Can New Glasses Cause Ocular Migraines?

Do you find yourself getting headaches and migraines ever since you got new glasses?

Unfortunately, this is pretty common. Whether you have been wearing glasses since childhood, or you’re only getting glasses now, it’s common for a lot of people to get headaches in the beginning. But can new glasses cause ocular migraines?

The reason new glasses can cause headaches is most commonly due to eyestrain. It can take some time for your eyes to adjust to the new glasses. And, for those who are prone to migraines, the headaches due to eyestrain can trigger a migraine.

Here are some of the reasons why your new glasses might trigger an ocular migraine:

Muscle strain

This usually happens when the muscles in your eyes work harder or differently than they did before. When this happens, it may cause a migraine or a headache. It usually happens to those wearing glasses for the first time. And it can also happen for those whose prescription changed significantly.

Multiple Lenses

You may also experience migraines if your lenses are changed, especially for the first time. Sometimes, your lenses can be changed to bifocals, trifocals or progressives. Different types of lenses are used to correct multiple eyesight issues such as nearsightedness and farsightedness. If this is the cause of a headache, it usually goes away. You just needs some time to get used to it.

Frames not fitted correctly

If your frames are not fitted properly, then it might also cause a headache. This is because the frame can put pressure behind your ears. If this is the cause of your migraine, it’s best to get your frame refitted.

Wrong prescription

Last but not least, the wrong prescription can also cause migraines. This is why it is important to get the accurate information during your eye exam. Whenever you change your prescription glasses, it is always better to go through the eye exam again.

When There May Be a More Serious Issue

Usually, ocular migraines that are caused by your new glasses can disappear within a few days. However, if it doesn’t, you may need to get your eyes retested. Especially if you experience dizziness or other worrying symptoms.

To avoid getting ocular migraines from your new glasses, here are a few tips:

Do not go back to your old glasses – while your old glasses may be more comfortable for your eyes, it will only make things harder. It will be more difficult for your eyes to get used to your new glasses, thus, prolonging the headache.
Give it time – give your eyes time to adjust to your new prescription. To do this, it is better to wear your new glasses often.
Rest your eyes – glasses or no glasses, giving your eyes some rest throughout the day helps prevent ocular migraines.

So, yes, new glasses can cause migraines. Or, at least trigger them if you are prone to migraines.

As to ocular migraines, specifically, there is no strong evidence that they are caused by new glasses. To be fair, eye experts still are not sure what the exact causes of ocular migraines are. However, new glasses are not on the list of suspects.