Is Your Prescription Out of Date? 5 Subtle Signs You Need an Eye Exam Now

Your eyeglass or contact lens prescription isn’t meant to last forever. As your eyes change over time, so do your vision needs. But how do you know when it’s time to update your prescription? While blurry vision is the most obvious clue, there are other, more subtle signs that could signal it’s time for a comprehensive eye exam. Here are five subtle signs your prescription may be out of date.
 

1. Frequent Headaches

If you’ve noticed an uptick in tension headaches (especially around your temples or forehead) it could be due to eyestrain. When your prescription is off, your eyes work overtime to focus properly. This constant strain can trigger regular headaches that may seem unrelated to your vision.
 

2. Eye Fatigue or Tired Eyes

Do your eyes feel tired at the end of the day? Are you rubbing them more often or experiencing a burning sensation after screen time? These symptoms are common when your vision is slightly off and your eyes have to compensate all day long. A refreshed prescription can ease this fatigue.
 

3. Squinting to See Clearly

You may catch yourself squinting more than usual to read road signs, your phone, or even the TV. Squinting briefly improves focus, but if you rely on it regularly, it’s a sign your current glasses or contacts aren’t doing their job.
 

4. Difficulty with Night Vision

Many people with outdated prescriptions struggle to see clearly at night. If headlights from oncoming traffic seem more glaring or you’re having trouble seeing while driving after dark, it may be due to vision changes that require a new prescription.
 

5. More Frequent Accidents or Spills

Bumping into furniture, spilling drinks, or misjudging distances might not just be clumsiness - it could be your depth perception or peripheral vision subtly changing. These shifts can happen gradually and are easy to overlook without a professional eye exam.
 

The Importance of Regular Eye Exams

Regular eye exams are essential not only for updating your prescription but also for protecting your overall eye health. Many serious eye conditions such as glaucoma, macular degeneration, and diabetic retinopathy develop gradually and without noticeable symptoms in their early stages. A comprehensive eye exam can detect these issues before they cause permanent damage, allowing for early intervention and better outcomes.

Additionally, eye exams can reveal signs of systemic health problems like high blood pressure, diabetes, and even certain types of cancer, making them an important part of your preventive healthcare routine.
 

Schedule Your Eye Exam Today

Even if you’re not experiencing obvious vision problems, subtle symptoms can impact your comfort, safety, and quality of life. We’re here to ensure your prescription is up to date and your eyes stay healthy.

If you’re experiencing vision changes, schedule a comprehensive eye exam at Eyes of North Scottsdale to keep your vision sharp and healthy. Visit our office in Scottsdale, Arizona, or call (480) 863-0707 to book an appointment today.