Do You Need New Glasses Every Year?

If you wear eyeglasses, you know that you need to update the prescription regularly. If your vision has changed, your current glasses will not correct your sight effectively. Therefore, you will need to update your prescription to allow you to see more clearly. During the appointment, the optometrist will examine your eyes for vision changes.

While some people require new lens prescriptions annually, others can go two or three years without an update. It helps to know the signs that your prescription needs updating so you can go for new glasses.

Eyeglasses Prescriptions

Do you have problems seeing clearly? Have you noticed changes in your ability to see distances, read, or work on the computer? If so, you may have a refractive error and require a prescription for eyeglasses. If you wear glasses and experience the same issues, it may be time to update your prescription.

Most eyeglass prescriptions are valid for one to two years. It usually depends on the optometrist. Once the prescription expires, you need to get a new one. The optometrist will check your eyes to determine the new prescription.

Comprehensive Eye Exams

People need to get regular comprehensive eye exams, whether they wear glasses or need vision correction. Most doctors recommend exams every two years for people over 18 and annually for those over 65. For eyeglass wearers, the eye doctor may recommend more frequent exams.

How frequently your eyes are changing will determine how often you should schedule your exams. If your current prescription is no longer working, you will require a new one. This is regardless of whether you are due for your next eye exam.

Signs That You Need New Glasses

Some signs can indicate that you need new glasses. If you have blurry vision or squint when reading, you may need an updated prescription. Other signs are:

• Eye fatigue

• Frequent headaches

• Failing to see objects up close

• If your current glasses get scratches or damage

If your current prescription is no longer valid, you need to visit an optometrist to get a new one.

Sudden Changes in Vision

If you experience a sudden or dramatic change in your vision, you need to visit your doctor immediately. Sudden visual changes can result in serious eye conditions that require specialized treatment.

Apart from checking for changes in your prescription, an optometrist can refer you to a specialist where necessary.

Taking Care of Your Glasses

Taking good care of your eyeglasses will help ensure that they last long. Use a special soft cloth to wipe the lenses. It will help prevent scratches. You should also avoid using paper towels, bleach, ammonia, vinegar, and other cleaning products.

Use warm water and a small amount of dishwashing detergent. Use a hard-shell case to carry your glasses and keep the lens facing up when you put them down to prevent scratching.

Taking good care of your eyeglasses will keep them working effectively for longer. Eyeglass prescriptions have an expiration date so you get your eyes checked regularly. Regular checkups will help ensure that your prescription is up to date and help improve your sight.

For more on whether you need new glasses every year, call Blue Hills Eye Associates at  (781) 794-2200 to reach our office in Braintree, Massachusetts.