Do reading glasses do more harm than good?
Nearly one in five individuals buys over-the-counter reading glasses to avoid making an eye appointment. But are these reading glasses detrimental? Although eyestrain will not worsen your vision, finding a comfortable pair of reading glasses allows you to enjoy reading without overworking your eyes.
Without Prescription
Reading glasses not prescribed by your optometrist--such as those available at drugstores--can cause eyestrain and headaches.
Wrong Size
Over-the-counter reading glasses are often the wrong size since everyone's line of vision is different. If the center of the lens is too far from the center of your pupil, your eyes must strain to overcome this misalignment.
Defects
Some reading glasses have bubbles that distort vision and overwork your eyes, leading to headaches or nausea.
Computer Use
Using reading glasses to read digital print on your computer screen can cause eyestrain since your computer is often farther from your eyes than a book would be.
Solution
Reading glasses are meant to prevent eyestrain, so if they allow you to read comfortably without headaches, they are beneficial. However, if you cannot find an over-the-counter pair that allow you to read without effort, ask your optometrist for a prescription pair.
Tags: reading glasses, your eyes, allow read, cause eyestrain, , your computer