Are you wondering if you need glasses? At some point in our lives, we all wonder if our vision needs correction. For others, it may not be obvious until they are driving at night and are unable to make out the road signs or catch themselves squinting at a computer screen.
Vision changes over time, but not all changes are abnormal, which is why you should schedule an eye exam so that you can learn about your updated eye health.
Signs You Might Need Glasses:
- Blurred vision
When your vision is blurred, you might find it difficult to make out letters and objects clearly.
- Double vision
People who have double vision, also called diplopia, see two of the same image—whether horizontal, vertical, or diagonal.
- Trouble seeing at night
- Squinting
- Watery eyes
- Frequent headaches
- Dry eye
These are some common symptoms that indicate that you may need glasses. Any changes in your normal day-to-day routine should be discussed with your local optometrist. A thorough eye exam will reveal what’s going on and how it can be treated.
What You Need to Know About Your Eyeglass Prescription:
Do you ever wonder how an optometrist determines your prescription? In a comprehensive eye exam, multiple tests are performed. The purpose of these tests is to provide you with the best lenses for your vision that will provide clarity and comfort.
Types of Vision Corrections:
- Myopia
Myopia, or nearsightedness, is a vision condition in which objects closer to the eye appear clear, but farther away appear blurry.
- Hyperopia
Hyperopia, or farsightedness, distant objects appear clear, but nearby objects may appear blurry.
- Presbyopia
As we age, our eyes lose their ability to focus on nearby objects. Presbyopia is a condition in which the eyes gradually lose their ability to focus. Generally, presbyopia appears by one’s mid- to late-40s and progressively worsens until about 65.
- Astigmatism
Astigmatism is a common imperfection of the eye’s curvature that causes blurry vision at both farther and nearer distances. In astigmatism, the cornea or lens inside the eye have mismatched curves on the front surface of the eye.
Types of Prescription Lenses:
Prescription lenses are lenses that provide the necessary power to correct your vision. A negative sign (−) with the number indicates nearsightedness. A positive sign (+) means you have farsightedness.
- Single vision lenses
Single vision lenses are designed for addressing a singular vision problem such as nearsightedness, astigmatism, or farsightedness. Most prescription and reading glasses typically contain single vision lenses.
- Progressive lenses
With progressive lenses, you can view various distances without needing to switch between different pairs of glasses. Your eye doctor may recommend progressive lenses if you require assistance with your vision for the majority of the time.
- Bifocal lenses
Bifocal lenses are lenses that contain a correction for distance vision at the center of the lens and a correction for reading at the bottom.
- High-index lenses
These lenses enable individuals with high prescriptions to be able to wear larger frames without compromising vision and aesthetics. You can enjoy thinner and lighter lenses while maintaining the quality vision.
How to Read Your Eyeglass Prescription:
- OD, OS, OU
“OD” and “OS” are shortened forms for oculus dexter and oculus sinister, representing the right and left eyes in Latin. The column labeled “OU” may also be found in your eyeglass prescription. This is the shortened form of the Latin expression oculus uterque, translating to “both eyes.”
- SPH (Sphere)
Your spherical power value shows the strength of the lens prescribed to correct nearsightedness or farsightedness. If the spherical number precedes with a negative (-), you are nearsighted; if the number precedes with a positive (+) or lacks a plus or minus sign, you are farsighted. A significantly large number that follows a positive (+) or negative (-) sign indicates a more powerful prescription, indicating the need for a higher index lens.
- CYL (Cylinder)
Your CYL value shows the level of lens strength needed for correcting astigmatism. This figure includes symbols of “+” or “-“. If you see “DS,” “SPH,” “spherical,” or “PL” instead of CYL, it indicates the absence of astigmatism.
- ADD (Addition)
The reading addition is the extra adjustment needed for reading. It is possible to use it for creating reading glasses, bifocal glasses, or multifocal glasses. If you opt for the bifocal/progressive lens, make sure the prescription includes the ADD number.
- Prism
Prism is the power utilized to address vision misalignment. It aids in fixing certain specific conditions or eye issues where the focused image needs to be repositioned. Prism abilities will always come with a specific orientation, typically represented by fundamental directions like in, out, up or down.
MYTH OR FACT – Does Wearing Glasses Make Your Vision Worse?
A frequent inquiry that optometrists receive is…”Will using glasses worsen my eyesight?” Although glasses can correct vision issues such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism, they do not lead to worsening eyesight. Wearing your glasses will improve your vision and lessen eye strain.
Most people will ultimately require reading glasses, even if they have always had excellent eyesight. Presbyopia is a typical aspect of getting older, and though you don’t have to fully accept it, you can attempt to find some enjoyment in it!
Your eyes are responsible for your vision; protect your vision, protect your future! Remember, your eyes are your windows to the world. Prioritize eye health today for clear vision tomorrow.
If you would like to book an appointment, shop for eyewear, or find out more information, you can visit our website, give us a call, or send an email.
