What kind of vision problems require eyeglasses?
Glasses are optical aids that can help you see clearly when you have refractive errors. A refractive error is when you have blurry vision because the shape of your eye doesn’t focus light properly. Prescription eyeglasses correct vision impairments from refractive errors including:
- Nearsightedness (myopia), difficulty seeing faraway objects
- Farsightedness (hyperopia), difficulty seeing close objects
- Astigmatism, distorted or blurred vision because of an irregularly shaped cornea or lens
- Presbyopia, difficulty with focusing up close, including while reading, which often comes with aging
Though eyeglasses can’t permanently improve or correct these refractive errors, they allow you to see clearly.
What are the advantages of eyeglasses?
Although contact lenses and laser eye surgery are popular options for people with refractive errors, there’s a reason many people still favor glasses. Advantages of eyeglasses over these other options include:
- Just about any adult can comfortably wear glasses
- Glasses are cheaper than contacts or surgery
- Glasses are easier to take care of than contacts
- Glasses don’t directly touch your eyeball, unlike contacts, so there’s minimal risk of infection, irritation, and other side effects
- Glasses are easier to wear than contacts if you have dry or sensitive eyes
- Glasses can protect your eyes from wind, dust, and debris
Thanks to modern technology and design, there’s sure to be a pair of glasses that suits your personality, fashion sense, eye care needs, and lifestyle.
What kinds of eyeglass lenses are available?
When shopping for eyeglasses, you may come across a lot of confusing, unfamiliar terms. Rosemead Eye Center wants to make sure you pick out the best possible pair of glasses for your needs. Common types of lenses include:
- Bifocal: Lenses divided into two sections that help with both distance and close-up vision
- Trifocal: Lenses divided into three sections that help with distance, “arm’s length” (intermediate), and close-up vision
- Progressive: Lenses that correct for distance, intermediate, and close-up vision, but without the visible lines seen on trifocals
- High-index: Designed for people with strong prescriptions, lenses made of a special plastic that can correct vision using less material than regular lenses
- Polarized: Sunglass lenses that reduce glare, making driving easier
- UV protection: A protective coat on lenses to protect you from exposure to harmful radiation from the sun
- Polycarbonate: Durable lenses suitable for active lifestyles
Dr. Lai goes over different frame and lens options with you and makes recommendations based on your needs. For your convenience, Rosemead Eye Center offers a full selection of glasses and optical products.
To schedule an eye exam at Rosemead Eye Center, call or use the online booking tool.
