It’s easy to ignore a headache here or a little extra squinting there. Life is busy, and most of us attribute minor eye strain to excessive screen time. But sometimes, those little annoyances are your eyes waving a white flag, signaling an outdated prescription. The good news? A quick eye exam and an updated pair of lenses can make a huge difference in how you feel and function every day.
This blog breaks down how to spot the red flags that your prescription needs a refresh, why timely eye exams matter, and what to expect when you visit us at Bling Eyewear in Cranston and East Providence. If you’ve been putting off that appointment, now’s the time to listen to what your eyes have been trying to tell you.
Signs Your Prescription Needs an Update
There’s no one-size-fits-all rule for how often to update your glasses or contact lens prescription. For some, vision changes are gradual; for others, they happen seemingly overnight. Here are some of the most common signs it’s time to call your optometrist:
1. Frequent Headaches
Unexplained headaches, especially those that occur after reading or computer work, are a significant giveaway. Your eyes may be working overtime to compensate for blurry vision.
2. Squinting More Than Usual
Squinting temporarily sharpens vision — but it’s also a sign you’re not seeing as clearly as you should. If you’re doing this a lot, especially when driving or reading, it’s time to reassess your eyeglass prescription.
3. Blurred or Double Vision
Blurry edges or inconsistent vision (even if it comes and goes) can signal changes in your eye health or refractive error. Double vision is a red flag that should never be ignored.
4. Eye Fatigue or Strain
Burning, itching, or tired-feeling eyes after short periods of reading or screen time may indicate that your prescription isn’t providing enough support.
Trouble Seeing at Night
If night driving has become a chore — with glare from headlights or halos around lights — that’s a major clue your vision correction needs adjusting.
Changes in How You See Distance or Up Close
Whether it’s trouble reading labels or squinting to read street signs, any new difficulty focusing should prompt a check-in with your optometrist.
How Often Should You Update Your Prescription?
For most adults, a comprehensive eye exam every one to two years is standard. But if you notice any of the symptoms above, don’t wait. Vision problems can sneak up quickly, especially if you spend long hours on a computer or have an underlying condition like diabetes or high blood pressure.
Children and teenagers should be checked annually, as their eyes are still developing and their prescription needs can change rapidly. Seniors and those with a history of eye disease may also need more frequent visits. A “wait and see” approach is rarely a good idea when it comes to your sight.
Even if your prescription hasn’t changed significantly, regular exams help detect other issues early, including dry eye, eye infections, and conditions such as glaucoma or macular degeneration.
What Happens During a Prescription Check at Bling Eyewear?
If it’s been a while since your last eye exam, don’t worry — the process is quick, painless, and incredibly informative. During your visit, our eye doctor will:
- Measure your visual acuity and compare it to your current prescription.
- Use advanced technology to assess the overall health of your eyes.
- Check for signs of eye strain or changes in how your eyes focus and work together.
- Answer any questions you have about eyeglasses, contacts, or lifestyle-related vision issues.
You’ll walk out knowing exactly where your vision stands — and if you need a new prescription, we’ll help you choose eyewear that fits your life and your style.
Prescription Updates and Personalized Care in Cranston and East Providence, RI
At Bling Eyewear, we don’t just check your eyes — we make sure your prescription truly works for your daily routine. Whether you’re on the go, working long days in front of a screen, or need specialized lenses for a condition like astigmatism or dry eye, we’ve got you covered.
Our experienced eye care team helps patients across Cranston and East Providence feel confident about their vision every day. If you’re squinting more than you used to — or just can’t remember your last exam — it’s probably time to stop guessing and come see us. Book your appointment.