I'm an optometry specialist with a keen interest in vision health and the impact of corrective eyewear on the human eye. It’s a common misconception that not wearing glasses can lead to a condition known as "lazy eye", or amblyopia. However, the relationship between glasses and amblyopia is more nuanced than simply not wearing them.

Amblyopia is a developmental vision disorder that occurs when one eye fails to develop normal visual acuity during childhood. It's often linked to an imbalance in the visual input from the two eyes, such as when one eye is significantly more nearsighted or farsighted than the other, or when there is a significant difference in eye alignment (strabismus). In these cases, the brain may favor the input from the stronger eye and neglect the weaker one, leading to reduced vision in the weaker eye.

The role of corrective glasses in this scenario is to provide the necessary optical correction to ensure that both eyes are receiving clear visual input. For a child with an uncorrected refractive error, such as nearsightedness (myopia), the underdeveloped eye may not be able to focus properly, which can lead to amblyopia if not addressed early enough.

However, it's important to note that simply not wearing glasses does not cause amblyopia. The condition is more likely to develop if there is an underlying refractive error or eye misalignment that is not corrected. Wearing glasses can help prevent amblyopia by ensuring that both eyes are working together and developing properly.

As for the concern about glasses with too strong of a prescription causing headaches and fatigue, it's crucial that eyewear is prescribed and fitted correctly. An incorrect prescription can indeed lead to discomfort, but this is not a direct cause of amblyopia. Regular eye exams and updates to prescriptions are essential to ensure that glasses provide the correct level of correction and do not contribute to vision problems.

In summary, while not wearing glasses does not directly cause a lazy eye, it is essential for individuals, especially children, to have their vision checked regularly and to wear the prescribed glasses if they have a refractive error. This helps to maintain balanced visual development and can prevent conditions like amblyopia.

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When a young person who is nearsighted doesn't wear corrective glasses, she runs the risk of her eyes becoming lazy. If the eyes are too weak and they work harder to focus at near they are considered farsighted. ... Also, glasses with too strong of a prescription can cause headaches and fatigue.read more >>