Poorer vision or glare from headlights at night: what should you do before driving?

A red eye with a sudden drop in vision may be an emergency, particularly if the loss of vision comes with sensitivity to light. Severe pain with a red eye is another urgent warning sign. See an ophthalmologist that day or go to an emergency department for immediate care. Do not drive with these symptoms.

More gradual difficulties, reduced contrast or glare from headlights can occur with cataracts, among other causes. They do not establish the diagnosis. If vision problems appear, consult an ophthalmologist.

Prepare specific situations to describe: when the difficulty began, the lights or dim conditions that make it noticeable and the activities it affects. Also mention your eye history, illnesses and medicines.

The ophthalmologist assesses distance and near vision, among other things. Have your eyesight checked and wear suitable correction if needed. Glasses you already use do not, on their own, confirm that your vision still meets the demands of driving.

The severity of the difficulty and its effects on activities vary from person to person. Describe any problems with night driving in particular. The ophthalmologist considers the visual difficulty and other associated problems when proposing the next steps in your care.

If vision problems appear between check-ups, consult an ophthalmologist. Gradual difficulties need assessment; the urgent signs described at the start require care that day or at an emergency department, without waiting for a preventive health appointment.