Not seeing clearly? You’re not alone. Around 57% of Canadians over 20 years old have a vision problem that requires optical correction. Subtle vision changes can often go unnoticed, but recognizing the signs you might need glasses early is critical to preventing further eye strain and complications.

1. Frequent Headaches

Recurring headaches, especially after reading or looking at a screen for an extended period, can stem from uncorrected vision problems. Prolonged eye strain puts stress on surrounding muscles, leading to tension headaches.

2. Blurred Vision

Blurred vision is one of the most common and apparent signs that you need glasses. Struggling to see objects clearly—whether up close or at a distance—could indicate that you are either farsighted or nearsighted. 

3. Squinting Often

If you catch yourself squinting frequently, you are probably trying to refocus and see more clearly. While this may help in the moment, continuous squinting can lead to eye strain over time. Wearing glasses to sharpen the focus is a much better long-term solution.

4. Eye Fatigue or Strain

If your eyes feel tired, sore, or dry after prolonged reading, computer use, or driving, you may be suffering from eye strain. Uncorrected vision problems cause your eyes to work too hard, leading to eye fatigue and discomfort.

5. Holding Objects Too Close or Too Far

Holding objects closer or further away to bring them into focus can indicate a refractive error in your eyes. This can be effectively corrected with prescription lenses or glasses.

6. Difficulty Seeing at Night

Do you have trouble driving at night or seeing in low-light environments? This might signal that you need glasses or have a more serious underlying issue. Don’t delay scheduling a complete exam with your optometrist at Laurier Optical.

7. Double Vision

Seeing two images of a single object could indicate misalignment in your eyes or other, more serious, vision abnormalities. This sign that you might need glasses also requires prompt examination.

8. Seeing Halos Around Lights

Halos are bright circles around lights, which become especially noticeable at night. Bright halos can point to vision problems or astigmatism, indicating that you might need glasses.

9. Eye Rubbing

Eye rubbing is a natural reaction to tired or strained eyes and vision discomfort. Avoid rubbing your eyes to prevent irritation and focus on reducing eye fatigue with prescription glasses and frequent breaks.

10. Trouble Focusing on Screens

If you are having difficulties adjusting your focus between digital devices and real-world objects, you may benefit from light filtering or corrective lenses as well.

If you’re noticing any of these signs, you might need glasses. Book an eye exam at Laurier Optical to protect your vision and get clarity, comfort, and the correction you need.