10 Signs You Might Need an Eye Test.

Many people wait until their vision becomes noticeably blurred or uncomfortable before booking an eye test. But your eyes can often signal trouble well before major symptoms appear. Regular eye exams not only keep your vision sharp—they can also detect early signs of eye disease, changes in prescription, and even general health issues. At The Eyecare Spot, we recommend being aware of these subtle clues that your eyes may need attention.

1. Blurred Vision That Comes and Goes

If you’re struggling to see clearly, especially when reading, driving, or using screens, it could indicate a change in your prescription. Temporary blurred vision might also point to dry eyes or screen-related fatigue. Either way, an eye test can help pinpoint the cause and offer the right solution.

2. Difficulty Seeing at Night

When your eyes begin to struggle in low light, such as while driving at dusk or in dimly lit restaurants, this could be an early sign of issues like cataracts or general visual decline. Our comprehensive eye exams include testing in low light.

3. Frequent Headaches

Recurring headaches, especially around the forehead or behind the eyes, can be a sign that your eyes are working too hard to focus. This is especially common with uncorrected vision problems or outdated prescriptions. A simple prescription update can often offer significant relief.

4. Eye Strain or Fatigue

If your eyes feel tired or sore by the end of the day, particularly after extended screen time, it may be time for a check-up. Digital eye strain is a growing issue in our screen-dominated world. We can recommend tailored solutions, including blue light filtering lenses to ease daily strain.

5. Squinting to Focus

If you find yourself squinting often—whether it’s to read a menu, view street signs, or see the TV—this is a strong indicator that your current vision isn’t clear enough. Squinting temporarily improves focus, but it also causes eye fatigue and can lead to further strain.

6. Trouble Focusing Between Distances

Difficulty shifting your focus between near and far objects, such as looking from your laptop to the whiteboard or dashboard to the road may point to emerging presbyopia or astigmatism. These are very common issues that can be corrected with the right lenses.

7. Dry, Itchy, or Watery Eyes

Changes in tear production or eye surface health can lead to irritation, burning, or excessive watering. Environmental factors, allergies, and screen use are common causes, but underlying eye conditions might also be to blame. Our optometrist can determine what’s contributing to your discomfort and provide treatment options.

8. Light Sensitivity

If your eyes have become more sensitive to sunlight, headlights, or indoor lighting, it could signal issues like dry eyes, cataracts or uncorrected refractive error. During your appointment, a comprehensive assessment will be made to determine the cause or causes of light sensitivity.

9. Floaters, Flashes or Visual Distortions

Sudden floaters, flashing lights, or visual distortions like wavy lines should never be ignored. These symptoms may indicate changes in the retina or early signs of more serious conditions. Prompt diagnosis can protect your vision, especially if you experience these symptoms suddenly or frequently.

10. It’s Been Over Two Years

Even if you’re not noticing symptoms, a general rule is to have an eye test every one to two years. For children, older adults, or people with diabetes or a family history of eye disease, more frequent check-ups are recommended. At The Eyecare Spot, we make the process easy, informative, and personalised.

Don’t Wait Until Something Feels Wrong

Eyesight changes can happen gradually, which is why proactive care is so important. Regular testing can help you stay on top of your vision and detect issues early, when they’re easier to treat. If any of these signs sound familiar—or it’s simply been a while, book your eye test with our experienced optometrists today.