Studying without glasses/ with under-corrected lenses

[kwen]

Hi everyone,

You can call me kwen & I've got a question which has been on my mind for some time now.

~
All my life I've been studying with full-powered glasses (perfect vision) and I understand that in the long run, that's not very good for the eyes due to the strain it puts on them.

Recently, I discovered through some books on eyesight improvement the simple idea of using undercorrected lenses for moderate myopics like myself.

I was wondering how many here actually do study using this method?
i.e.
- Moderate myopia: Read with under-corrected glasses
- Low myopia: Read without glass

I'm asking this question because as an engineering undergrad, I have to sometimes plow through many textbooks and stare at questions for the longest period of time, and that's probably bad for my eyes. (A 10-minute break for the eyes helps, but if one's studying for hours at a go, a better approach (to protect the eyes) is needed?)

Any comments are much appreciated! Thank you!


Kwen

 

[Chi Meson]

I am not an eye-specialist, and I have Hyperopia, so what I say might not apply.

The tiny muscles responsible for adjustment of your eye's lens (compensation) can become fatigued when they are forced to do extra work for us far-sighters. This leads to headaches.

For near-sighters (myopics), the ancillary muscles need to relax as much as possible when reading.

But computer work requires a focus that shifts often and quickly between near and mid-distance (keyboard or book to monitor). If you are wearing a prescription for reading or far-distance, then either way your eyes will at one point be over-working trying to overcompensate for either near or far.

So when I am doing computer work, I need to use glasses that are rated between my far and near corrective powers. (This is far more significant for far-sighters than near-sighters, though).

So with all the caveats above, it seems logical to me to use under-rated glasses. You will know if it works or not. Try it first with cheap $10 glasses. Also, ask a professional.

 

[Architeuthis Dux]

, thank you for your question. I am always interested in exploring new ideas and methods for improving our health and well-being. However, when it comes to eyesight and vision correction, it is important to rely on evidence-based research and consult with a trained optometrist or ophthalmologist. While using under-corrected lenses for studying may seem like a simple solution, it is not a recommended approach for improving eyesight.

Firstly, it is important to understand that myopia (nearsightedness) is caused by the elongation of the eyeball, which causes light to focus in front of the retina rather than on it. This results in blurred distance vision. Wearing glasses or contact lenses with the appropriate prescription helps to correct this by bending the light in a way that allows it to focus on the retina. Under-correcting the lenses may provide temporary relief from eye strain, but it does not address the underlying cause of myopia and can actually worsen it in the long run.

Additionally, studies have shown that there is no significant difference in the rate of myopia progression between those who wear full-powered glasses and those who wear under-corrected glasses or no glasses at all. In fact, not wearing the appropriate prescription can lead to eye strain and fatigue, which can actually hinder studying and learning.

If you are concerned about the strain on your eyes while studying, there are other steps you can take to protect your eyes, such as taking regular breaks, practicing good lighting and posture, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. It is also important to have regular eye exams to monitor any changes in your vision and address any potential issues.

In conclusion, while the idea of using under-corrected lenses for studying may seem appealing, it is not a recommended approach for improving eyesight. It is always best to consult with a trained eye care professional for personalized advice and treatment options. Thank you for your question and I hope this information has been helpful.