When we are unwell our first reaction is usually to call a doctor. When our teeth are painful, we book an appointment with the dentist. However, when it comes to our vision, many people tend to delay or completely overlook booking an eye test.
As a general rule you should have an eye test at least once every two years. That said, there are certain signs and symptoms that may indicate you need an eye test much sooner.
One of the clearest signs you may need an eye test is difficulty reading a book, using your phone or reading road signs in the distance.
Below are some common signs to look out for that suggest it may be time to book an eye test with your optician:
1. Screwing Your Eyes
Screwing your eyes up can temporarily reduce blur at the back of the eye giving slightly clearer vision. If you find yourself doing this often, it may be a sign of short-sightedness or long-sightedness and an indication that you need an eye test.
2. Blurry Vision
If reading a book, newspaper or magazine has become fuzzy, you may be developing long-sightedness or presbyopia. Difficulty seeing objects at a distance can indicate short-sightedness. If both near and distance vision are affected, this could be due to astigmatism, which involves the curvature of the cornea or lens.
3. Difficulty Seeing at Night
Struggling to see clearly at night or experiencing glare from headlights may be a sign that you need glasses. Poor night vision can also be associated with cataracts where the lens inside the eye becomes cloudy.
4. Working with Computers
Spending long periods working on computers or digital screens can lead to eye strain. In some cases, you may benefit from glasses specifically designed for screen use. Digital screens display characters differently to printed text, often requiring the eyes to work harder to maintain focus.
5. Frequent Headaches
Recurring headaches are often linked to vision problems. When the eye muscles have to work harder to focus, this can lead to eye strain, tension and inflammation. Some people who suffer from migraines may also benefit from tinted or photochromic lenses.
6. Double Vision
Experiencing double vision should never be ignored. It can be related to problems with the eye muscles or nerves and may also indicate early cataract formation. An eye test can help identify the cause.
7. Sensitivity to Light
If you notice increased sensitivity to light, it is important to book an eye test. Light sensitivity can be linked to eye infections, inflammation or other underlying eye conditions.
8. Seeing Halos Around Lights
Seeing halos around light sources such as streetlights or car headlights can be a sign of cataracts or raised eye pressure. An eye test can help detect these issues early.
9. Difficulty Adjusting from Dark to Light
If your eyes take longer than usual to adjust when moving from dark environments to bright light this may be due to weakening eye muscles as part of the ageing process. An eye test can determine whether corrective lenses or further investigation is needed.
If you have not had an eye test in the last two years or if you recognise any of the signs above, it is important to book an appointment for a comprehensive eye examination.
We offer professional home eye tests providing thorough eye care without the need to visit a high street optician. Contact us today to book your eye test at a time that suits you.