Should You Wear Cheap Reading Glasses for Pseudo Myopia?

The question often arises among individuals who spend a lot of time on close-up work, such as reading or using computer screens, if they should wear cheap reading glasses to manage pseudo myopia. This article aims to clarify the issues and provide guidance on the best practices for wearing reading glasses to prevent eye strain.

Understanding Pseudo Myopia

Pseudo myopia is a temporary condition where the eye focuses light slightly in front of the retina instead of directly on it. This often results from extended near work, causing the eye to overcompensate, leading to visual strain. While pseudo myopia is temporary, proper care can help it revert to normal vision.

The Role of Proper Corrective Glasses

Wearing the right corrective glasses is crucial for individuals with pseudo myopia. Ideally, these glasses should include variable anti-fatigue lenses that correct the myopia and reduce visual strain. Opting for cheaper, low-quality glasses can lead to compromised vision and further strain. This is because such lenses may not properly align the light with the retina, leading to continued visual discomfort and potential long-term eye strain.

Preventing Eye Strain

There are several ways to reduce the risk of eye strain while working on close-up tasks:

Take Frequent Breaks: Every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break to look at something 20 feet away. This is known as the 20-20-20 rule and helps give your eyes a break from focusing on nearby objects. Use a Window or Mirror: If possible, look out the window or use a mirror to look at something far in the distance. This helps to relax your eye muscles and reduce strain.

Professional Diagnosis and Advice

Before making any decisions about corrective glasses, it is important to seek a professional diagnosis from an optometrist. Self-diagnosis using online resources may lead to misinformed choices. An optometrist can provide proper advice based on a thorough examination of your eyes. They can also guide you on the appropriate power of glasses needed to correct your vision comfortably.

The Effectiveness of Reading Glasses

For individuals with 'normal' sight or myopia requiring a prescription lower than -2, using 0.5 to 1.5 reading glasses can be beneficial. However, it is essential to choose the correct power through professional advice. Wearing the wrong power can disrupt the delicate balance of eye alignment required for reading.

Choosing the Right Reading Glasses

While the right reading glasses can help reduce eye strain, the quality of the glasses is crucial. Some Asian manufactures produce high-quality frames and lenses that are affordable. When choosing glasses, look for features such as:

Anti-Reflective Coatings: These can help reduce glare and eye strain. Anti-Blue Light Filters: While not necessary for everyone, these can help reduce the impact of blue light from screens. Light Tint: A light brown or amber tint can help reduce the impact of artificial lighting and provide a more comfortable viewing experience.

For individuals who spend long hours working on close-up tasks, investing in high-quality reading glasses is a smart choice to ensure clear and comfortable vision and to avoid eye strain and potential accidents.

Conclusion

Managing pseudo myopia effectively requires proper corrections and care. While it is possible to use lower-quality glasses, the benefits of high-quality, appropriately prescribed reading glasses far outweigh the initial cost. Regular visits to an optometrist and following professional advice can help maintain optimal vision and reduce the risk of long-term eye strain.