Do Glasses Make Your Vision Worse?

Many people wear glasses to correct their vision and improve their day-to-day life.  However, there is a common misconception that actually wearing your glasses can make your vision worse over time. In this blog, we will explore both sides of the argument and provide insight into how glasses impact your vision.

How Glasses Work

Before delving into whether or not glasses make your vision worse over time, it is crucial to have a reasonable understanding of how they work. Glasses are ingeniously designed to correct refractive errors in the eye. The first-ever glasses came about in Italy sometime between 1268 and 1300, though the exact date is disputed. Basically, they were two magnifying glasses hooked up with a hinge, resting on the bridge of the nose.

Refractive Errors

Refractive errors, such as nearsightedness (myopia) or farsightedness (hyperopia) occur when the eye fails to bend the light directly onto the retina. This distortion leads to a blurred image. Glasses work by redirecting the light so it accurately hits the retina, helping the eye ‘see’ how it should.

These refractive errors are often hereditary and can change annually, which requires updates to your prescriptions.

The Myth of Dependency

One of the common false impressions we hear when people come in for an eye test is that you become dependent on your glasses. Wearing your prescriptions does not make you dependent on glasses. Many believe it causes your eyes to become lazy but it couldn’t be further from the truth. Glasses do not weaken your eyes, instead, they provide the necessary correction for proper vision.

Changes in Prescription

Changes in prescription are common across a span of 1-3 years. This doesn’t mean that your glasses are making your vision worse. There is a multitude of factors that impact your eye health and people suffering from eye conditions may experience more frequent changes. There is no evidence that suggests wearing your glasses causes your vision to worsen.

Regular eye tests ensure that your glasses fit your current, while also screening you for a multitude of other health conditions.

Eye Strain and Glasses

Wearing glasses will almost always reduce eye strain and discomfort while promoting overall eye health. If you have just received a new prescription is it important you understand there is a transitional period. During this time your eyes need to acclimate to the improved vision. This can be both exciting but also nauseating for some. If you experience dizziness when wearing your glasses you are likely dealing with a depth perception issue. A good way to think of this issue is motion sickness.

If you continuously experience this for any longer than a week, we suggest you get in touch with your optometrist for further guidance.

Common Misconceptions

Let’s address some common misconceptions:

• Myth: Glasses weaken your eyes. Reality: They provide necessary corrections.
• Myth: You become dependent on glasses. Reality: They enhance your vision without causing dependency.
• Myth: Not wearing glasses strengthens your eyes. Reality: This can lead to eye strain and discomfort.

Take The Professionals Advice

So do glasses make your vision worse? No, of course wearing glasses does not make your vision worse. They are a helpful tool to correct refractive errors and reduce eye strain. However, in saying that, it’s essential to maintain regular eye check-ups and update your prescription as needed for optimal eye health.

If you are overdue an eye exam or are looking to update your existing glasses feel free to get in touch. Give the practice a call on 01323 442 062 or email info@focusmedicaleyecentre.co.uk for some additional information.