How Long Is An Eye Prescription Good For?
Your glasses and contact lens prescriptions generally last for one or two years. This can vary slightly depending on local laws, so check the legislation for your area. Before ordering a new pair of eyeglasses with us, ensure that you have an up to date prescription. Once you have your prescription, the rest is easy. Simply enter the numbers on your prescription when you make your order and we’ll do the rest. The question “how long is a prescription good for” and why you need a new one every few years is frequently asked, so let’s explore the reasons!
Why Do I Need New Glasses?
You might think that once you have a glasses prescription you are set for life, but it is very common for our vision to change throughout our lives. This is more common when we are younger or passed middle age. If your glasses prescription is even slightly incorrect it can cause eye strain over time. Note that the age-old myth of a bad prescription affecting your vision permanently is just that, a myth. Saying that, a bad prescription can cause discomfort and even be dangerous in situations like driving.
How Do I Know If I Need New Glasses?
There are a few signs to look out for that indicate it’s time to update your eyeglasses. If you are getting headaches around your eyes it could mean that you are having trouble focusing and are suffering from eye strain; this is a strong sign that your prescription isn’t quite what it should be.
A symptom related to headaches is squinting. If you need to squint to see distant object clearly you probably need a stronger prescription. This squinting can also lead to eyestrain, so try to avoid it!
An obvious sign that you need to visit an eye doctor is if your vision has become noticeably blurry. This can sneak up on you since it can happen gradually, so pay attention to things like road signs being more difficult to read or if you need to squint more frequently.
Even if you haven’t noticed any of these changes, it is a good idea to visit your optician for an eye exam around once a year. They can assess your eyesight as well as test for conditions such as glaucoma, diabetes, lupus and even some forms of cancer.
Aside from vision issues, there are other reasons you may want to update your eyeglasses. Our glasses go through a lot, bent frames, scratched lenses, and worn nose pads are all too common. This daily wear and tear means that your glasses won’t last forever, so it might be a good idea to start looking at our huge selection of eyeglass frames starting at $6, just make sure your prescription isn’t expired!
Do Prescriptions Expire?
If you are living in the US then your glasses prescription will expire after two years. If you have more serious vision issues it will expire after one year. We strongly suggest that you get a checkup before purchasing to ensure that your new glasses are perfect in every way.
Can You Use An Eyeglass Prescription Anywhere?
An eyeglass prescription can be used in any online glasses store (including Eyebuydirect) or at an optometrist. However, be certain that the prescription you have matches the type of glasses you are trying to purchase. A prescription for a single vision corrective lenses has less information than one for multifocal lenses. Also, be sure that your eyeglass prescription is not expired when you use it to order eyeglasses.
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How Much Does An Eye Exam Cost?
The cost of an exam can vary depending on things like insurance and the type of professional performing the exam, but the full cost can range from $50 to $100. Finding cheap eye exams can be a struggle, but your insurance plan may provide some assistance. Some plans cover the cost of an eye exam entirely, while others will help with some of it. Check the details of your plan for more information.
There are two types of eye doctor who can perform an eye exam. Optometrists hold a Doctor of Optometry degree. They are qualified to give eye exams and prescribe eyeglasses and contact lenses. An ophthalmologist (try saying that three times quickly) is a medical doctor who specializes in eyes and visual issues. An eye exam from an ophthalmologist will generally be more expensive than a relatively cheap eye exam from an optometrist. You will usually visit an ophthalmologist when you have a more serious issue, not just for a routine checkup.
Opticians are qualified to fit eyeglasses and lenses and show patients how to put in contact lenses. They don’t perform eye exams, and so will refer you to one of the previously mentioned professionals if necessary.
Where Can I Get A Cheap Eye Exam?
We have a handy tool right here to help you find eye doctors near you. This will make it easy for you to find the best value place to get an eye exam. You can even enter your insurance plan to see what is available. Start looking for eye doctors near you here.
Buying Eyebuydirect Eyeglasses With Your Prescription
Once you have an accurate prescription, you can order your new glasses safe in the knowledge that the lenses will correct your vision properly. Make sure you enter your prescription carefully.
There are loads of options for you to choose from when it comes to customizing your lenses. Remember to choose the correct SPH measurement (plus or minus) depending on whether you are near or far-sighted. The CYL value is for those who have an astigmatism, if you don’t see this measurement on your prescription then leave this option at zero.
After entering your numbers, you can choose from some useful optional coatings including digital screen protection, light adjusting lenses, or sun-blocking tints.
So what are you waiting for? With your up-to-date prescription in hand, you’re ready to browse our 1200+ styles and finally find that perfect frame.
