Seeing Clearly: How Often Should You Update Your Prescription?

Having clear vision is essential for navigating through our daily lives. Whether it's reading a book, driving a car, or simply enjoying the beauty of the world around us, our eyes play a crucial role in our overall well-being. Clear vision allows us to fully engage with our surroundings and experience life to its fullest.
 

Understanding Refractive Errors

Refractive errors are common vision problems that occur when the shape of the eye prevents light from focusing directly on the retina. The retina is the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye, responsible for transmitting visual signals to the brain. There are different types of refractive errors, including nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia), and astigmatism. These conditions can cause blurry vision, difficulty focusing, eye strain, and headaches.
 

Signs You May Need to Update Your Prescription

Your eyes change over time, and so does your vision. It is not uncommon for your prescription to become outdated and no longer provide you with optimal visual acuity. Here are some signs that may indicate the need for an updated prescription:
 

• Blurry Vision: If you find that your vision is becoming increasingly blurry, even when wearing your current glasses or contact lenses, it may be a sign that your prescription needs to be adjusted. Blurriness can indicate that your eyesight has changed and that your current prescription is no longer providing the clarity you need.
• Eye Strain and Fatigue: If you experience frequent eye strain, fatigue, or headaches, it could be a result of an outdated prescription. When your eyes are constantly working harder to focus, it can lead to strain and discomfort. Updating your prescription can alleviate these symptoms and provide you with clearer, more comfortable vision.
• Squinting: If you find yourself squinting to see clearly, it is a clear indication that your current prescription is not meeting your visual needs. Squinting temporarily changes the shape of your eye, allowing you to see more clearly. However, it is not a long-term solution, and getting an updated prescription is crucial for maintaining good eye health.

How Often Should You Update Your Prescription?

The frequency at which you should update your prescription depends on various factors, including your age, overall eye health, and the stability of your vision. As a general guideline, it is recommended to have a comprehensive eye exam annually, even if you are not experiencing any vision problems. Regular eye exams not only help detect any changes in your vision but also enable your eye care professional to monitor your eye health and identify any potential issues early on.
 

If you have been diagnosed with a refractive error, the American Optometric Association recommends updating your prescription every one to two years, or as directed by your optometrist. However, it is important to note that everyone's eyes are unique, and some individuals may require more frequent prescription updates. Factors such as age, underlying medical conditions, and lifestyle choices can influence how often you should update your prescription.
 

Schedule Your Next Eye Exam with Custom Eyes Today

Seeing clearly is fundamental to our everyday lives, and maintaining optimal vision requires regular care. By paying attention to signs such as blurry vision, eye strain, and squinting, you can recognize when it's time to update your prescription. Consult with your eye doctor to determine the best frequency for updating your prescription based on your individual circumstances.
 

Schedule your next comprehensive eye exam to ensure that you are seeing clearly and maintaining optimal eye health, visit Custom Eyes at our office in Selden, New York. Call (631) 230-6230 to book an appointment today.