Signs You May Need Glasses
Eyesight is one of your most important senses. It helps you maintain independence, complete work, and do other activities. However, many people need glasses to ensure the best possible eyesight. If you suspect you need glasses but aren’t sure, review these common signs.
Blurred Vision
Blurred vision may be the first sign you notice. This can be poor distance vision (nearsightedness) or farsightedness. Children often experience blurred vision during school or while reading and doing homework. Adults may notice blurred vision while driving, reading, or doing computer work. Ask yourself when and where you have the most trouble seeing and report these changes to your eye doctor.
Headaches
Many people who need glasses experience headaches because their eyes hurt when reading, sewing, or even buttoning and zipping clothing. Headaches begin as mild annoyances, but untreated, they can compromise your work and leisure time. Be vigilant about headaches that occur between the eyes, or headaches that are not confined to one area. If your child has frequent headaches, watch to see if he or she frequently rubs eyes or squints.
Eye Strain and Fatigue
You used to love to read, but now you’re exhausted after a few pages. You don’t watch your favorite team play football as often because all those bright colors and blurry yard lines strain your eyes. If regular activities make you unusually tired, it may be time for glasses. Additionally, take note if you misread or skip lines of information, or if you consistently mistake one letter for another (e.g., M for N).
Compromised Visual Acuity
People who need glasses may see “halos” around light or have difficulty with light adjustments. If you notice that you turn on more lights than usual or see shadows on books or screens, tell your eye doctor. Also, be sure to report if you’ve had difficulty driving at night. Your eye doctor may fit you for glasses right away because this can be a dangerous symptom of vision problems.
Poor Performance at Work or School
Even if you aren’t having the above problems, poor performance at work or school could indicate a need for glasses. Pay particular attention to evaluations of your computer-based work or any work involving spreadsheets, charts, and graphs. Negative feedback could be because of visual problems. Parents, watch your children’s grades. If they are slipping, especially in a former favorite subject, consult an eye doctor. School vision screenings can pick up possible issues, but they may not identify the root of the problem.
New Mannerisms
Sometimes, people who need glasses develop coping mechanisms they don’t typically notice. For instance, they may blink frequently to refocus if their eyes are tired. They may hold books or papers very close or far away from their faces or lean over desks or tables to do work. As noted, people with vision problems commonly squint. If you notice any of these developments, consult with your eye doctor about getting glasses.
If you are experiencing any of these signs, contact the professionals at Heritage Eye Center to schedule an appointment.