Getting new corrective lenses often promises clearer vision, but can also bring an unexpected challenge: headaches. While it may seem counterintuitive, experiencing headaches after receiving new glasses is common. This article explores why new glasses can cause headaches, offers strategies for managing this adjustment, and provides guidance on when to seek professional eye care.
Reasons for Headaches
New glasses often cause headaches due to the physiological adjustment required by the eyes and brain. When a prescription changes, the eyes’ six muscles must adapt to focusing differently. This increased effort can lead to muscle strain within the eye, resulting in a headache. The visual system, which has compensated for previous vision deficiencies, now needs to re-learn how to process images through the new lenses.
An incorrect prescription is another common cause of new glasses headaches. If the lens power is too strong or too weak, or if the pupillary distance is inaccurate, the eyes are forced to work harder for clear vision. This constant overcompensation can lead to eye strain and headaches. Such errors can also cause blurred vision or visual distortions, contributing to discomfort.
The physical fit of the new frames can also contribute to headache development. Frames that are too tight may exert pressure on the temples, nose bridge, or behind the ears, triggering tension headaches. Conversely, frames that are too loose can slide down the nose, causing the wearer to constantly adjust them or strain their eyes to look through the correct part of the lens. Ensuring a proper fit is as important as the prescription itself for comfort.
Certain lens types, such as progressive lenses or bifocals, often demand a more involved adaptation period. These multifocal lenses contain different powers for various viewing distances, requiring the eyes and brain to learn how to seamlessly transition between them. This can initially lead to a sense of disorientation, dizziness, or headaches as the brain adjusts to the new visual landscape.
Managing Headaches from New Glasses
To alleviate headaches during the adjustment phase, consider a gradual adaptation approach. Instead of wearing new glasses all day immediately, start with shorter periods, like an hour or two, and progressively increase wear time. This allows your eyes and brain to slowly acclimate to the new prescription without becoming overwhelmed. Avoid switching back to old glasses, as this prolongs adjustment and hinders adaptation.
Regularly taking breaks from visually demanding tasks can also be helpful. If you spend extended periods looking at screens or reading, periodically rest your eyes by looking away or closing them for a few minutes. This can reduce eye strain, which often accompanies the initial adjustment to new eyewear. Ensuring adequate hydration and rest can also support overall well-being, potentially mitigating headache severity.
If discomfort persists or the frames feel physically uncomfortable, a return visit to the optician for a fit check is advisable. Minor adjustments to the frame can significantly improve comfort by relieving pressure points on the nose or temples. For those who frequently use digital screens, lenses with an anti-reflective coating can reduce glare and associated eye strain, further lessening the likelihood of headaches.
When to Consult an Eye Care Professional
While some headaches are a normal part of adjusting to new glasses, professional intervention may be necessary in certain cases. If headaches do not subside after a reasonable adjustment period, typically within one to two weeks, consult your eye care professional. Persistent discomfort beyond this timeframe could suggest an underlying issue.
Seek professional advice if your headaches worsen over time rather than improving. If headaches are accompanied by other concerning symptoms such as severe dizziness, nausea, significant blurriness, double vision, or eye pain, an immediate follow-up is recommended. These symptoms could point to issues beyond typical adjustment.
If your self-management efforts have not yielded relief, or if you suspect that the prescription itself might be inaccurate, contacting your eye care professional is the appropriate next step. They can re-evaluate your vision, confirm the accuracy of your prescription, and ensure the glasses were manufactured correctly, including precise measurements like pupillary distance. This ensures any potential errors are identified and corrected.