Ask the Optician

Sit at the back of the class and cannot see the board

On 12 July 2012 by Simon Kay

Question

I sit near the back of the class in school and I can't see the writing on the board. I have to ask the person sat next to me what does it say. I keep getting headache but I don't know if it is linked to this. I have previously had a eye test (about 3-4 years ago) and got given glasses but I stopped wearing them as I was fine after that. I was wondering if I need glasses again? I'm doing GCSE's as well so I need to sort it out over the holiday if I do need glasses.

Answer Written answer:
Qualified optometrist Simon Kay BSc(Hons) MCOptom answers this question.

It very much sounds like you do need glasses, as obviously your vision for distance is not normal. In the last few years you have probably gone shortsighted (myopic) which at first blurs your distance vision. If you are under 19 and in full-time education then your eye test is free through the NHS, and you get help towards the cost of glasses. If you are under 16 you will need to go with a parent or guardian to the eye test appointment.

Optician's Biography

Simon Kay BSc(Hons) MCOptom has been a qualified Optometrist for over 30 years, and has a vast experience of almost all aspects of optometry. He joined Specsavers Opticians in 1993 first in Liverpool and for 15 years as a director of Lancaster and Morecambe. He served on many panels and committees whilst a director, including those responsible for IT design and professional advancement. He was regional chairman of the North West directors of Specsavers for over 12 years and as such was involved in almost all aspects of optometry on a business and professional level. He has been involved on the Local Optical Committee for many years and is currently Vice Chairman in his area.

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