Why Do We Get Headaches When Wearing New Glasses but Not with Old Ones of the Same Prescription?

Wearing new glasses can sometimes result in headaches, even when they have the same prescription as your old ones. Several factors can contribute to this discomfort, often related to differences in frame fit, lens quality, and adjustments needed for the new pair. It is essential to ensure that the new glasses are correctly fitted to minimize any discomfort. Consulting with an eye care professional can help address any issues causing headaches.

Optical and Physiological Differences

New glasses may introduce headaches due to subtle but significant differences between them and your old pair. The optical lab may not have used the same pupillary distance (PD), which is the distance between the centres of the pupils. This difference in PD can cause eye strain and discomfort. Additionally, the base curve of the lenses, which is the outside curve of the lens, may differ, leading to discomfort.

Lens Material and Tints

Switching from one lens material to another, such as changing from glass, plastic, or polycarbonate lenses, can also cause headaches. Different materials have different refractive properties, which can affect how light is processed by the eye. Similarly, changing the tint of the lenses or not getting one can impact your comfort, especially if you are used to a certain light filtering level.

Fitting and Frame Type

The type of frame can also contribute to headaches. For instance, switching from a zyl (acetal) plastic frame to a metal frame, such as titanium, can cause discomfort due to differences in pantoscopic tilt. Pantoscopic tilt is the angle of the lens plane from the vertical. Zyl frames generally have a higher angle than metal frames, and this difference can affect how the glasses sit on your nose and the distance from your eyes to the lenses, leading to headaches.

Understanding Focal Length and Lens-Induced Stress

Focal length, or the distance from the back of the lenses to your eyeballs, can also vary between new and old glasses. This difference in focal length can result in the lenses not being properly aligned with your eyes, causing stress and discomfort. Additionally, the angle at which the frames are set may also be different, leading to further issues. These minor but critical changes can accumulate and cause headaches for some wearers.

Consulting an Eye Care Professional

If you are experiencing headaches after getting new glasses, it is crucial to consult an eye care professional. An eye care specialist can help identify and address any issues that may be causing the discomfort. They can check if the new glasses are properly fitted and the prescription is correct. Regular eye exams are essential to ensure that your glasses are working optimally for you.

Conclusion

Headaches after getting new glasses, especially if the prescription is the same as your old ones, are often due to differences in frame fit, lens characteristics, and minor adjustments needed for the new pair. While these differences might be subtle, they can significantly impact your comfort. Consulting with an eye care professional can help resolve any issues and ensure that your new glasses provide relief and improved vision.