If people need glasses, there are usually warning signs that tell them it's time for an eye exam. These warning signs should be acknowledged in order that vision does not deteriorate even further. The American Optometric Association recommends that children have their first eye exam by age one. They should have one again by the time they turn three years old. The Vision Council of America recommends that everyone undergo an eye exam on an annual basis.
Signs that a person needs glasses include not seeing well at night and having blurry vision. If a person sees floating spots, has difficulty reading, or suffers from tired eyes, these are other warning signs that glasses are needed. People who are unable to see well in daylight or who suffer from frequent headaches, should consider taking a trip to an eye doctor as well. Children who sit too close to the television, hold objects extremely close to the eyes, or experience difficulty seeing the blackboard at school may also need glasses.
People who need glasses fall into one of several categories. For example, some people who need glasses may be nearsighted. This means they see well up close but have problems seeing objects farther away. Those with this particular eye problem may squint or be unable to see the television clearly. They may also have trouble reading the words on signs.
Those who are farsighted experience difficulties seeing objects close by. On the other hand, they can easily see objects situated further away. Farsightedness often causes people to blink excessively.
Astigmatism is a problem with the shape of the eye. People with astigmatism cannot see objects far away or nearby. Such a condition may often cause eyes to water or become fatigued. It may also be difficult for a person to work with computers.
Amblyopia means that a person suffers from a lazy eye. This means that one eye transfers an unclear picture to the brain. As a result, the brain ignores the image, causing one eye to see better than the other. Those with amblyopia may often need to wear an eye patch in order to strengthen the weaker eye.
In order to determine whether a person needs corrective lenses, the eye doctor examines the eyes using a variety of tests. If he determines that the patient needs glasses, he will then prescribe lenses that will enable the patient to see clearly. Some people will only be required to wear glasses to watch television or read, while others are required to wear glasses all the time. Those who do not wish to wear eye glasses have the option of using contact lenses.