Worsening eyesight at 45, should I return to the optician?

[KittyFanesParasol]

Last year I noticed that I was struggling to read smaller print. I went to the opticians and she changed my prescription (I needed a fairly significant increase) and also referred me to an ophthalmologist due to deterioration, though she things is just age related change. I'm 45. I'm still waiting for a date.

Since last week I've noticed that I'm struggling with reading my phone as well as print. I've had headaches and I feel like my eyes are strained - today at work I kept having to walk away to have a break.

I'm going to go back to the opticians I think and ask for their advice. Not really sure what I'm asking. I'm worried I'm overthinking this and imagining it but I was actually scared last week when i clicked on BBC news and struggled to focus. I panicked slightly.

It's probably just your age and needing reading glasses. But the optician should be able to tell you more.

When I hit 47 I started having to move things closer and by 49 (I think) I had been prescribed varifocals. These have three distances. I thought they would be hard to get used to but it was a breeze. Optician said it’s common in late 40s.

I don't think you're overthinking it. If your vision has changed again and you're getting headaches, I'd definitely go back to the optician rather than waiting for the hospital appointment. It's always better to get it checked if something feels different.