Why Changing Nose Pads on Glasses Causes Discomfort: A Patient's Experience

Q: Why Changing Nose Pads on Glasses Causes Discomfort: A Patient's Experience

Hello： First, changes in the nose pads may be a factor contributing to your eye discomfort. <br>Different nose pad designs can alter the position and angle of your glasses, which in turn affects how the glasses contact your face. <br>This subtle change may lead to a redistributio

I feel uncomfortable every time I change the nose pads on my glasses?

Hello doctor, my eyesight is over 600 degrees in both eyes (with glare exceeding 100).
I got a pair of glasses two years ago, and after wearing them for over a year, I went to the optical shop to replace the nose pads.
After that, my eyes started to feel uncomfortable.
Initially, I felt a heavy sensation on my nose bridge, my eyes were sore and dry, and I experienced discomfort in my head (even to the point of pain).
After wearing them for a long time, I even felt a bit strange in my stomach.
Subsequently, I visited various optical shops to adjust the nose pads and frames, and I also consulted ophthalmologists and neurologists, but they all said there was nothing particularly wrong.
The ophthalmologist suggested that my prescription might be too high and that it could be reduced.
Eventually, with the optometrist's assistance, I was able to lower the prescription in the same frame without affecting my daily life, and I felt better.
However, just yesterday, since it was almost a year again, the nose pads were dirty, so I went back to the optical shop to replace them.
As a result, I experienced the previous symptoms again, though this time not as severe.
Currently, I feel a heaviness on my nose bridge, and when I wear glasses to work on the computer, my eyes feel dry, which is quite uncomfortable.
I wonder what factors might be influencing this situation?

Min, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/11/17

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology

Hello: First, changes in the nose pads may be a factor contributing to your eye discomfort.
Different nose pad designs can alter the position and angle of your glasses, which in turn affects how the glasses contact your face.
This subtle change may lead to a redistribution of pressure around the eyes, resulting in the discomfort you described.
Another possible factor is a change in the lens prescription.
Although your optometrist may have adjusted the lens power, even minor changes can impact your visual comfort.
Additionally, the eyes may require some time to adapt to new lenses, and temporary discomfort can sometimes occur.
Furthermore, prolonged computer use may also be one of the reasons for your eye discomfort.
Continuous staring at a computer screen can lead to eye strain and dryness, which may be more pronounced during your work on the computer.
To improve your current situation, I recommend ensuring that the position and angle of the nose pads are comfortable.
If possible, try to keep the nose pads clean to avoid dust or dirt affecting comfort.
Also, if you are using the computer for extended periods, be sure to take regular breaks to allow your eyes to rest and hydrate.
Finally, if these methods do not alleviate your discomfort, it is advisable to visit an ophthalmologist for further evaluation.

Reply Date: 2023/11/17

More Info

Changing nose pads on glasses can indeed lead to discomfort for some individuals, and your experience highlights several factors that may contribute to this issue. Let’s explore the potential reasons behind your discomfort, as well as some related medical insights.

Factors Contributing to Discomfort After Changing Nose Pads
1. Fit and Pressure Distribution: The primary function of nose pads is to distribute the weight of the glasses evenly across the nose. If the new nose pads are not the right size, shape, or material, they can create pressure points that lead to discomfort. This can cause a feeling of heaviness on the nose bridge, which may explain your sensation of a "heavy" nose.

2. Material Sensitivity: Different nose pad materials can affect comfort levels. For instance, silicone pads are generally softer and more comfortable than plastic ones. If the new pads are made from a material that irritates your skin or feels less comfortable, this could lead to discomfort, including dryness or irritation around the nose and eyes.

3. Adjustment Period: When you change any part of your eyewear, your body may need time to adjust. This adjustment period can lead to temporary discomfort as your facial muscles and skin adapt to the new fit. If the pads are positioned differently, they may alter how the frames sit on your face, leading to strain in the muscles around your eyes and forehead.

4. Optical Prescription Changes: You mentioned that your prescription was adjusted to a lower degree, which can also play a significant role in comfort. Higher prescriptions can lead to more significant distortion at the edges of the lenses, which may cause eye strain, especially if the frames are not aligned correctly with your visual axis. If the nose pads are not positioned correctly, it can misalign the lenses with your pupils, exacerbating discomfort.

5. Visual Fatigue: Extended periods of wearing glasses that do not fit well can lead to visual fatigue. Symptoms can include dry eyes, headaches, and a general feeling of discomfort. This is particularly relevant when using screens for long periods, as you mentioned experiencing discomfort while working on the computer.

6. Psychological Factors: Sometimes, discomfort can be exacerbated by anxiety or stress related to the discomfort itself. If you have previously experienced significant discomfort after changing nose pads, you may be more sensitive to similar sensations in the future, leading to a heightened perception of discomfort.

Recommendations for Alleviating Discomfort
1. Consult with an Optometrist: If discomfort persists, it’s essential to consult with an optometrist or an eyewear specialist who can assess the fit of your glasses and make necessary adjustments. They can ensure that the nose pads are correctly positioned and that the frames fit your face appropriately.

2. Try Different Nose Pad Materials: If you suspect that the material of the nose pads is causing irritation, ask your optometrist about alternatives. Silicone pads are often more comfortable and may alleviate some of the discomfort.

3. Regular Breaks: When using computers or screens, take regular breaks to reduce eye strain. The 20-20-20 rule is a good practice: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds.

4. Hydration and Eye Drops: If you experience dryness, consider using artificial tears or lubricating eye drops to keep your eyes moist, especially during prolonged screen time.

5. Monitor for Changes: Keep track of any changes in your vision or discomfort levels. If symptoms worsen or new symptoms arise, seek medical attention promptly.

In conclusion, discomfort after changing nose pads can stem from various factors, including fit, material sensitivity, and visual fatigue. By addressing these issues with the help of professionals and adopting good eye care practices, you can improve your comfort and overall experience with your eyewear.

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