Optometrists and ophthalmologists are commonly confused, which is understandable. If you Google “eye doctor near me,” the results will likely be a mix of results for optometrists and ophthalmologists, so how do you know which one to see? Both types of eye doctors specialize in eyesight and the overall health of your eyes. However, one type of eye doctor may be better suited for specific situations.

The main difference is that while both optometrists and ophthalmologists perform vision screenings, only ophthalmologists are trained to perform comprehensive eye examinations. Comprehensive exams involve dilating the eyes, and are crucial for detecting more serious eye diseases like glaucoma, cataracts, macular degeneration, and diabetic retinopathy. (more…)

Beginning in the early to mid-40s, most of us start to have problems seeing clearly at close distances, particularly when reading or working on the computer. This is because our eyes and vision change over time, just like our bodies do. Over time, the lens in your eye becomes less flexible, which makes it harder for your eyes to focus on objects close up. This condition is called presbyopia, and it’s is a natural part of the aging process of the eye.

Presbyopia is not a disease, it cannot be prevented, and it is not the same as farsightedness (even though the symptom of not seeing well close up is similar). However, you can correct your close up vision with eyeglasses. In fact, all those over-the-counter drugstore glasses that you see everywhere are designed especially for presbyopia.

Constructed from magnifying lenses set into eyeglass frames, these drugstore glasses, also known as “readers,” are cheap and popular options for people who need help reading or seeing things close-up. The question most commonly asked when it comes to readers is, “Do cheap eyeglasses damage your vision?” Or, “Is it safer for my long-term vision to use prescription glasses instead of readers?” What’s the difference between the two eyeglass options? (more…)