Finding the Right Eye Glasses for You
I can buy eyeglasses in the drug store or grocery store; why do I need to see an eye doctor?
The eye glasses sold in stores are based on very general and generic needs like magnification to help with reading as your eyes get older. While they may appear to resolve your symptoms, you should still see an eye doctor for two primary and critically important reasons:
- Any change in eyesight including difficulty reading or focusing as you age should be evaluated by an eye doctor; in some cases, there may be other underlying issues which, left undiagnosed, can progress to serious disease and even permanent vision loss.
- Reading glasses offer the same prescription for both eyes. Most people have vision differences in both eyes that require specific corrections. When eyes are not treated individually, vision problems can actually become worse over time and you may also experience problems such as chronic headaches.
How can I tell if my child needs eyeglasses?
Children with vision problems often won't mention problems, which means it's up to you to help spot common symptoms such as:
- sitting very close to a television or computer monitor or holding a book close to their eyes
- using a finger to help maintain focus when reading
- tilting the head, closing one eye or squinting to see better
- rubbing the eyes frequently
- headaches or eyes that feel “tired”
- poor school performance
- avoiding near-vision activities like homework or reading or giving up easily because work is too “hard”
- avoiding far-vision activities like sports
- sensitivity to bright light
- chronic or excessive tearing
My child gets an eye exam in school. Do I still need to take them to the eye doctor?
Yes; an eye exam by an ophthalmologist is far more comprehensive and can help spot many more vision problems than a school exam.
Improve Your Vision Today
During your eye exam, we can determine which eye glasses prescription is right for you. To learn more, schedule a consultation at our office or call us directly at (310) 340-6925.
