Why Your New Glasses Cause Eye Pain and Dizziness: A Guide - Ophthalmology

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When you experience eye pain and dizziness after wearing new glasses, especially after a relatively short period like half an hour, it can be concerning. There are several potential reasons for these symptoms, and understanding them can help you address the issue effectively.


Possible Causes of Eye Pain and Dizziness with New Glasses
1. Incorrect Prescription: One of the most common reasons for discomfort with new glasses is an incorrect prescription. If the lenses are not accurately calibrated to your vision needs, it can lead to eye strain, discomfort, and even headaches. This is particularly true if there is a significant difference in the prescription between your two eyes, as it can cause your brain to struggle to reconcile the different visual inputs.

2. Adjustment Period: When you switch to a new prescription, especially if there is a significant change in your vision correction (like an increase in myopia or astigmatism), your eyes may need time to adjust. This adjustment period can lead to temporary discomfort, including pain and dizziness, as your visual system adapts to the new lenses.

3. Lens Type and Quality: The type of lenses you received can also play a role. For instance, if you have progressive lenses or bifocals, it may take longer for your eyes to adjust compared to single-vision lenses. Additionally, if the lenses are of poor quality or not properly aligned with your pupils, this can exacerbate discomfort.

4. Pupil Distance (PD) Misalignment: If the glasses are not fitted correctly, particularly if the pupil distance is not aligned with the optical center of the lenses, it can lead to visual distortions and discomfort. This misalignment can cause your eyes to work harder to focus, leading to pain and dizziness.

5. Eye Strain from Extended Use: If you are using digital devices frequently, the combination of new lenses and prolonged screen time can lead to digital eye strain. Symptoms include discomfort, dryness, and headaches, which can be compounded by the adjustment to new glasses.

6. Underlying Eye Conditions: If you have any underlying eye conditions, such as dry eye syndrome or uncorrected refractive errors, these can also contribute to discomfort when wearing new glasses.


Recommendations
1. Consult Your Optometrist: If you experience persistent pain and dizziness, it is crucial to return to your optometrist or ophthalmologist. They can re-evaluate your prescription and ensure that the lenses are correctly made and fitted.
2. Give It Time: If the discomfort is mild and you have just received your glasses, consider giving your eyes a few days to adjust. However, if symptoms worsen or do not improve, seek professional advice.

3. Limit Screen Time: To reduce eye strain, take regular breaks from screens using the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds.

4. Check for Dry Eyes: If you suspect dry eyes, consider using lubricating eye drops to alleviate discomfort. However, consult with your eye care professional before starting any new eye drops.

5. Consider Lens Adjustments: If the glasses are causing significant discomfort, ask your optometrist about making adjustments to the lenses or trying a different type of lens that may be more comfortable for your vision needs.

6. Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of your symptoms, including when they occur and their severity. This information can be valuable for your eye care provider in diagnosing the issue.


Conclusion
Experiencing eye pain and dizziness with new glasses can stem from various factors, including prescription errors, adjustment periods, and lens quality. It is essential to consult with your eye care professional to address these issues effectively. They can provide tailored advice and solutions to ensure your vision is comfortable and clear. Remember, your eye health is paramount, and addressing any discomfort promptly can prevent further complications.