2026-02-21
Most people wait until they can barely read a street sign before they think about booking an eye exam. But your eyes don't always give you obvious signals. FYI — Okotoks optometrists recommend adults have their eyes examined every one to two years, even if everything feels fine. Vision can change gradually, and conditions like glaucoma or early cataracts often develop without any noticeable symptoms at first.
So how do you know it's time? Here are five signs that you should book an eye exam sooner rather than later.
1. You're Getting Headaches After Screen Time
If you're reaching for painkillers after a few hours at your computer, your eyes might be the cause. When your prescription is even slightly off, your eye muscles have to work harder to compensate — and that extra strain leads to tension headaches, usually behind the eyes or across the forehead.
Digital eye strain has become one of the most common reasons people visit an eyecare provider in Okotoks. Between work screens, phones, and tablets, many of us log eight or more hours of screen time daily. A current prescription paired with blue light lenses can make a dramatic difference. FYI, Okotoks families who switch to blue light protection often notice less eye fatigue within the first week.
2. You Squint or Tilt Your Head to See Clearly
Squinting works by narrowing the amount of light entering your eyes, which temporarily sharpens focus. If you catch yourself doing it regularly — reading your phone, watching TV, checking price tags — your prescription has likely changed. Tilting your head to one side can also indicate an imbalance in how your eyes are working together.
This is especially important to watch for in children. Kids rarely complain about blurry vision because they don't know what "normal" looks like. If your child squints, sits too close to the screen, or loses their place while reading, it's time for a children's eye exam.
3. Your Eyes Feel Dry, Irritated, or Watery
Dry eyes are more than just annoying — they can affect the clarity of your vision and the health of your cornea. Alberta's dry climate, combined with indoor heating during our long winters, makes this a particularly common issue in Okotoks. If your eyes feel gritty, burn after a long day, or water excessively (which is actually your eyes overcompensating for dryness), bring it up at your next exam.
Your optometrist can check the surface of your eye and assess your tear film quality. Sometimes the fix is as simple as preservative-free drops. Other times, dry eyes signal something more — like a medication side effect or a change in how your eyelids are functioning.
4. You Notice Changes in Your Iris or Vision
Any visible change to the eye should be checked promptly. Look in a mirror: is the colour of your iris consistent in both eyes? Are there any new spots, cloudiness, or differences in pupil size? While most iris changes are harmless (eye colour can shift subtly with age), some can indicate conditions that need attention — like iris melanoma or inflammation inside the eye called iritis.
Changes in your field of vision are another red flag. If you've noticed blind spots, floaters that suddenly increase, flashes of light, or a sense that your peripheral vision has narrowed, don't wait — see your eye care provider right away. Sudden vision changes can point to retinal issues that are treatable when caught early.
5. It's Been More Than Two Years
Even if your vision seems perfect, a lot can change in two years. Eye exams aren't just about reading charts — they check your eye pressure, the health of your retina, and how your eyes work as a team. Many eye diseases affect people with 20/20 vision, which is why routine exams are considered preventive healthcare, not just a prescription update.
For children and adults over 60, annual exams are recommended. Everyone else should aim for every two years at minimum. If you wear contact lenses, annual exams are essential to make sure your lenses still fit properly and your corneas are healthy.
What Happens During an Eye Exam at Fantastic Glasses?
We know some people put off exams because they remember the old "one or two" routine dragging on forever. At Fantastic Glasses, we use the Essilor R800 automated refractor to get a precise digital measurement of your eyes in seconds. It takes the guesswork out and gives your optometrist an accurate starting point — meaning a faster, more comfortable exam overall.
Your exam includes a full assessment of your eye health, visual acuity, iris and pupil response, eye pressure, and more. If you need a new prescription, we have a wide range of eyeglasses and sunglasses to choose from, and our 3-for-1 deal means you can save on specs without settling for less. Three complete pairs — everyday glasses, sunglasses, and a spare — for one great price.
Don't Wait for a Problem — Book Today
The best time to catch an eye problem is before it becomes one. Whether it's been a while since your last exam, you've noticed any of the signs above, or you just want peace of mind, Fantastic Glasses is here for your eyecare in Okotoks. Book your appointment online or call us at (587) 997-3937.