If you have recently acquired a new pair of eyeglasses, you may feel eager about the idea of having improved eyesight. Nevertheless, it is important to note that adapting to your new glasses may not happen as swiftly as you anticipate, and it is normal to experience some discomfort during the process. However, there is no need to worry, as this is a common occurrence. In this article, we will examine what you can expect during the initial days and weeks of wearing your new glasses, providing tips on how to adjust to new glasses more easily and comfortably. So, let us begin and discover how to adapt to your new eyeglasses.
How Long Will It Take for My Eyes to Get Used to My New Glasses
In general, it typically takes about 3-4 days for your eyes to adjust to new glasses. Nonetheless, if you have a strong prescription, it might require a bit more time for your eyes to adjust. Conversely, if your prescription changes are minimal, the adaptation period could be shorter.
Some people may need a week or longer to adjust to new glasses, particularly if there has been a considerable change in their vision correction or if it is their initial experience with wearing glasses.
If you have been having trouble with your vision or feeling uncomfortable for more than a few weeks, it is advisable to make an appointment with
Symptoms of Adjusting to New Glasses
During the adjustment period, you may experience various symptoms. While these symptoms can vary among individuals, some common ones include:
Eye Strain
Experiencing strain or stress in your eyes is a common problem that arises when you first start using new glasses. This happens because your eyes are not yet used to adjusting and focusing on the new lenses. If you previously wore glasses with a different prescription, your eyes may have become accustomed to the shape and distance of those lenses.
To relieve eye fatigue, attempt to shut your eyes for a brief period every hour. Furthermore, taking breaks to gaze at objects in the distance can assist in relaxing and refocusing your eyes.
Luckily, this eye fatigue usually improves within a few days as your eyes adapt to the updated prescription.
Visual Distortion
Transitioning from wearing single-vision lenses to bifocal or progressive lenses can bring about significant adjustments. You may observe that objects may appear larger or smaller than their actual size, and lines may appear distorted or wavy.
Apart from acclimating to the varying corrections provided by the upper and lower parts of the lenses, you may also notice changes in your peripheral vision. Distorted vision, particularly while navigating stairs, driving, or walking, may occur.
If you encounter difficulties, try not only moving your eyes but also moving your entire head when looking at something. For example, fix your gaze on a distant point and turn your head to keep it in sight. This practice assists in training your brain to utilize the appropriate muscles for focusing.
Blurred Eyesight Or the Feeling of Seeing Through a Fishbowl
Your new prescription may not immediately result in clear vision, but instead, you might experience blurry vision or the fishbowl effect. The fishbowl effect is when your peripheral vision seems distorted, similar to how it would appear when looking through a fishbowl.
This effect can happen even without using a thinner, high-index lens, especially with a strong minus prescription. It is important to remember that your vision can change throughout the day due to factors like eye fatigue and lighting conditions, which can affect clarity.
Feeling Lightheaded and Experiencing an Upset Stomach
Experiencing dizziness or nausea when first putting on glasses is a common occurrence. This feeling typically occurs due to problems with judging distances, which can be similar to the symptoms of motion sickness.
When you put on newly prescribed glasses for the first time, your brain requires a period to adapt and comprehend the fresh visual information, leading to sensations of lightheadedness or confusion. If this happens, it is recommended to proceed with caution for a few days. Refrain from sudden motions and physically demanding tasks.
Providing your brain with breaks by periodically shutting your eyes can aid in reducing the symptoms and providing some rest. If the dizziness continues for more than approximately a week, it is advised to get in touch with your optometrist.
Headaches
Experiencing headaches shortly after obtaining a new pair of glasses is a commonly encountered situation, often attributed to the adjustment period one must undergo.
Adjust to the New Glasses period is required for both the eyes and the brain to get used to the new prescription. The eye muscles have grown accustomed to focusing in a particular manner in order to provide clear vision, and the introduction of new lenses alters this familiar pattern. Moreover, the brain must compensate for the change in the visual input it receives.
These necessary adjustments can contribute to experiencing headaches; however, they are expected to subside within a day or two as one becomes accustomed to their new glasses. On the off chance that the headaches persist after a few days, it is recommended to reach out to an eye doctor as there may be an underlying issue that requires further examination.
When Should I Contact My Eye Doctor?
If you continue to experience any of the previously mentioned symptoms even after wearing your new glasses for two weeks, it is recommended to contact your eye doctor. This is especially important since persistent symptoms could be a sign of an improper prescription or ill-fitting glasses.
By reaching out to your eye doctor, they will be able to analyze your situation and make sure that you have the correct prescription. Additionally, they can offer guidance on how to achieve clear and comfortable vision, ensuring that you adjust to new glasses well.
Tips for Adjusting to New Glasses
- Gradually Increase the Duration of Wear: To acclimate to wearing glasses, it is helpful to start with shorter periods and gradually increase the time you wear them. If you are new to wearing glasses, begin by wearing them for an hour or two on the first day. Then, add an additional hour each day until you feel comfortable wearing them throughout the entire day. Consistently wearing your new glasses will help your eyes and brain adjust to the new lenses. Avoid reverting to your old glasses, as this can impede the adjustment process.
- Exercise Your Eyes: If you experience eye strain, especially if you spend extended periods in front of a computer, practice the 20-20-20 rule. Every 20 minutes, look at an object far away for 20 seconds. This helps alleviate strain and gives your eyes a break from near-focused tasks. If you are wearing bifocals or progressive lenses for the first time, practice focusing on objects at different distances by looking down through your lenses. This exercise will aid in adapting to the varying focal points.
- Keep Your Lenses Clean: Dirty lenses not only affect your vision but can also irritate your eyes. Maintain clean glasses by regularly washing them with soap and water. You can also use a lens solution and a microfiber cloth to gently clean the lenses. Remember to wipe down the frames to remove any dirt, dust, or oil buildup.
Final Thoughts
Adjusting to new glasses requires some patience, but in most cases, any discomfort or vision issues should resolve within a few days. Keep in mind that both your eyes and your brain need time to adapt to the new prescription, and you can expect clearer vision without problems once the adjustment period is over.
If you find that you are still experiencing difficulties adjusting to your new glasses even after two weeks, it is advisable to reach out to your eye doctor. Professional assistance can verify if your lenses were crafted correctly and explore any other possible factors that may be impacting your vision or eye health. Ensuring that your glasses suit your needs and offer optimal comfort is crucial in maintaining good eye health and overall well-being. Don’t hesitate to seek help if you are struggling to adjust to new glasses.
