How to Know When It’s Time to Update Your Eyeglass Prescription

If you wear glasses, keeping your prescription current is essential to maintaining clear vision and avoiding unnecessary discomfort. But how do you know when it’s time to update your eyeglass prescription? Let’s explore the common signs and symptoms, and why annual comprehensive eye exams are a crucial part of your eye health routine.

Signs You May Need a New Eyeglass Prescription

Your vision can change subtly over time, which means you might not immediately notice that your glasses are no longer doing their job. Here are some of the most common indicators:

• Blurry Vision: If objects that were once sharp now appear fuzzy, especially when reading or driving, it may be time to reevaluate your prescription.

• Frequent Headaches: Uncorrected vision changes can cause eye strain, which often leads to headaches, particularly after extended periods of screen time or reading.

• Eye Fatigue: Tired, aching eyes (especially after working on a computer or focusing on tasks) are often a sign that your current lenses aren’t providing the clarity your eyes need.

• Squinting: You may find yourself squinting more than usual in an attempt to bring objects into focus. While squinting can offer temporary clarity, it’s not a long-term solution.

• Double Vision or Difficulty Focusing: Trouble focusing, experiencing double vision, or feeling like your eyes aren’t “working together” properly could all indicate the need for updated lenses.

• Changes in Night Vision: If you notice increased glare, halos around lights, or difficulty seeing at night, your prescription might be outdated.

The Importance of Annual Comprehensive Eye Exams

Even if you feel like your vision hasn’t changed, it’s important to schedule a comprehensive eye exam every year. These exams do more than just check your prescription, they allow your optometrist to detect early signs of eye diseases, monitor existing conditions, and evaluate your overall visual health.

Children, adults, and seniors all benefit from annual eye exams, especially as risk factors for conditions like glaucoma, cataracts, and macular degeneration increase with age.

Enhancing Your Vision and Comfort

When it’s time to update your eyeglass prescription, it’s also the perfect opportunity to explore the latest advancements in lens technology and eyewear design. Today’s glasses do more than correct vision - they can enhance comfort, reduce eye strain, and elevate your personal style. We offer a variety of benefits tailored to your lifestyle. You might consider:

• Blue Light Protection: Ideal for those who spend hours on digital devices, these lenses help reduce digital eye strain and improve sleep quality.

• Progressive Lenses: These no-line multifocal lenses provide clear vision at all distances (near, intermediate, and far) without the need to switch between different pairs.

• Photochromic Lenses: Also known as transition lenses, these darken in sunlight and return to clear indoors, offering seamless protection from UV rays.

• Anti-Reflective Coatings: These reduce glare from screens and headlights, enhancing both comfort and visual clarity, especially during night driving.

Ready to Upgrade Your Eyewear?

Keeping your eyeglass prescription up to date is essential for maintaining clear vision, reducing eye strain, and supporting long-term eye health. If you're noticing any changes in your vision or it’s been over a year since your last eye exam, it’s time to take action. Updating your prescription also gives you the opportunity to take advantage of advanced lens technologies and find frames that match your lifestyle and personality.

Schedule your comprehensive eye exam at Eye Care Associates in San Bernardino and keep your vision clear and comfortable year-round. Visit our office in San Bernardino, California, or call (909) 316-2100 to book an appointment today.