Why Did My Eye Prescription Change?

If you’ve noticed that your vision has become blurry, or your glasses or contacts no longer seem to be working as well as before, it’s likely that your eye prescription has changed. This can happen for several reasons, and understanding the factors behind the shift in your vision is essential to maintaining your eye health. A trusted optometrist shares more information in this post.

Natural Aging Process

One of the most common reasons for a change in your prescription is the natural aging process. As we get older, our eyes go through various changes that can affect our vision. For example, presbyopia is a condition that typically develops after age 40, making it harder to focus on close objects. This is why many people require reading glasses or stronger prescriptions as they age.

Eye Strain and Lifestyle

Modern lifestyles can take a toll on our eyes, says eye care doctors. Spending long hours staring at digital screens can lead to eye strain, which may cause temporary or even permanent changes in your vision. Additionally, activities that require intense focus, such as reading or working in low light, can contribute to changes in your prescription.

Health Conditions and Medications

Certain health conditions, such as diabetes, can affect your eyesight over time. High blood sugar levels can lead to changes in the lens of your eye, temporarily altering your vision. Additionally, medications for conditions like high blood pressure or depression can have side effects that impact your eyesight, leading to fluctuations in your prescription.

Eye Conditions

Some eye conditions, like cataracts or glaucoma, can lead to changes in vision. Cataracts cause the lens of the eye to become cloudy, leading to blurred or distorted vision. Glaucoma, on the other hand, affects the optic nerve and can result in gradual vision loss, prompting changes in prescription.

Concerned about your vision? Schedule an eye exam today with a qualified optometrist at Northern Virginia Doctors of Optometry to ensure your prescription stays up-to-date and your eyes remain healthy. Call (703) 660-9494 or fill out our online form to schedule an appointment in Alexandria, VA. We also perform LASIK eye surgery.