How to know if prism glasses are good for you?

There are many different types of corrective glasses for various eye problems. Most of us are familiar with glasses for near-sightedness and far-sightedness. But there are also a lot of less commonly known glasses that eye doctors prescribe, like prism glasses. These are typically recommended as corrective lenses for people with double vision or diplopia, and a number of other vision problems.

What Is Prism Correction in Eyeglasses?

When a person has diplopia looks at an object, they see two different images of this object at once. That is why diplopia is more commonly known as double vision. This happens when the light hits different parts of the retina in the two eyes. When the light hits the same spot in each retina, there is only one resulting image. 

But even if the light falls on a slightly different part from where it is supposed to, double vision occurs. Prism correction refers to the alignment of these two separate images, causing the person to see just a single image. Thus, prism glasses are a very effective way to correct double vision.

What Do Prism Glasses Look Like?

At first glance, prism glasses don't look any different from regular glasses. But if you look closely, you will see that one side of the lens, where the prism correction has been ground into the lens, is noticeably thicker. This is why when getting fitted for prism glasses, it is recommended that you go with a thicker frame in order to conceal the thickness of the lens.

For first-time users of prism glasses, most eye doctors recommend the use of a temporary Fresnel prism over the regular glasses first before getting actual prism glasses. This is a press-on vinyl sticker that is attached to the surface of the lens, either in the front or the back. It is not meant to be a permanent solution but it helps with the transition and also gives you an idea of how it works.

How Do You Know If Prism Glasses Are Good for You?

Prism glasses might be a good solution if you notice that you have been seeing double. Perhaps images of objects might seem to overlap in your sight when in fact there is only one actual object to see. However, the only certain way to know if prism glasses are good for you is by getting checked by an eye doctor.

Double vision can result from a variety of eye misalignment issues. However, it is important to understand that not all of these issues can be fixed by prism glasses. If your double vision is caused by problems in the eye muscles, like strabismus, myasthenia gravis, or Graves' disease, then prism glasses can help. The same is true for double vision that is caused by neurological issues, like migraines, head injuries, stroke or a brain tumor. Prism glasses can also help correct double vision due to diabetes mellitus or multiple sclerosis, and a few other nerve-related problems.

What Are the Side Effects of Prism Glasses?

Although their ultimate goal is to help you with your vision, prism glasses can cause some side effects, especially during the transition period. It could take several days before you can be completely comfortable wearing your prism glasses. During this period, you might experience eye strain as your vision gradually adjusts.

More rarely, some people might experience nausea and headaches. Oftentimes, these side effects dwindle after the first few days, gradually disappearing over time. But if these symptoms continue to persist, you might have to go back to the eye doctor who can check if you have the correct prescription. It might also be something simpler like having to get the frame adjusted to give you a proper fit.

Best Prism Glasses for Men & Women

1. Jessica Cat Eye Frames

For the ladies, one of our first choices for prism glasses is the gorgeous Jessica cat eye glasses. Made of a nice blend of lightweight TR90 and metal, the frame is substantial enough to conceal any extra thickness of your lens due to the prism correction. The pink and tortoiseshell combination is also very charming, and gives a very feminine and fashion-forward look.

2. Koko Round Frames

Another delightful piece of eyewear we have selected for the ladies is the Koko round frame. The playful blue and orange wood grain pattern stands out for sure, while the round frame beautifully accentuates the eyes. Again, the thicker frame is perfect for holding prism correction lenses, but still light enough for comfort as it is made of acetate.

3. Darnell Rectangle Frames

Now for the men, we like the Darnell rectangular glasses in gray. The subdued color of the frame gives an aura of quiet sophistication but definitely portrays a man who knows his style. The versatile designs make it the perfect eyewear to compliment any outfit, from a business suit to casual beach attire. The acetate and metal frame is durable and well-built, sure to last for a long time.

4. Astronomer Aviator Frames

Our list would not be complete without a classic pair of aviator glasses for the men, which is exactly what the Astronomer is, especially the one in black finish. Sleek and timeless, this pair of eyeglasses is not as thick as the other frames, so it might be reserved only for the lower prescriptions of prism glasses that don't require very thick lenses. This frame would look great on many women as well.

5. Kassidy Oval Frames

Finally, we have the Kassidy oval glasses, which are highly flattering for just about any face shape. It's a unisex frame as well, so both men and women can wear it nicely. It comes in two wonderful color combinations – black/green/red/tortoiseshell, and tortoiseshell/blue – both of which we like equally. The TR90 material is tough enough to hold thicker prism correction frames, but still light and comfortable to wear all day.

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