Good vision is essential to daily life, and it’s easy to take it for granted—until something feels off. Whether you’ve recently noticed subtle changes or have been struggling with your vision for a while, it’s important to keep an eye on any signs that could indicate you need glasses or a prescription update. Vision changes can happen gradually, making it harder to notice at first, but being aware of common symptoms is key to addressing any issues early.
Here are 10 signs that you might need glasses or an update to your current prescription:
1. Frequent Headaches
If you find yourself experiencing more headaches than usual, it could be a sign that your eyes are straining to focus. Eye strain is a common cause of headaches, especially when reading, working on a computer, or even watching TV. If your current prescription isn’t strong enough or if your eyes are working harder than they should, headaches might be your body’s way of telling you it’s time for an eye exam.
2. Blurry Vision (Near or Far)
One of the most obvious signs that you need glasses or a prescription update is blurred vision. Whether you’re having trouble seeing objects up close (a sign of farsightedness) or things at a distance (a sign of nearsightedness), blurred vision can affect your daily life. If you find that squinting doesn’t help or that things are consistently out of focus, it’s time to schedule an eye exam.
3. Difficulty Seeing at Night
Do you find it harder to see when driving at night or in low-light conditions? This could be a symptom of nearsightedness, astigmatism, or even an aging eye condition like presbyopia. If you’re squinting or having trouble seeing clearly at night, your current prescription may need a tweak.
4. Eye Strain or Fatigue
If you’re spending long hours in front of a computer or reading and your eyes start to feel heavy or tired, it could indicate that your eyes are not adjusting properly. Constant eye strain is often linked to vision problems like nearsightedness or presbyopia (age-related farsightedness). A new prescription can reduce the strain and help you see clearly without discomfort.
5. Frequent Squinting
Do you find yourself squinting to read street signs, the TV screen, or even text on your phone? Squinting is an unconscious response to blurry vision—it temporarily helps you focus by limiting the amount of light entering your eyes. If you’re constantly squinting, it’s likely a sign that your vision isn’t quite right, and you may need glasses or an updated prescription.
6. Double Vision
Double vision, or diplopia, is when you see two images of a single object. This could indicate several vision problems, from astigmatism to more serious eye conditions like cataracts or neurological issues. If you experience double vision, it’s important to see an eye doctor as soon as possible for a thorough exam.
7. Difficulty Reading Small Print
If reading small text (such as fine print in a book, menu, or instructions) has become challenging, it might be due to presbyopia. This age-related condition typically affects people over 40 and makes it harder to focus on close objects. Reading glasses or an updated prescription can improve your ability to read comfortably.
8. Blurred Vision After Long Periods of Reading or Screen Time
Spending long hours staring at a screen or reading a book can cause temporary blurriness. However, if you notice that your vision remains blurry after a long day, even after resting your eyes, it could be a sign of a vision problem. A new prescription may be necessary to help your eyes focus better, especially with the growing number of people experiencing digital eye strain from prolonged screen time.
9. Sensitivity to Light
If you’re suddenly more sensitive to light, whether it’s sunlight or artificial lighting, this could be due to an underlying vision issue. Conditions like astigmatism, cataracts, or even dry eyes can make your eyes more sensitive to light. If you find yourself squinting often or feeling discomfort from bright lights, it’s a good idea to get your eyes checked.
10. Red, Itchy, or Watery Eyes
While red, itchy, or watery eyes are typically associated with allergies, they can also be signs of uncorrected vision problems. Eyes that are constantly trying to focus may become irritated, and the discomfort can lead to watering or redness. If you experience these symptoms often, it could indicate that you need a prescription update to alleviate the strain.
What to Do Next: Get an Eye Exam!
If you’ve noticed any of these signs, it’s essential to see an eye care professional for a comprehensive eye exam. Even if you’re unsure whether you need glasses or an updated prescription, an exam will help rule out potential issues and provide clarity about the health of your eyes.
Remember, your eyes are always working hard to help you see the world around you, so make sure to give them the care and attention they deserve. With the right prescription, you can reduce eye strain, prevent headaches, and enjoy better vision every day. Don’t wait until your vision becomes a bigger issue—schedule an eye exam today and take the first step toward clearer, more comfortable sight! Book an appointment online or call (587) 755-6060 for more information. We look forward to seeing you!
