How to Make It Easier to Get Used to Your New Glasses and What to Expect

Many people who wear glasses are aware of the exhilaration and confidence boost that comes with donning new specs for the first time. However, sometimes, you need to adjust for a while before you can see comfortably. Things may look hazy, or you may notice feeling dizzy after lengthy wear. While some of these symptoms may be a typical aspect of the transition period, there are occasions when they warrant calling your eye doctor. See Dr. Gaddie to make sure your vision is clear and comfortable if you're having problems with your new glasses.

Typical signs and symptoms of adjustment

During the adjustment stage, it's typical to encounter a variety of symptoms. Understanding these can help you evaluate whether what you're feeling is common or if you should visit your optometrist.

Visual indications

  • Blurred vision: As your eyes get used to the new prescription, slight blurriness is normal.
  • Distortion:  Different aspects of your vision could vary slightly as you are adapting to new glasses, possibly considering how far away your object is.
  • Depth perception: At first, it could be difficult for you to judge how far away or how close an object is.

Symptoms in the body

  • Eye strain: When wearing your new glasses for the first few days, you may experience eye strain.
  • Headaches: During the first few days, mild headaches are typical.
  • Nausea and dizziness: Some persons suffer nausea or nausea, especially with progressive lenses.
Will my eyes have to adapt to new glasses?

Indeed. A new prescription usually takes two or three days to adjust to, though some wearers may experience distortion and eye strain for up to two weeks. It is a frequent occurrence, as it requires your eyes and your brains to take some time to adjust to processing images through a different lens. Give your brain a day or two to adapt to the crisp, new image it is receiving as accurately—whether it is your first pair of glasses or it has been a while since your prescription was updated. You have been compensated for vision problems for so long that it's "unusual." Your brain will acclimatise to the new normal that your new glasses provide.

Advice for simplifying the transition phase 

Gradual adaptation

  • Start slow: To ensure a smooth adjustment period, wear your new glasses for shorter periods each day. Wearing your glasses infrequently will make it easier for your eyes to get used to the prescription. Put them on for at least an hour each day. 
  • Avoid switching: If you have an old prescription, don't wear it back and forth. It will make it harder for your eyes to get used to your new glasses. 
  • Stop wearing old glasses: We understand that your old frames feel like a familiar friend, but it's never a good idea to wear your old eyeglasses with an outdated prescription, even if you still need them.

Correct fit and placement

  • Make sure it fits right: Your glasses should be tight enough and tight enough on your face. They should fit perfectly. Whenever you buy frames, an optometrist may take measurements that assure a perfect fit.
  • Adjust the position: Wearing properly fitted glasses affects both your comfort and vision quality. The optical centres of the lenses must always align with your eyes (your pupils, for example). A mismatched pair of lenses may cause headaches, double vision, or even strain in the eyes. For specific prescriptions, a frame with a smaller size would help you adjust to your new glasses sooner.

Breaks and eye exercises

  • Take breaks: Give your eyes a rest if you're feeling strained. Look away from screens and focus on distant objects periodically.
  • Eye exercises: Simple exercises like focusing on an object far away and then near can help your eyes adjust more quickly.
How long will it take for my eyes to completely get used to new glasses?

The majority of eye care professionals will tell you it will likely take two to three days to adapt to a normal modification in your glasses prescription. However, the modification period can last as much as 2 weeks in some unusual instances. If your eyes have actually not fully readjusted after 2 or 3 days, sign in with your ophthalmologist. They may want you ahead so they can examine your eyes and your glasses.

Just know that while several wearers will get used to their brand-new glasses in a couple of days, a substantial change in your spectacles prescription, a change to your progressive lenses, or getting your first spectacles prescription can result in a modification period that lasts approximately two weeks.

Seek professional guidance
  • Post-exam check-ins: If you're still experiencing issues after a fortnight or if your symptoms are intense, book a follow-up consultation with your eye care specialist.
  • Corrective measures: Acclimating to new spectacles typically takes a few weeks unless there's been a significant shift in your prescription. If you still need help beyond that timeframe, it may indicate a prescription mistake. Consult your optometrist promptly to rule out any errors and ensure your lenses are tailored to your specific needs.
Why are my new glasses giving me a headache?

While you adapt to your new prescription, your eyes and brain have to work harder to see clearly through your new lenses. The more you strain to see, the more likely you are to get a headache.

It's not unusual to have a headache the first day you wear your new prescription glasses, but if you're still dealing with headaches after two or three days, call your eye doctor.

Wearing new glasses with the same prescription may feel strange for a few reasons
  • Firstly, if you have switched to a different type of lens, such as progressive lenses or a thinner lens design, your vision may take some time to adapt to the change. 
  • Secondly, if you have chosen a different frame style, the shape, size, and curvature of the lenses can be affected. For instance, if you previously wore small rectangular frames but now have oversized round frames, the curve of the lenses will be different. It may require an adjustment period, regardless of whether your prescription remains the same.
Conclusion

Most people go through some adjustment period when they get new glasses. While this period can be different for everyone, it's helpful to be aware of what to expect, what symptoms to look out for, and how to make the process go more smoothly. Patience is key, and if problems persist, it's critical to consult your optometrist. With the right approach, you'll soon be able to see clearly and comfortably through your new lenses.

We invite you to experience personalized care and exceptional service at Casey Optical Too, where our dedicated team is committed to providing top-notch vision care for the Albuquerque community. Don’t wait any longer—schedule an appointment with our esteemed optometrists and embark on a journey to a more precise, healthier vision today.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: When it comes to progressive lenses, how long does it take to get used to them?

When it comes to progressive lenses, the adjustment period typically lasts between two and three weeks. However, some people may adjust more rapidly, while others might take a bit longer.

Q: What should I do if my new glasses give me headaches?

A: Mild headaches are common during the adjustment period. Make sure your glasses are comfortable to wear, and let your eyes rest at regular intervals. A visit to your optometrist should be made if headaches continue for more than two weeks.

Q: During the period of adjustment, is it safe for me to drive while wearing my new glasses?

In particular, if you are feeling dizziness or distorted vision, it is recommended that you refrain from driving until you have reached a point where you are comfortable with your new spectacles.

Q: Is it normal to feel nauseous with new glasses?

A: Yes, some people experience nausea, particularly with multifocal lenses. It should become less noticeable within a couple of weeks. If it doesn't, visit your optometrist.

Q: The adjustment period can be sped up, but how can I do that?

A: To assist your eyes in adjusting to the new glasses more quickly, you should gradually increase the amount of time that you spend wearing them each day, refrain from switching back to your old glasses, and engage in eye exercises.

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