Vision plays a critical role in our daily lives, from reading and driving to recognizing faces and enjoying the beauty around us. But, many people often overlook the importance of regular eye exams and updating their prescriptions. 10 signs it’s time to update your prescription are:
- Old glasses are causing headaches
- Difficulty reading small print
- Eye fatigue
- Light sensitivity
- Halos around lights
- Difficulty seeing at night
- Frequent eye rubbing
- The need to hold things closer to your eyes
- Difficulty focusing
- Changes in your peripheral vision
Neglecting your eye health can lead to various issues, affecting your quality of life and overall well-being. The information below will help you understand the signs indicating it might be time to update your prescription and why it is crucial to stay proactive about your vision care.
Common Signs of Vision Changes
Before discussing the detailed signs, let’s examine some common indicators that your vision might be changing. These signs can range from subtle to more prominent, and being aware of them can help you take timely action.
Blurred Vision
Blurring vision is one of the most noticeable signs that your prescription needs updating. If you find it difficult to focus on objects or if things appear fuzzy, it’s a clear indication that your current glasses or contact lenses are no longer sufficient.
Frequent Headaches
Headaches, especially after reading or using a computer, can indicate that your eyes are working too hard to compensate for vision changes.
Squinting
Frequently squinting to see clearer indicates that your prescription may need to be stronger. Squinting reduces the amount of light entering your eyes, which can temporarily improve focus.
10 Signs You May Need an Updated Prescription
Here’s a closer look at the signs indicating it’s time for a new prescription.
1. Old Glasses Causing Headaches
Wearing old glasses with an outdated prescription is like asking your eyes to run a marathon without proper training. When your prescription isn’t accurate, your eyes have to work extra hard to focus, leading to muscle strain and potentially headaches.
Researchers have also found that a specific type of migraine called ametropia is common in those with uncorrected refractive errors. So, updating your prescription helps ensure your glasses provide an accurate correction level, minimizing the chances of experiencing migraines or persistent headaches.
2. Difficulty Reading Small Print
If you struggle to read small print, such as text on your phone or in books, it could be a sign of presbyopia, a common age-related condition. Updating your prescription can help you see clearly without straining your eyes.
3. Eye Fatigue
Are you tired or experiencing discomfort after prolonged reading or screen time? This could be due to an outdated prescription. Eye fatigue can often occur when your eyes work harder than usual to focus.
4. Light Sensitivity
Increased sensitivity to light, or photophobia, can indicate that your prescription needs updating. An uncorrected—or undercorrected—refractive error like astigmatism can increase the risk of photophobia.
5. Halos Around Lights
Seeing halos or rings around lights, especially at night, can be a symptom of vision changes. This often indicates that your prescription lenses are insufficient and should be adjusted. These halos could also be a result of cataracts or glaucoma. So, seeing your eye doctor if you start seeing halos is essential.
6. Difficulty Seeing at Night
Night vision problems, such as struggling to see while driving at night, can indicate an outdated prescription. Ensuring your glasses or contacts are current can improve your night vision.
7. Frequent Eye Rubbing
Frequently rubbing your eyes can be a response to eye strain or discomfort caused by an outdated prescription. If you notice this habit, it’s time for an eye exam.
8. Needing to Hold Objects Closer or Farther Away
Adjusting the distance at which you hold objects to see them clearly indicates that your prescription may need updating, as several refractive errors can cause these vision changes. Whether it’s holding your phone closer or farther, this adjustment indicates a change in your vision.
9. Difficulty Focusing
If you find it hard to maintain focus on objects, whether near or far, it’s a clear sign that your prescription could be off. This difficulty can affect your productivity and overall comfort.
10. Changes in Peripheral Vision
Noticing changes in your peripheral vision, such as reduced side vision or blind spots, can indicate that your prescription needs updating. It’s crucial to address these changes promptly as they can also indicate a more severe condition like glaucoma or retinal detachment.
The Importance of Regular Eye Exams
Eye exams are more than a routine check-up—they are vital to maintaining your health. An outdated prescription can strain your eyes, cause headaches, and even impact your ability to perform everyday tasks.
Regular eye exams help detect vision changes early and ensure your prescription is always current. Remember, your eyes are your windows to the world, and keeping them in top condition should be a priority.
Call today or visit us at Total Vision Novato. One of our experienced eye doctors can examine your eyes and eyeglasses to ensure that your prescription is up to date and your eyes are healthy.
