Millions of people rely on their contact lenses daily as the most convenient and effective form of vision correction to provide clear, comfortable sight. However, like any medical device, contact lenses need to be updated periodically for best performance and eye health. Knowing when to change your contact lens prescription is important for ensuring that you can continue seeing clearly and avoiding any risks. In this article, we will discuss the signs that indicate the need for a new prescription and factors that may impact your vision.

Signs That Indicate You Need a New Contact Lens Prescription

Blurred Vision

If it starts to become blurry or difficult for you to see clearly, this might mean that your prescription is outdated. This you may note in your day-to-day activities e.g. reading, or driving.

Frequent Headaches

Often headaches for no clinically explained reason among those wearing spectacles are a sign that your eyes have to struggle more than necessary to see.

Eye Fatigue

Constant eye fatigue, particularly after long stints of concentrating on chores and work can mean that your lenses need adjusting.

Difficulty Seeing at Night

If you are having problems driving at night or seeing well in low-light conditions, it may be time for an update to your eyeglass prescription.

Squinting More Often

Having to squint to see better is a telltale sign your vision has shifted. If you squint more often, it is time for an eye exam

Discomfort or Irritation

If your contact lenses are painful, irritating, or burning likely indicates an improperly fitted lens which means unnecessary damage to the part of your eye that can otherwise be avoided.

Halos or Glare

Glare or halos around lights could be a sign that you may need new glasses.

Changes in Your Eye Health

Diabetes, hypertension, or other health conditions can also affect your eyes. To track and account for these changes, routine eye exams are a must.

Factors That Influence Your Vision

There are a few things that determine how often you should renew the contact lens prescription:

• Age: Your vision can change as you get especially after age 40 when presbyopia (difficulty focusing on close objects) is common.
• Lifestyle Changes: If you make changes in your life like a drastic increase in screen time, it may impact your vision and may require an updated prescription.
• Poor health conditions: You have a poor health condition such as chronic ones like diabetes last but one which causes variant problems in the eyes so you need to get an update on your prescription after some time.
• Environmental causes: Excessive light, long-term computer use, or working in a visually demanding environment may affect vision.

What to Do if You Need a New Prescription?

• Maintain Eye Exams: Get a yearly eye exam or more often, if suggested by your eye care professional.
• Speak Concerns: Share any changes in vision or symptoms of concern with your doctor.
• Comply with Recommendations: Follow recommendations from your eye care professional on proper lens care practices, replacement schedules, and follow-up appointments.
• Educate Yourself: Stay in the know about eye health and vision changes, addressing any concerns with a professional

Regular contact lens prescriptions are needed to see, in comfort, and most of all for healthy eyes. By being aware of these red flags and keeping up to date with regular eye exams, you can be sure your contact lenses will continue to give you the level of vision correction that’s best for you. Keep your eyes sharp by being vigilant and active when it comes to noticing changes in the quality of your vision.