How Often Should I Update My Contact Lens Prescription?

Wearing contact lenses makes life more convenient, but it also means staying on top of your eye health. Because contact rest directly on the surface of your eyes, it’s essential to keep your prescription current to maintain clear vision, prevent discomfort, and safeguard long-term eye health.
 

Signs You May Need a New Contact Lens Prescription

It’s important to watch for changes in your vision and comfort. Some common signs you might need an updated prescription include:

• Blurry or fluctuating vision

• Frequent headaches or eye strain

• Discomfort or dryness with your lenses

• Needing to squint to see clearly

• Difficulty seeing well at night

If you notice any of these issues, it’s a good idea to schedule an exam sooner rather than later.
 

The Importance of Annual Contact Lens Exams

Even if your vision feels the same, the American Optometric Association recommends scheduling annual contact lens exams. During these exams, your optometrist checks several important factors. First is your overall eye health, ensuring that the cornea and surrounding tissues remain healthy and free of complications. Lens fit is also assessed to confirm that your contacts sit properly on your eyes and do not cause irritation or discomfort.

Another key factor is oxygen flow to the eye. Because contact lenses cover the cornea, it’s important to ensure that your eyes are still receiving enough oxygen for long-term comfort and safety. Tear film quality is also evaluated, since dryness or poor tear film stability can affect both comfort and vision clarity.

By keeping up with annual exams, you’ll not only maintain an up-to-date prescription but also protect the long-term health and comfort of your eyes.
 

Exploring New or Specialty Contact Lens Options

Technology in contact lenses continues to advance. During your yearly visit, your optometrist can also recommend new options that may improve your comfort or vision. Some patients benefit from specialty lenses such as:

• Daily disposable lenses for added convenience and hygiene

• Multifocal contact lenses to address presbyopia (age-related near vision changes)

• Toric contact lenses designed for astigmatism

• UV-blocking contact lenses to help protect your eyes from harmful ultraviolet rays while improving comfort and clarity

By updating your prescription regularly, you can also explore whether newer lens technology might be right for you.
 

Schedule Your Contact Lens Exam Today

Updating your contact lens prescription is about more than clear vision - it’s about protecting your eye health, ensuring comfort, and keeping up with advancements in lens technology. Most people should have their prescription checked at least once a year, even if they feel their vision hasn’t changed.

If it’s been over a year since your last contact lens exam or if you’ve noticed changes in your vision or comfort, schedule your appointment at City Eye Optometry to explore the best contact lens options available. Visit any of our convenient locations in Bellingham and Brockton in Massachusetts, or Vernon and Middletown in Connecticut. Call (978)-208-2390 to book an appointment today.