A persistent ache behind the ears while wearing glasses is a common issue that often results in tension headaches. This discomfort occurs where the frame’s arms, known as the temples, rest against the mastoid bone and the delicate ear cartilage. The pain is usually a direct result of improper fit, which creates concentrated pressure points on sensitive areas of the head. Understanding the physical mechanics that cause this irritation is the first step toward finding lasting relief.
Mechanical Causes of Pain Behind the Ears
The core reason for pain behind the ears is an imbalance in the “fitting triangle,” the three points of contact between your glasses and your head: the bridge of the nose and the two ears. When the temple arms press too hard against the thin ear cartilage or the bone behind the ear, a pressure point is created that can trigger pain. Frames that are too narrow for the wearer’s head are a frequent culprit, as they constantly exert lateral pressure on the temples and the back of the ears.
The length and curvature of the temple arm also play a role in comfort. Temple arms that are too short may cause the frame to grip the head too tightly before reaching the proper bend point. Conversely, arms that are too long can exert downward pressure or slide, causing friction and irritation. This sustained pressure can aggravate nerves in the area, such as the greater occipital nerve, leading to referred pain felt as a headache at the base of the skull or behind the eyes.
Frame weight and its distribution further influence pressure points. Heavy frames, especially those with thick lenses or made from dense materials, increase the force applied to the points of contact, including the ears. An improper balance that shifts too much weight rearward will put stress on the ears. Additionally, some individuals may experience skin irritation or an allergic reaction to certain frame materials, such as nickel found in some metal frames, which adds to the discomfort.
Immediate Solutions and At-Home Adjustments
To find immediate relief, start with a visual inspection of the frame’s alignment. Place your glasses upside down on a flat surface to check if both temple arms lie flat and straight; a wobble indicates misalignment that can concentrate pressure on one ear. Gently adjusting the nose pads is one of the most effective fixes, as it alters the angle and height at which the frame sits, redistributing weight away from the ears. Pinching the nose pads closer together or spreading them slightly can shift the balance and relieve pressure.
Ensure the hinge screws are not overly tight, which can pull the arms inward and increase lateral pressure on the temples. For plastic frames, gentle application of heat allows for minor adjustments to the temple tips, but this must be done with caution to avoid damage. Holding the plastic temple tips under warm water or carefully using a hairdryer on a low setting for about 30 seconds makes the material pliable. This allows you to slightly widen the curvature or adjust the downward bend. These small changes can reduce the painful pressure felt behind the ears.
When to Consult Your Optician or Doctor
If at-home adjustments do not resolve the issue, consult an optician, as they possess specialized tools for precise frame manipulation. An optician can use a frame warmer to safely and permanently adjust the temple arm curvature and angle to match the contour of your head. This ensures weight is distributed evenly across the fitting triangle. They can also review the frame’s overall dimensions to confirm it is an appropriate size for your facial geometry.
An outdated or incorrect lens prescription can cause eye strain that manifests as a tension headache, which may be mistakenly attributed solely to the frame fit. When the eyes constantly strain to focus through an improperly centered or powered lens, the resulting muscle tension can lead to pain felt across the head. If the pain persists even after the frame fit has been verified or when you are not wearing your glasses, consult a doctor. This persistent pain could signal an underlying medical issue, such as temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction or a nerve disorder like occipital neuralgia.