It’s a strange feeling. You’ve gone through the process of getting new prescription glasses, you’re excited to see the world with clarity, but instead, you feel a bit dizzy.
Sometimes, vision problems can cause headaches or a sense that your eyes are straining to work together. This sensation can be disorienting, and it might make you wonder if something is wrong with your new eyewear.
This feeling is actually common, and it doesn’t usually mean there’s a problem with your prescription. Your brain and eyes simply need time to adjust to a new way of processing visual information. This recalibration period is normal, and for most people, the discomfort is temporary.
What Causes That Off-Balance Feeling?
When you get a new pair of glasses, several factors can contribute to temporary discomfort or that cross-eyed sensation. Your eyes and brain are a powerful team, but they need time to recalibrate to the visual data they receive through your new lenses.
A New or Changed Prescription
A significant change in prescription strength is a common cause of short-term vision discomfort. The sharper images provided by your new glasses may cause your brain to work harder until it gets used to your clearer vision.
Different Lens Designs & Materials
A switch to a different type of corrective lenses can also affect how you see. Specifically, moving to a progressive lens, a high-index material, or a lens with a new curvature can alter your peripheral vision and depth perception. This change is often for the better, but it requires an adjustment period for your brain to accept.
Adjusting to a Correction for Astigmatism
If your new prescription is the first time that your vision has been corrected for astigmatism, you might find that the world might look a bit different. Straight lines may appear curved, or the floor may seem closer or farther than it actually is. This visual distortion is temporary as your brain and eyes adapt to your new lenses.
When Measurements & Fit Are the Problem
Sometimes, the issue isn’t just about your prescription, but about how your glasses are made and how they sit on your face. Precise measurements are key to comfortable vision, and even small errors can lead to noticeable discomfort. Your frames should feel like a natural extension of your sight.
Incorrect Pupillary Distance
Your pupillary distance (PD) is the measurement between the centers of your pupils, and it’s a critical part of the comprehensive eye exam process. The optical center of each lens should align perfectly with your PD for clear, comfortable vision. If this measurement is off, it can cause eye strain, headaches, and a feeling of being cross-eyed.
Poor Frame Fit & Alignment
A poor frame fit that is too loose, too tight, or sits crooked on your face can misalign the lenses. When your lenses aren’t in the right position, this forces your eyes to work harder to focus. This extra effort can quickly lead to fatigue and discomfort.
Tips for a Smoother Transition
While some adjustment time is normal, you can take steps to help your eyes and brain adapt more quickly to your new glasses. A little patience and consistency can make a big difference in how you feel. These simple strategies can help you settle into your new view of the world.
Wear Them Consistently
Try to wear your new glasses as much as possible, starting from the moment you wake up. Switching back and forth between your old pair and your new one can confuse your brain. This can prolong the adjustment period and make it harder to adapt.
Start with Short Periods
If the discomfort is strong, wearing your new glasses for just a couple of hours on the first day is a good start. You can gradually increase the wear time each day as you get more comfortable. This allows your brain to adapt at a more manageable pace without feeling overwhelmed.
Follow Your Optometrist’s Advice
Always follow your optometrist’s advice. Our team at our Solana Beach practice can provide specific instructions to help you shorten your adjustment time.
How to Know If Something Is Wrong
Most of the time, that odd feeling goes away within a few days to a couple of weeks. But if it doesn’t, then this might signal more than just a typical adjustment period. It’s important to pay attention to your symptoms and recognize when it’s time to check in.
Symptoms That Don’t Go Away
If you experience any of the following for more than a week or two, it’s a good idea to seek a professional opinion. Consistent discomfort is not something you should have to live with. Pay attention to any of the following symptoms:
- Persistent headaches
- Ongoing eye strain or fatigue
- Dizziness or a “swimmy” feeling that lasts more than a week
- One eye feels significantly blurrier than the other
- The cross-eyed sensation does not improve with consistent wear
How Long Is the Normal Adjustment Period?
For most people, it takes anywhere from a few days to two weeks to fully adapt to a new pair of glasses. The exact timeline can depend on the prescription change and the type of lenses. If your symptoms continue past this point, it’s a good idea to have your glasses and prescription reviewed.
When to Schedule a Follow-Up Visit
If you’ve given it time and your vision still doesn’t feel right, don’t hesitate to seek help. You should feel comfortable and confident in your new glasses. A quick visit can often identify the problem and get you seeing comfortably.
Get Your Glasses Checked First
The first step is to have the professional who made your glasses verify the prescription was filled correctly. They can also check that all measurements—like the PD and lens positioning—are accurate. Sometimes a small adjustment is all that’s needed.
Consult Your Local Eye Care Team
If the glasses were made correctly but your discomfort continues, it may be time for a prescription re-check. Your optometrist can help you determine if any adjustments are needed to your prescription.
Your vision is our priority at Total Vision Solana Beach. If you’re struggling with your new glasses or have any concerns about your eye health, we’re here to help. Contact us to schedule an appointment with our team today.
