Eyes don't seem to tolerate any prescription

[lucky10382]

I started getting headaches last April when my optometrist reduced the prescription on my contacts by 1 step. I started getting headaches with near vision activities(reading, computer, etc.). The Dr. then checked my eyes again and determined that I was over-corrected. Over the next several months he reduced the prescription and I also switched out of contacts and went back to glasses. Each time they reduced the prescription my headaches occurred more frequently and then they started to occur when watching TV and other distance activities where I am focusing on an object for a decent amount of time. I am now to the point where I can't watch TV, read, get on the computer or do any other activity that requires focusing. If I continue watching TV with the headache it increases in intensity until I have headaches for days at a time. I went to a new optometrist and he said that I have computer vision syndrome, but then after trying the exercises and using computer glasses my headaches did not improve. He also said the headaches that last for days is not normal.  My optometrist then referred me to a ophthalmologist and the ophthalmologist could not find anything wrong with my eyes. I was frustrated so I wore no prescription of any kind and my headaches mostly went away.. I only used the glasses for maybe an hour a day. When I tried to use the glasses today I was able to tolerate my glasses for much longer periods of time but the headaches were still there. I am tempted to just stop wearing glasses altogether. Is it possible that my eyes are rejecting the prescriptions and can't handle them?

[John C Hagan III, MD, FACS, FAAO]

When ophthalmologist reach the end of their rope and are left without answers and scratching their heads then they usually ask for a neuro-ophthalmology consult.  Consider asking your ophthalmologist for a referral to one I'm sure she/he would be grateful for any additonal insights to your ongoing problem. You can also find a NO near you at www.aao.org

JCH MD

[lucky10382]

Sorry, I put a lot in there. I should have specified that I when I switched from contacts to glasses I no longer wear contacts at all. I have only worn glasses for the last 6 or so months.

[John C Hagan III, MD, FACS, FAAO]

It is often difficult to switch back and forth between glasses and contacts.  You should consider leaving the contacts out for a couple of months and just wear glasses. This elminates the contacts as a source of your problem. Given what you've posted the most likely cause of your problem is your contacts.

JC MD