Noticing changes in your vision can be a common experience, often occurring gradually. Understanding these shifts is a proactive step toward maintaining eye health. Being aware of these changes allows you to identify potential issues early and seek appropriate care.
Common Indicators of Vision Changes
Difficulty reading small print, especially on close objects like menus or phone screens, is a frequent sign of vision changes. You might find yourself holding reading materials further away to make the words clearer. Conversely, struggling to see distant objects, such as street signs or television, also indicates a need for correction. Squinting often accompanies these difficulties, as your eyes attempt to bring objects into better focus.
Frequent headaches or eye strain, particularly after extended reading or screen time, can signal your eyes are working too hard. This may manifest as tired, sore, or dry eyes, sometimes causing neck and shoulder discomfort. Blurry vision at specific distances, whether near or far, is a direct indicator that your eyes are not focusing light correctly on the retina. This blurriness can be consistent or might fluctuate.
Halos around lights at night or difficulty with night driving, like struggling to see road markings, are also common symptoms. This can be due to the pupil dilating more in low light, which can exacerbate existing vision problems. If you notice double vision, even if temporary or in one eye, it warrants immediate attention from an eye care professional, as it can be a sign of more serious underlying conditions.
Underlying Reasons for Vision Impairment
Vision changes often stem from refractive errors, where the eye does not focus light precisely on the retina. Myopia, or nearsightedness, occurs when the eyeball is slightly too long or the cornea is too steeply curved, causing light to focus in front of the retina. This results in distant objects appearing blurry, while close-up vision remains clear.
Conversely, hyperopia, or farsightedness, happens when the eyeball is too short or the cornea is not curved enough, causing light to focus behind the retina. Individuals with hyperopia experience blurry vision for nearby objects, though it can also affect distance vision. Astigmatism is another common refractive error, characterized by an irregularly shaped cornea or lens, which causes light to scatter unevenly as it enters the eye. This can lead to blurry or distorted vision at all distances and may occur alongside myopia or hyperopia.
Presbyopia is another common reason for vision changes, particularly with age. This condition begins in the early to mid-40s and involves the gradual hardening and loss of flexibility of the eye’s natural lens. As the lens becomes less elastic, it struggles to change shape sufficiently to focus on close objects, making reading and other near tasks challenging. These changes are a natural part of the aging process and are not considered diseases.
Consulting an Eye Care Professional
If you recognize any described symptoms, consulting an eye care professional is the next step. An optometrist or ophthalmologist can accurately diagnose the cause of your vision changes through a comprehensive eye exam. Regular eye exams are important even if you believe your vision is clear, as many eye conditions develop without obvious symptoms in their early stages.
During an eye exam, the doctor performs several tests, including a visual acuity test using an eye chart to assess how clearly you see at various distances. A refraction test helps determine the precise prescription needed for corrective lenses by having you look through a series of lenses. The doctor will also examine the overall health of your eyes, checking for conditions like glaucoma or cataracts. Early detection and correction of vision problems can prevent discomfort and potential worsening of vision, supporting your overall well-being.