasses or contact lenses with the wrong prescription can cause lasting damage. While the effects differ between adults and children, understanding the risks helps ensure long-term eye health.
The Impact of Incorrect Prescription Eyewear
Temporary Discomfort and Vision Problems
Wearing eyeglasses or contact lenses with the wrong prescription commonly results in temporary discomfort and visual disturbances. Some of the most frequent symptoms include:
- Blurred vision
- Eye strain
- Headaches
- Eye fatigue
These issues occur because your eyes must work harder to compensate for the incorrect prescription. Although adults typically do not experience permanent damage from short-term use of the wrong prescription, the discomfort can significantly affect daily activities and overall visual comfort.
Risks for Children’s Eye Health
For children, wearing an incorrect prescription can have more serious consequences. Since the visual system is still developing, improper correction can contribute to the progression of refractive errors such as myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism. In some cases, it may also increase the risk of amblyopia, which can lead to reduced vision in one eye if not addressed promptly.
The Connection Between Wrong Prescriptions and Myopia Progression
Incorrect prescriptions may also influence the progression of myopia, especially in children. If the eyes repeatedly attempt to focus images inaccurately, the strain can contribute to changes in the shape of the eye. This can increase nearsightedness over time, which makes accurate and regularly updated prescriptions essential for growing children.
Recognizing You Have the Wrong Prescription
If you recently started wearing new glasses or contacts and notice discomfort, you may simply be adjusting to them. However, persistent issues such as blurred vision, headaches, dizziness, or frequent squinting may indicate that the prescription is not correct. Contact your optometrist to have your prescription reassessed if these symptoms do not improve.
Regular Eye Exams Are Crucial
Routine eye exams are the best way to ensure that your prescription remains accurate. These visits allow your optometrist to detect even minor vision changes and help prevent complications that can arise from outdated eyewear. Adults typically need an updated prescription every one to two years, while children or individuals with known eye conditions may require more frequent checkups.
How Opti-Care Can Help
Opti-Care provides comprehensive eye care tailored to your individual needs. Our experienced optometrists use advanced diagnostic tools to ensure your prescription is precise and your eyes are healthy. Whether you are experiencing symptoms of an incorrect prescription or simply need your regular exam, we are here to help you maintain clear and comfortable vision.
Schedule Your Eye Exam Today
If you are experiencing discomfort with your eyewear or it has been some time since your last eye exam, contact Opti-Care today. We proudly serve patients in Eldersburg, MD. Call (410) 795-8670 or fill out our online form to schedule your appointment and enjoy clearer, more comfortable vision.