Why Do Eyes Feel Strained After Wearing New Glasses?

Don't worry; eye strain after wearing new glasses for a few hours is very common. Here are different scenarios that could explain why you experience eye strain while adjusting to your new glasses.

Potential Causes of Eye Strain

Difference in Cylindrical Axis: If there is a difference in the cylindrical axis between your old and new glasses, your eyes may need some time to adapt. The change in the orientation of the lens can affect how your eyes focus, leading to temporary discomfort. Difference in PD (Pupillary Distance): A change in PD can also cause eye strain. Ensuring the correct PD is crucial for proper alignment and focus, which can significantly impact your comfort level. Tightness of the Frame: If the frame is too tight, it can put unnecessary pressure on the eyelids, causing discomfort. Make sure the glasses fit properly and are not overly tight or loose. New Lenses and Brain Adaptation: When you first get new glasses, there can be a period where your brain needs to adapt to the new viewpoint. This can take a few days or even a couple of weeks, during which you might experience eye strain. Increased Screen Time: Spending more time on electronic screens than before can contribute to eye strain regardless of the glasses. It is essential to take regular breaks and practice eye relaxation techniques.

Adjusting to Blue Light Glasses

Blue light glasses may also cause eye strain, although the reasons can vary. Here are a few possible causes:

Inaccurate Prescription: If the blue light glasses are not formulated accurately, they may not effectively filter blue light, causing eye strain. Poor Quality: Low-quality blue light glasses might not be effective in filtering blue light, potentially leading to discomfort. Your eyes may still need time to adjust to the new glasses, even if the prescription is correct. Increased Screen Time: Using electronic screens for long periods with or without blue light glasses can still cause eye fatigue. Ensure you take adequate breaks and practice eye relaxation techniques.

Seeking Professional Advice

Eye strain that persists despite wearing new glasses, whether they are regular glasses or blue light glasses, could indicate a problem with the prescription or a need for a different style of glasses. In such cases, consulting an eye professional is advisable. They can diagnose the issue and provide appropriate recommendations.

Additional Tips for Eye Comfort

Your eye muscles need time to rest and adjust. Consider reading Nav’s article on the real cure for eye strain for more detailed tips on managing and preventing eye strain.

If your eyes feel strained due to a wrong prescription, do not wear glasses that are not properly fitted. Refer to Nav’s article for more information on the proper care and use of glasses.

In my experience, eye strain often occurs due to a wrong prescription or improper fitting of the lens. If your glasses cause discomfort, do not wear them. For more detailed information, refer to Nav’s article on the real cure for eye strain.

It typically takes around a week to two weeks for your eyes to adjust to the change in the way the muscles must work due to the new glasses. During this period, be patient and allow your eyes time to adapt.