Can Wearing Outdated Eyeglasses Or Contact Lenses Harm My Eyes?

If your eyeglasses or contacts seem past their prime, you may wonder – is it actually bad for my eyes to keep wearing them? This is a common question many patients have. Read on for guidance from our team at Eyecare Professionals on whether you need to schedule an updated eye exam.

How Eyewear Prescriptions Work

Your optometrist determines your eyewear prescription based on your eyes' focusing ability and need for correction. As you age, your vision can change, meaning your old prescription may no longer be accurate. Wearing outdated eyewear strains your eyes as they work extra hard to see through the wrong lenses.

Warning Signs Your Eyewear Needs Updating

Schedule an eye exam if you notice any of the following:

• Blurry vision, eyestrain, or headaches when wearing your eyeglasses or contacts 
• Squinting, trouble seeing at night, or irritation when wearing contacts 
• Frequently losing or needing to clean contacts 
• Contacts feeling dry and uncomfortable throughout the day 

These are signs your prescription is no longer the right fit. An optometrist can provide an updated glasses or contacts prescription tailored to your current vision needs.

Dangers of Wearing Expired Contact Lenses

Contact lenses have an expiration date, usually about one year after opening. Wearing expired contacts puts you at risk for:

• Eye infections – Old contacts collect bacteria 
• Corneal ulcers – The contour of the lenses changes, causing eye irritation 
• Decreased vision – Proteins deposit on lenses, making them less transparent 

Be sure to replace your contacts regularly and follow your optometrist's recommendations for wearing and care.

Schedule Regular Eye Exams with Our Optometrists Near You

To keep your eyes healthy and your vision clear, have an eye exam every one to two years. This ensures your eyeglasses or contact lens prescription stays current. Children may need exams more frequently as their vision changes rapidly. Your eye doctor will advise on the right exam schedule for you.

Don't take chances with your eye health and vision. Our optometrists at Eyecare Professionals serve patients throughout Mandan, Hazen, Washburn, ND, and surrounding areas. Call today to schedule your eye exam and update your eyewear prescription if needed. We're here to help you see your best!