Getting a new pair of glasses can be an exciting experience, but sometimes it can come with an unexpected side effect: a headache. Whether you’ve just upgraded your prescription or switched to a new frame style, a headache from new glasses can be frustrating.
In this guide, we’ll explore why new glasses cause headaches, how long they typically last, and what you can do to alleviate the discomfort. Understanding this common issue will help you adjust to your new glasses and enjoy clear vision without the pain.
Why Do New Glasses Cause Headaches?
Headaches caused by new glasses can occur for several reasons. Here are the most common causes:
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1. Adjustment Period
When you first start wearing new glasses, your eyes need time to adjust to the new prescription, especially if it differs significantly from your old one. This is often the most common reason for headaches.
- Symptoms: Dull or throbbing headache, often starting at the temples or above the eyes.
- How Long It Lasts: A few days to a week, depending on how much your prescription changed.
2. Incorrect Prescription
If your prescription is wrong, whether it’s for distance, near vision, or astigmatism, it can lead to eye strain, causing headaches.
- Symptoms: Sharp, intense pain, blurred vision, dizziness.
- How to Fix It: Return to your optometrist or ophthalmologist to check your prescription and get it adjusted.
3. Improperly Fitted Glasses
Glasses that don’t fit properly can cause discomfort, leading to tension headaches. Frames that are too tight, too loose, or positioned incorrectly can press on your temples or ears.
- Symptoms: Pain in the temples, behind the ears, or across the nose.
- How to Fix It: Visit your eyewear store to adjust the frames for a more comfortable fit.
4. Wrong Lens Type or Coating
If you’re using progressive lenses or lenses with special coatings, it may take some time to get used to them. Progressive lenses, in particular, have multiple focal points, which can strain your eyes if you’re not accustomed to them.
- Symptoms: Discomfort with focusing, eye strain, and headaches, especially while reading or looking at objects up close.
- How to Fix It: Give your eyes time to adjust, and if the headaches persist, consult with your optometrist about your lens options.
How Long Will a New Glass Headache Last?
For most people, headaches from new glasses will subside after a few days to a week as your eyes adjust. If your symptoms persist beyond this period or worsen, it could indicate a more serious issue with the prescription or fit, and you should consult your eye doctor.
How to Relieve a Headache from New Glasses
If you’re experiencing a headache from your new glasses, here are some tips to help alleviate the pain:
1. Take Regular Breaks
When wearing new glasses, especially progressive lenses or reading glasses, take breaks every 20 to 30 minutes to give your eyes a rest. The 20-20-20 rule (look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds every 20 minutes) can reduce strain.
2. Give Your Eyes Time to Adjust
Wearing your new glasses for longer periods each day will help your eyes get used to the new prescription. Start with a few hours at a time and gradually increase the duration.
3. Adjust Your Glasses
Ensure that your glasses fit properly. Adjust the nose pads and temple arms for a comfortable fit. If your glasses feel too tight or too loose, they may cause pressure and contribute to headaches.
4. Stay Hydrated
Dehydration can also contribute to headaches. Drink plenty of water, especially if you’re experiencing discomfort with new glasses.
5. Consult Your Optometrist
If the headaches persist or are particularly severe, it’s important to contact your optometrist to rule out other issues. They may need to adjust your prescription or make sure your lenses are correctly fitted.
When to See a Doctor
If your headache continues for more than a week, or if it worsens, you should consult with your optometrist or an ophthalmologist. Additionally, if you experience:
- Vision problems such as blurry vision or double vision
- Severe or intense headaches that do not subside
- Nausea or dizziness in addition to headaches
These symptoms could indicate that your glasses need further adjustment or that there’s an underlying issue.
Tips for Preventing New Glasses Headaches
- Get a comprehensive eye exam: Ensure that your prescription is accurate and up-to-date.
- Choose comfortable frames: Opt for frames that fit your face and don’t put pressure on your temples or nose.
- Gradually increase wear time: Allow your eyes time to adapt, especially if you’ve changed prescriptions or lens types.
- Take breaks from screen time: Limit screen exposure to reduce eye strain, which can exacerbate headaches.
FAQs:
1 Why do new glasses cause headaches?
New glasses can cause headaches due to an adjustment period, incorrect prescription, improper fit, or unfamiliar lens types, such as progressive lenses.
2 How long do headaches from new glasses last?
Headaches typically last a few days to a week as your eyes adjust to the new prescription, but they should subside over time.
3 What can I do to relieve headaches from new glasses?
You can relieve headaches by taking breaks, gradually increasing wear time, ensuring your glasses fit properly, and staying hydrated.
4 When should I see a doctor about headaches from new glasses?
Consult an optometrist if the headaches persist for more than a week, worsen, or are accompanied by vision issues or dizziness.
5 How can I prevent headaches when getting new glasses?
Prevent headaches by choosing comfortable frames, getting an accurate prescription, and taking regular breaks from screen time to reduce eye strain.
Conclusion:
Experiencing a headache after getting new glasses is a common issue that usually resolves with time. Whether it’s due to an adjustment period, incorrect prescription, or an improper fit, understanding the cause can help you address the problem effectively. Remember to be patient during the transition, but don’t hesitate to reach out to your eye care professional if the headaches persist.
