Wearing contact lenses that are “too strong” means their diopter power is higher than what your eyes actually need for clear vision. This mismatch can lead to various uncomfortable symptoms and potential vision issues. Obtaining an accurate prescription through a professional eye examination is important for proper vision correction and eye health.
Immediate Signs of Over-Correction
Wearing contact lenses with an excessive power can quickly lead to noticeable discomfort and visual disturbances. Individuals often experience headaches as their ocular muscles strain to compensate for the over-magnification. Eye strain, a feeling of fatigue or pulling within the eyes, is another common symptom, stemming from the constant effort to correctly focus.
Vision may appear blurred, especially for tasks requiring close-up focus, or a general “over-focused” sensation can occur. Dizziness or disorientation, which can impact balance and coordination, may also be reported. Difficulty concentrating on visual tasks and general eye discomfort are also common.
Potential Long-Term Effects
If contact lenses that are too strong are worn for an extended duration, the immediate discomfort can evolve into more chronic issues. Persistent eye strain and fatigue become more pronounced, leading to ongoing discomfort throughout the day. Chronic headaches may also develop or worsen due to the continuous over-accommodation by the eye muscles.
While wearing overly strong lenses causes significant discomfort and strain, it does not result in irreversible structural damage to the eye itself. Instead, it forces the eye’s focusing muscles to work harder than necessary. This constant muscle exertion can impact daily activities like reading, computer work, and driving, making them more challenging and uncomfortable. Some individuals might also experience increased sensitivity to light due to the prolonged strain on their visual system.
Addressing and Preventing Over-Correction
If you suspect your contact lenses are too strong, contacting an optometrist or ophthalmologist immediately for a re-evaluation of your prescription is advised. It is important to avoid attempting to self-diagnose or adjust your prescription, as this can worsen symptoms or lead to further complications. Professional assessment ensures that the correct diopter power is determined for your specific visual needs.
Preventing over-correction involves consistent and proper eye care practices. Regular, comprehensive eye examinations are important to ensure your prescription remains accurate and up-to-date. Purchasing contact lenses without a valid, current prescription should be avoided, as this increases the risk of receiving an incorrect power. Discussing all visual symptoms, lifestyle needs, and any changes in vision with your eye doctor during an exam can help them prescribe the most appropriate lenses.