If you’re having trouble seeing text clearly, you probably have thought about picking up inexpensive reading glasses at a drugstore. While over-the-counter readers can be useful, the eye care experts at Allens Creek Family Optometry say these products aren’t the best solution for everyone. This Rochester, NY, optometrist office encourages you to get an eye exam to find out if prescription eyeglasses are a better fit.

The variety, convenience, and low cost of drugstore reading glasses make them appealing. However, it’s important to consider the benefits of working with an eye doctor rather than taking a do-it-yourself approach to vision correction:

• The Value of an Eye Exam: Adults should get an eye examination at least every two years, especially if they notice changes in their vision. However, many people opt to buy drugstore glasses to avoid a trip to the eye doctor. While it might help you save time, this decision can have severe consequences. You won’t receive an accurate diagnosis of your eye problem and will miss out on the opportunity for early detection of eye diseases like glaucoma and cataracts.  

• The Precision of Custom Correction: Reading glasses from a store essentially are magnifying glasses available at different power levels, so they’re useful for reading small text. However, if you need to use your readers all the time, you probably have a vision problem that requires a custom prescription. An eye doctor can prescribe corrective lenses that help you see well in a variety of situations, such as while driving or working on a computer. You also will have the right lens for each eye rather than the same power level for both, reducing the risk of strain and headaches.

• The Comfort of a Reliable Fit: When you visit an optometrist, you can select the glasses that work best for your face shape and head size. Their opticians provide adjustments to ensure your eyeglasses will feel comfortable for long-term wear. Since drugstore readers are ready-made, they might slip down your nose or fit too tightly for comfort.

Don’t trust your vision to over-the-counter reading glasses — visit an optometrist for an eye exam. Allens Creek Family Optometry offers comfortable, convenient, and affordable vision care in Rochester, NY, and will help you enjoy optimal eye health. To arrange an eye exam for prescription glasses or contact lenses, call (585) 461-6225. Visit their website for more information about their services and like them on Facebook for eye care tips and news from their office.