A few weeks ago, started experiencing headaches and serious eye strain. More than an hour at the keyboard and objects near or far appeared blurry. Eye drops and a fistful of generic Advil swapped aches and strain for heartburn and watery eyes. Relief lasted until the symptoms returned, and usually quickly. Being preternaturally stubborn, this self medication cycle of denial went on for awhile, until reading became too painful for any length of time.

Then I remembered I had the same eyeglass prescription for nearly three years. Probably my vision had declined over time. That’s how it’s been since age six.

So it was off to the optometrist.

Instead of an ominous diagnosis, the eye examiner provided a rather welcome bit of information. Somewhat paradoxically, I have hit the age where vision often improves, rather than deteriorates. I am there roughly 5 to 10 years ahead of schedule, which I’m conflicted about, but I find no fault with the fix: Crank down the current prescription a few notches, and voila. Headaches and eyestrain begone!

So too much correction actually causes far more discomfort than not enough. I did not know that.