TL;DR
If you’ve ever wondered whether wearing glasses might actually make your eyesight worse, you’re not alone. Let’s clear up the confusion by finding out what the experts say and how you can take better care of your vision.
What is the purpose of glasses?
Glasses are designed to correct how light enters your eye. They help you see more clearly by adjusting the focus, depending on whether you’re short-sighted (can’t see far away) or long-sighted (can’t see close up). They don’t cure the problem, but they make life a whole lot easier.
Wearing the right glasses helps reduce eye strain, improves comfort, and boosts your ability to carry out everyday tasks like reading or driving safely.
Do glasses make your eyes “lazy”?
Many people believe that wearing glasses all the time makes their eyes lazy. The idea is that once you start using them, your eyes get weaker because they rely on the lenses. But this is not true.
Your eyes don’t get worse because of glasses. What often happens is that your natural vision changes over time, and it may seem like glasses are to blame. In reality, you might have just become more aware of your original issue, or your eyesight may have gradually declined due to age.
What really causes your eyesight to change?
Several factors can affect your eyesight over time, including:
1. Ageing
Most people notice changes in their vision as they get older. Conditions like presbyopia (difficulty seeing up close) usually begin around your 40s. This isn’t caused by glasses but by the natural ageing of the eye.
2. Genetics
If your parents or grandparents wore glasses, there’s a good chance you might need them too. Genetics plays a strong role in eye health.
3. Digital screen use
Spending too much time on your phone, laptop, or TV can cause digital eye strain. This doesn’t damage your vision permanently, but it can make your eyes feel tired or blurry, especially if you don’t take breaks.
4. Medical conditions
Health problems like diabetes, high blood pressure, or eye conditions such as glaucoma and macular degeneration can affect your vision too. If you’re worried, always speak to your optician or GP.
When glasses might feel like they’re making things worse
Sometimes, it might seem like your eyesight is getting worse after getting glasses. Here’s why that might happen:
You’ve had the wrong prescription
If your glasses don’t match your actual needs, they could cause headaches, blurry vision, or dizziness. Always have your eyes tested by a qualified optician and follow up if anything feels off.
You’re not wearing them consistently
Switching between wearing glasses and going without can confuse your eyes and brain. This can lead to temporary blurriness or discomfort.
You’ve outgrown your prescription
If it’s been a while since your last check-up, your prescription might no longer be accurate. Our eyes change, and so should your lenses.
How to protect and support your vision
Your vision is precious. While glasses are safe and useful, there are other things you can do to keep your eyes healthy.
Eat foods rich in vitamins for eyesight
A healthy diet can help maintain good vision. Include foods with vitamins for eyesight such as:
- Vitamin A: Found in carrots, sweet potatoes, and dark leafy greens
- Vitamin C: Found in oranges, strawberries, and broccoli
- Vitamin E: Found in nuts, seeds, and spinach
- Zinc and omega-3 fatty acids: Found in fish, eggs, and whole grains
These nutrients help protect the eyes from age-related damage and keep them functioning properly.
Take regular screen breaks
Follow the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds. This simple habit can help reduce eye strain, especially if you’re glued to a screen for work or entertainment.
Wear sunglasses outdoors
UV rays from the sun can harm your eyes. Wearing UV-protection sunglasses when you’re outside is a smart way to prevent damage.
Book regular eye tests
Even if your sight seems fine, regular eye check-ups help detect any changes or problems early. It’s recommended to get an eye test every two years, or more often if advised.
Related read: How Often Should You Get An Eye Test?
What about not wearing glasses at all?
Some people avoid glasses, thinking their eyes will “adjust” or get stronger without them. But forcing your eyes to work harder can lead to eye strain, headaches, and tiredness. If you’ve been prescribed glasses, wearing them gives your eyes the support they need. It’s not a sign of weakness.
Also, not wearing glasses when you need them could make it harder to read road signs, see faces clearly, or work effectively, especially if your job involves fine detail or screen use.
Do glasses change the shape of your eyes?
No, wearing glasses doesn’t physically change the shape of your eyes. They sit on the outside and simply adjust how light enters. However, some people notice temporary marks or slight impressions from wearing glasses, especially if the frames are tight or heavy. These marks are harmless and go away once the glasses are removed.
So, can wearing glasses make your eyesight worse?
No, glasses won’t make your eyesight worse. They correct vision and help your eyes do their job more comfortably. If your eyesight changes over time, it’s not because of glasses – it’s because your eyes are changing, just like the rest of your body does with age or lifestyle.
Keep your vision in focus
Your eyes deserve proper care, just like any other part of your body. Wearing the right glasses won’t harm your sight – they’ll help you see the world more clearly. Eat well, include key vitamins for eyesight, rest your eyes, and don’t skip those eye exams.
If you’ve been putting off wearing your glasses, now’s the time to give your eyes the support they need.
