Signs You Need Glasses: Common Symptoms and What to Do Next

Most people do not notice their eyes slowly changing. The signs are small at first. Here are the common ones, in simple words.

9 common signs you may need glasses

1. Blurry vision. Far things look soft, or near things do, or both.
2. Headaches. Often around the eyes or forehead, after reading or screens.
3. Squinting. You narrow your eyes to see signs, the board or the TV.
4. Tired or sore eyes. By the end of the day they feel heavy.
5. Holding things far or close. You push the phone away to read, or sit very near the screen.
6. Trouble at night. Lights seem to glare or streak when you drive after dark.
7. Double vision or ghosting. Letters seem to have a shadow.
8. Rubbing your eyes a lot.
9. Losing your place when you read.

These signs can have other causes

Tiredness, dry eyes, poor light, long screen hours and stress can cause the same feelings. That is why guessing is not enough. An eye test shows what is going on. See also computer glasses vs blue-cut lenses for digital eye strain.

See a doctor quickly if you have

• Sudden loss or change in vision
• Eye pain or a red eye that does not settle
• New flashes of light, or many new floaters
• An injury to the eye

Read who to see: optometrist or ophthalmologist.

Already wear glasses?

If these signs return, your prescription may have changed. See 5 warning signs you need an eye test, even if you wear glasses. Also see how often to get your eyes tested.

What happens next

1. Have an eye test.
2. If you need glasses, you get a prescription. See how to read it.
3. Choose a frame and a lens. See how to choose lenses.
4. New glasses can feel strange for a few days. See adjusting to a new prescription.

This article is general information, not medical advice. For persistent symptoms or any sudden change in your vision, see an eye-care professional.