Question
During a recent annual check up, my son's PCP noticed a decline in his vision. I took him to an optometrist and he had 20/25 vision and astigmatisms in both eyes. At this point, is it necessary to get him glasses as the doctor suggested? There is a family history of near-sightedness and astigmatism. Thank you for your help.
Answer
Well, that will be hard to say without knowing how much astigmatism there is (in diopters.) At 20/25 I sort of doubt your son is complaining about his vision and we mainly prescribe based on symptoms. But kids often don't know what normal is and cannot tell you when they are having trouble seeing.
At 20/25, if your son were seated at the back of a large classroom he might not be able to what the teacher is writing on the board, or he might not be able to see details on a presentation from an overhead projector. Or if there is an assembly in the school auditorium, it could be difficult to see. So the need for glasses at this time could be sort of borderline, but using them could enhance your son's experiences at school by making his vision more comfortable and efficient. Depending how much astigmatism and what type, the glasses could also help him be more efficient at the computer.
If you opt against glasses at this time, I recommend you have your son rechecked no longer than six months from now in case it has gotten worse.
