Signs It Might Be Time for New Eyeglasses

Finding the right pair of eyeglasses ensures clear vision and overall comfort. But your eyeglass prescription can change over time, sometimes in subtle ways. Beyond simply noticing blurry vision, several warning signs may indicate it's time for new eyeglasses. It’s important to recognize these signs early to maintain clear, strain-free vision.
Frequent Headaches or Eyestrain
The eyes may be working overtime to adjust to lenses that no longer meet your current vision needs, leading to discomfort. If this becomes a regular occurrence, it’s time to schedule an eye exam to evaluate your prescription.
Difficulty Focusing On Close-up Tasks
Many people today spend hours working on computers or reading fine print, whether at work or for personal tasks. Difficulty focusing on close-up tasks such as reading, typing, or looking at a phone can signal a need for a prescription adjustment. The inability to comfortably focus on objects at arm’s length are often a clear indicator that your glasses are no longer optimized for these daily activities.
Increased Sensitivity to Light
Also known as photophobia, this condition often leads to discomfort in bright settings or when transitioning between light and dark environments. If such sensitivity begins to disrupt your daily activities, it may be time to consult with your eye care professional for a thorough evaluation of your lenses and eye health.
Double Vision or Halos Around Lights
Seeing double or noticing halos around lights, particularly at night, can be both disorienting and dangerous. These visual disturbances could indicate that your current prescription isn’t addressing all aspects of your vision or that underlying eye health issues have emerged. Even small adjustments to your prescription can help reduce these issues and provide clearer, sharper vision.
Difficulty Driving at Night
Nighttime driving can become difficult when your eyesight no longer accommodates low-light conditions. You may need to reevaluate your prescription if you have trouble focusing on road signs in low light or if you have more trouble with glare from oncoming headlights. Updated glasses designed for nighttime conditions can improve safety and comfort while driving.
Eye Fatigue or Dry Eyes
Your eyes may work harder to adjust if the prescription is too strong or too weak, causing irritation and even leading to dry eyes. Regular strain or discomfort while wearing glasses might point to outdated lenses that don’t correct your vision as well as they once did.
Squinting More Often
Frequent squinting is a common way the eyes try to compensate for poor vision. If squinting helps bring objects into focus, it may indicate that your current prescription is too weak or outdated. Over time, this extra effort can cause strain and discomfort.
Glasses No Longer Feel Comfortable
Eyeglasses that used to feel natural may begin to feel heavy, off-balance, or cause pressure around the eyes. This discomfort could be due to an outdated prescription causing eye strain or an ill-fitting frame. Ensuring the prescription and frame fit are correct can enhance comfort and visual clarity.
Struggling with Peripheral Vision
If objects outside your direct line of sight seem less clear or distorted, your prescription may need an update. This issue can particularly affect driving or walking in busy areas where strong peripheral vision is essential. An updated prescription can restore sharper and more reliable side vision.
At Optometric Associates of Southern Maine, we understand the importance of having the right prescription for clear and comfortable vision. If you’ve noticed any of these signs, don't wait—schedule a test today and schedule an eye exam to keep your vision sharp and strain-free.









