Wearing glasses can lead to headaches. This discomfort often arises as the eyes and brain adapt to new visual inputs or when existing eyewear is no longer suitable.
Reasons Glasses Can Cause Headaches
New eyewear often requires an adjustment period as the eyes and brain learn to interpret images through new lenses. For first-time wearers or those with significant prescription changes, this adaptation can take a few days to two weeks, or longer for multifocal lenses. During this time, eye muscles work harder to compensate, which can result in temporary headaches.
Headaches can also stem from an incorrect eyeglass prescription. If lenses are too strong, too weak, or if pupillary distance is inaccurate, eyes must strain to focus. This continuous muscular effort can lead to discomfort. Even minor errors in lens power or alignment can provoke symptoms.
The physical fit of the frames also plays a role. Glasses that are too tight can exert pressure on the temples, nose bridge, or behind the ears, causing localized pain. Conversely, frames that are too loose may slip, forcing constant adjustment or altered head posture, which can also induce strain. Misaligned lenses, whether due to frame issues or incorrect manufacturing, can cause visual distortion and eye muscle fatigue.
Certain lens types, such as progressive lenses, have multiple powers and typically require a longer adaptation phase. During this period, individuals might experience peripheral distortion, dizziness, or imbalance, contributing to headaches as the brain learns to navigate different zones. Underlying eye conditions like uncorrected astigmatism can also contribute to eye strain and headaches.
Recognizing Headache Types and Symptoms
Tension headaches often feel like a dull ache or pressure around the forehead, temples, or back of the head. These can arise from constant muscle contraction involved in trying to achieve clear vision.
Eye strain headaches result from prolonged visual effort. Symptoms include pain behind or around the eyes, extending to the forehead. These headaches may be accompanied by blurry vision, particularly after extended periods of reading or screen use, and increased sensitivity to light.
Individuals might experience eye fatigue or dry eyes. Difficulty focusing, especially when shifting gaze between different distances, can also occur. Sustained effort to see clearly can lead to tension in the neck and shoulders, adding to overall discomfort.
Strategies to Relieve Discomfort
Allowing an adequate adjustment period is beneficial for new glasses. For new eyewear, especially with significant prescription changes or progressive lenses, the eyes and brain need time to adapt. Most people adjust within a few days to two weeks. Consistently wearing the new glasses as recommended by an eye care professional can help accelerate this process.
Checking the fit of the frames can alleviate pressure points. Frames should sit comfortably without pinching the nose or temples, and arms should not press too tightly behind the ears. An optician can make adjustments to ensure proper alignment and positioning, which can often resolve discomfort.
Taking regular breaks during visually demanding tasks can significantly reduce eye strain. The 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at an object 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds. This allows eye muscles to relax and reset.
Optimizing environmental lighting can improve visual comfort. Adequate, non-glare lighting when reading or using digital screens can reduce eye effort. For screen use, adjusting monitor settings and positioning the screen at an appropriate distance can minimize strain. General wellness practices, such as staying hydrated and maintaining good posture, indirectly support comfort and can help mitigate headache severity.
Seeking Professional Guidance
If headaches persist or worsen beyond the typical adjustment period for new glasses, or if self-care strategies do not provide relief, consulting an eye care professional is advisable.
Prompt professional evaluation is recommended if headaches are accompanied by new or unusual symptoms. These might include severe vision changes, double vision, persistent dizziness, nausea, or other concerning symptoms. Such signs could indicate an incorrect prescription, manufacturing errors, or an underlying eye condition.
Regular comprehensive eye examinations ensure prescriptions remain accurate. Vision can change over time, and routine check-ups allow eye care professionals to update prescriptions as needed, preventing future strain and associated headaches.