Do you know when you need reading glasses? Presbyopia will occur around age 40 for most people. However, that doesn’t necessarily mean it can’t happen earlier or later for different people. Blurred vision is one of the first symptoms indicating a need for glasses, but here are some other signs you may be overlooking. Do you know the signs that you need reading glasses? There are signs that you can make a referral.
1. Dozing in front of your computer
Your eye muscles are working at maximum capacity when you’re concentrating on a close or complex task, including reading or working on the computer. Since this is not a natural position for the eyes, they can become fatigued, causing drowsiness. If you need glasses, these muscles compensate by working harder to get a clear picture. If glasses aren’t enough, blink more often, or move your computer away. This will give your eyes a break.
2. Never having enough light to read
Your desk lamp doesn’t have enough light, and you need to turn on another one or even a ceiling light. If you are always short of light, regardless of the room or type of lighting, this could be a sign that you need glasses.
Reducing light is one of the things that can protect your eyes and could save your vision! According to studies, people over the age of 60 need, on average, three times as much light as those in their 20s. This situation will become more pronounced over time, which is perfectly normal.
3. Having your arms work while reading
The way you hold a book could be a big indicator of your need for glasses. If you have nearsightedness (distant objects are blurred), you will be holding your book within 12 inches of your face. If you have presbyopia (you can’t see well up close), you may be holding your book arm’s length away from your eyes. Remember this rule: if something is blurry at 35cm (14″) from your eyes, you may need corrective lenses. For the health of your eyes, it’s also important to choose the right sunglasses.
4. Having frequent headaches
Eye strain increases the risk of headaches or amplifies recurring headaches. If the pain is directly behind your eyes, it could be hyperopia (you see far) or astigmatism (objects become blurred at certain angles due to the shape of your cornea).
Both of these problems indicate a need for glasses, and wearing glasses may help. Be sure to take plenty of breaks during demanding eye work. All doctors suggest following the 20-20-20 rule, which is to look at something more than 20 feet (6m) away for 20 seconds every 20 minutes.
5. Never eat kale (and other leafy greens)
By continuing to believe that only carrots are good for your eyesight, you may be missing out on the benefits of other leafy greens, like kale. They contain lutein and zeaxanthin, antioxidants that keep the lens clear, lowering the risk of cataracts and the likelihood of wearing glasses. One cup of kale can contain up to 26.5mg of lutein and zeaxanthin, depending on how it is prepared. A serving of carrots offers less than 1mg. Enjoy its many benefits by trying our best kale recipes.
6. Seeing halos
Light can become blurry when your eyes don’t focus light rays on the retina. Circles of light appear around light sources, whether a light bulb or car headlights. This could indicate a need for glasses. However, halos are also a common symptom of cataracts, especially when vision is blurry. If you see halos, see a doctor.
7. Being over 40
After age 40, you’ll develop one or more of the symptoms described above because you’ll begin to experience presbyopia. With presbyopia, the eyes gradually lose their ability to see close objects clearly (this is not hyperopia). Symptoms appear in your 40s and worsen until your 60s. But a simple solution to this natural aging process is reading glasses.
Looking for help?
With years of experience, Summerhill Optometry is committed to providing a comprehensive range of eye care services for patients of all ages, including eye exams, emergency eye care, laser surgery, contact lens fitting and exams, and more.
Based in Summerhill, Toronto, we bring you the latest diagnostic technologies and an extensive range of carefully selected high-end eyeglasses and sunglasses from eyewear leaders. We aim to deliver first-class services and eyewear. So, what are you waiting for? Call them now or visit their website and get a headstart because you know you need to have blurry vision to go to an optician.
