Watery Eyes: What’s Really Going On and How to Fix It
4 August 2026
13:33
The stock answer is every two years, and for most healthy adults with no known eye conditions, that’s about right. But it’s a guideline, not a one-size-fits-all rule – and there are a lot of situations where two years is too long to wait.
If you’re between 18 and 59, have no known eye conditions, no family history of glaucoma, and aren’t diabetic, a comprehensive eye examination every two years is a sensible baseline. That’s enough time for any gradual prescription changes to show up, and often enough to catch early signs of conditions like glaucoma before they cause any noticeable symptoms.
Annually If You’re Over 60
After 60, the risk of age-related conditions – glaucoma, macular degeneration, cataracts – increases meaningfully. Annual tests mean any changes are caught against a recent baseline, not compared to a two-year-old set of results.
Annually (or More) If You Have Diabetes
Diabetes can cause changes to the blood vessels in the retina that often show no symptoms until damage is advanced. A comprehensive eye examination with retinal imaging picks up diabetic retinopathy at a stage where treatment is far more effective. This is separate from the NHS diabetic eye screening programme – both are worth keeping up with.
Annually If There’s Glaucoma in the Family
Glaucoma has a strong genetic component. If a parent or sibling has been diagnosed, your risk is significantly higher, and annual monitoring – including eye pressure checks and OCT scanning – is genuinely important rather than optional.
Every Year for Children
Children’s eyes change quickly, and problems with vision can affect learning, coordination, and confidence without ever being flagged. Every child under 16 in Scotland is entitled to a free annual NHS eye test, and we’d recommend using it. For children already in glasses, or those on a myopia management programme, we may suggest more frequent checks depending on how quickly things are changing.
Sooner If Anything Changes
Don’t wait for your routine appointment if something feels different. Sudden changes in vision, new floaters or flashes, persistent headaches linked to screen use, or any pain or redness warrant a check sooner rather than later, even if your next test isn’t due yet.
The honest summary Two years is fine for most healthy adults under 60. Over 60, diabetic, family history of glaucoma, or a child? Annually. Something feels wrong? Now. None of this should be guesswork – we’ll always tell you when to come back based on what we actually find. |
If you can’t remember when you last had your eyes tested, it’s probably time. Get in touch or call 0141 427 4040 – we’ll fit you in and tell you honestly how often you need to come back.
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Every two years is the standard recommendation for adults aged 18–59 with no known conditions or risk factors.
Yes - the risk of glaucoma, macular degeneration, and cataracts increases with age, making annual tests important for catching changes early.
At least annually, and possibly more often depending on the type and management of your diabetes. Diabetic retinopathy can develop without symptoms, so regular retinal imaging is essential.
Yes - children's eyes change quickly, and every child under 16 in Scotland is entitled to a free annual NHS eye test. We'd recommend using it, especially if they're already in glasses.
Yes - every Scottish resident is entitled to a free NHS eye examination, regardless of age or income.
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