Whether it's OK to go without glasses depends on why you need them in the first place.
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For some people, yes, it's okay, but for others, no. It largely depends on the severity of your vision impairment and the activities you plan to undertake. If your prescription is mild and you're only wearing glasses for specific tasks like reading or driving, you might be fine without them in other situations.
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However, if you have a significant vision impairment and require glasses for most activities, going without them can lead to:
- Eyestrain
- Headaches
- Blurry vision
- Difficulty focusing
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The reference suggests that not wearing your glasses will strain your eyes and tire them out. While this is true, it won't permanently damage your vision or cause eye disease. Your eyes are working harder to compensate for the lack of correction.
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When is it generally okay to go without glasses?
- Mild prescription: If you only need glasses for specific close-up or distance activities, short periods without them are usually fine.
- Relaxing at home: If your prescription is mostly for detail work, relaxing at home and not engaging in visually demanding tasks might be acceptable.
- Short walks in familiar environments: If you know your surroundings well and have a mild prescription, going without glasses for a brief walk might be okay.
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When is it NOT okay to go without glasses?
- Driving: Never drive without your glasses if they are required for safe vision. This is extremely dangerous and potentially illegal.
- Operating machinery: Similar to driving, operating machinery requires clear vision.
- Reading or close work: If you need glasses for reading, you'll likely experience strain and discomfort if you try to do it without them.
- Activities requiring sharp vision: Anything that requires accurate distance or close-up vision, like watching a movie, playing sports, or giving a presentation.
Ultimately, the best course of action is to consult with your eye doctor. They can assess your specific vision needs and advise you on when it is appropriate to go without your glasses.