Experiencing discomfort with your glasses can be a puzzling and frustrating experience, especially when they’re supposed to enhance your vision. As anticipation builds for the Black Friday deals (the perfect time to update your prescription glasses), we felt it’s the right moment to delve into a question many glasses wearers have asked: “Why do my eyes hurt with my glasses?”
Let’s explore the potential reasons and solutions so you can minimize discomfort and maximize your eye health!
Table of Contents
Incorrect Prescription
One of the most common reasons for discomfort is an incorrect prescription.
Symptoms
- Blurred vision – this blurriness can be constant or intermittent.
- Headache – headaches often occur behind the eyes or in the temples, especially after reading, working on a computer or activities that require focused vision.
- Eye strain after wearing your glasses – this may be a burning or itching sensation, or pressure on or behind the eyes.
Solution
It’s crucial to have regular eye exams and ensure your prescription is up-to-date. If you’ve recently gotten new glasses, give your eyes a few days to adjust. If discomfort persists, consult your optometrist.
Frame Misalignment
If your frames are bent or misaligned, they might not sit correctly on your face.
Symptoms
- Pressure on the temples or nose.
- Uneven vision.
- Glasses sliding down your face.
Solution
Visit an optician to have your frames adjusted for a proper fit.
Lens Coatings and Material
Sometimes, the material of the lens or certain coatings might not be suitable for all users.
Symptoms
- Glare
- Distorted vision
- Difficulty adjusting to new glasses
Solution
Consult with your optometrist about the best lens materials and coatings for your needs, like anti-reflective or blue light-blocking options.
Prolonged Usage
If you’re new to wearing glasses or have recently started wearing them for longer durations, your eyes might need some time to adapt.
Symptoms
- Eye strain
- Dry eyes
- Eye fatigue
Solution
Practice the 20-20-20 rule: Set an alarm or reminder for every 20 minutes while you’re working or playing on your screen. Then shift your gaze to something 20 feet away to relax your eyes from constant up-close work. Maintain this focus for a full 20 seconds. This can help to reduce eye strain and dry eyes and can improve your overall comfort.
Underlying Eye Conditions
Sometimes, the discomfort might be due to an underlying eye condition and not the glasses themselves.
Symptoms:
- Persistent pain.
- Redness
- Dryness
Solution:
If you suspect this, it’s crucial to see an eye care professional immediately for a comprehensive evaluation.
Not Wearing Them Regularly
For those prescribed glasses for continuous wear, sporadic use can lead to discomfort.
- Symptoms: Difficulty in adjusting to vision with glasses after not wearing them for extended periods.
- Solution: Ensure regular wear as prescribed by your optometrist, allowing your eyes to adapt consistently.
Keeping your eyes comfortable
Eye comfort is paramount, and understanding the root cause of any discomfort with your glasses is the first step to finding a solution. Whether it’s a minor frame adjustment or addressing an eye condition, always prioritize your visual health.
If you’re ever unsure before or post-purchasing about your glasses, never hesitate to reach out to your optician. And if you’re considering expanding your eyewear collection, the holidays are the perfect time to do it. Remember to check out those Black Friday sunglasses and prescription glasses deals!