After Effects of Lens Distortion

The after-effects of wearing distorted lenses is usually insignificant, but you should keep several things in mind if you wear the incorrect prescription lenses. If you look through distorted lenses for too long, your eyes may become tired or you may develop other problems. The after effects of eye strain from lens distortion mimic other eye problems, so check with your eye doctor if you have concerns or problems.

Significance

• Eyeglass prescriptions are just that: prescriptions. Lenses are individually prescribed and are meant to be used by just one person. Just like prescription medications, lenses are not meant to be shared. You might be able to see out of someone else's glasses, but odds are that the lenses are not going to be the exact strength you need to see properly, and if you wear the wrong prescription, you may develop temporary problems.

Blurry Vision

• If you have ever looked through a microscope or telescope and then tried to look across the room or read, you have experienced the blurriness of lens distortion. The amount of time it takes you to refocus depends on the amount of lens magnification and your individual tolerance.

Eye Strain

• Eye strain, or "tired eyes" is a common symptom that results after wearing distorted lenses. Oklahoma State University Environmental Health and Safety Office notes that symptoms of eye strain includes headaches, sore, burning, itchy, dry or tired eyes, blurred or double vision and photophobia, or sensitivity to light.

Warning

• Lens distortion after-effects usually go away in a short period of time. Initial fuzzy vision usually clears up within minutes, but headaches can linger for a few hours. While there are no long-term after-effects from wearing someone else's glasses or the wrong lenses, you should never wear another person's contact lenses. Bacterial and viral infections are easily transmitted by sharing lenses. Contacts are individually designed to fit the shape of your cornea, and wearing the wrong size lens can result in serious eye damage. Check with your eye care practitioner if you have concerns about lens distortion after-effects.