10 Early Signs You Might Need Glasses (Even If You Think You See Fine)

glasses from Reed Family Vision

Things look blurry?

The world may not be as out of focus as you think! Might be blurry vision!

Most people assume that needing glasses means struggling to read street signs or squinting at a menu. But vision problems often start subtly—so subtly, in fact, that you may not realize anything is wrong. At Reed Family Vision, we see many patients who are surprised to learn their eyes have been working overtime to compensate for a vision issue they didn’t even notice.

Here are 10 early signs that might mean it’s time to book an eye exam—even if your vision seems “just fine.”

1. Frequent Headaches

Recurring headaches, especially around the temples or behind the eyes, can be a sign of eye strain. Your eyes may be struggling to focus, especially while reading, using digital screens, or driving.

2. Squinting to See Clearly

If you find yourself squinting often—whether it’s to read a road sign or a text message—you might be trying to sharpen blurry vision. Squinting helps temporarily, but it’s not a solution.

3. Eye Fatigue or Strain

Do your eyes feel tired by the afternoon? Are you rubbing them constantly or feeling like they need a break? These are common signs of uncorrected vision problems.

4. Blurred Vision at Certain Distances

You may notice that things look blurry only up close or only far away. This could indicate nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia), or astigmatism.

5. Difficulty Seeing at Night

Struggling to see clearly in low-light conditions or while driving at night can be an early indicator that you need corrective lenses.

6. Double Vision

Seeing two of one object—even if only occasionally—is not normal and can signal a vision issue that glasses might help correct.

7. Sitting Too Close to Screens

Do you or your child sit very close to the TV or hold your phone inches from your face? That’s a common workaround for blurry vision and a sign it's time for an eye exam.

8. Trouble Focusing on Printed Text

If your eyes seem to "lose their place" while reading or if words appear to jump or move, you might be experiencing a focusing issue that glasses can help resolve.

9. Watery or Dry Eyes

Overcompensating for vision problems can lead to excessive eye rubbing, which may result in dry or watery eyes. It could also signal eye strain from overuse.

10. Avoiding Certain Activities

If you shy away from reading, driving at night, or working on the computer for long periods, it may be because your eyes are struggling to keep up.

When to See an Eye Doctor

Even subtle symptoms can signal a vision issue. At Reed Family Vision, we recommend comprehensive eye exams every one to two years—or sooner if you're experiencing any of the signs above.

Remember: catching problems early can help prevent further strain, improve quality of life, and protect your long-term eye health.

Schedule Your Eye Exam Today

If any of these signs sound familiar, don’t wait. Book a comprehensive eye exam with Reed Family Vision and let our caring team help you see clearly and comfortably.

👉 Schedule an Appointment Today