It’s common to feel a little unsteady when you first put on a new pair of eyeglasses. This sensation of dizziness or imbalance happens as your eyes and brain get used to a new way of seeing the world. We’ll explore why this occurs and what you can do to make the transition smoother.
New glasses can make you feel dizzy, but this feeling is almost always temporary. It’s a normal part of the adjustment period as your brain adapts to crisper, clearer vision. Nonetheless, the length of your adjustment period may vary based on factors like whether you’re wearing single-vision lenses or bifocal and progressive lenses.
If dizziness does persist, make sure to book an eye exam. We can check your prescription and confirm that everything is working as intended.
Why Your New Glasses Might Cause Dizziness
Several factors can contribute to the dizzy sensation that often comes with new eyewear. Most of the time, this is just a standard part of your visual system’s adjustment process. Your body is simply learning to adapt.
Your Brain & Eyes Need Time to Adjust
Your brain is accustomed to your old prescription or no prescription at all. New lenses change the information your brain receives from your eyes, and it needs time to recalibrate.
A Change in Your Prescription
Even a small change in your prescription requires an adjustment period. If your vision has changed significantly since your last eye exam, the differences can feel more dramatic. This is your brain working to sync up with the new, sharper details provided by your lenses.
A New Frame Style or Lens Type
Switching to a different frame style can alter your peripheral vision. Moving to a different type of lens, like Neurolens (for eye misalignment), also means that your eyes will need to learn to focus with your new eyewear in mind. These changes can temporarily affect your spatial awareness.
Symptoms of an Incorrect Prescription
While an adjustment period is normal, some symptoms could point to an issue with your prescription. If you experience persistent discomfort, it’s helpful to pay attention to how you feel. Knowing the difference between adaptation and a potential problem can give you peace of mind, as comprehensive exams are crucial for your overall health.
Common Signs to Watch For
There may be an issue with your prescription if symptoms do not improve after a couple of weeks. Look out for ongoing issues that interfere with your daily life. These can include:
- Headaches that don’t go away with time
- Noticeable digital eye strain or a feeling of fatigue
- Dizziness that lasts more than a few days of consistent wear
- Objects that continue to look blurry or distorted
- A “fishbowl” effect where the edges of your vision look bent or curved
How Long Should Dizziness from New Glasses Last?
The good news is that, for most people, dizziness or disorientation caused by new lenses is temporary. Knowing what to expect can help you determine if your adjustment period is on track. A little patience often goes a long way.
The Typical Adjustment Period
Most people feel comfortable with their new glasses within a few days. For others, especially those with a large prescription change due to issues like worsening nearsightedness or a new lens type, the process can take up to two weeks. This allows your brain and eyes to fully adapt to seeing more clearly.
When You Should Follow Up
If you still feel dizzy or have headaches after two weeks of wearing your new glasses consistently, it may be a good idea to schedule a follow-up visit.
What to Do if Your Glasses Make You Dizzy
With a few simple steps, you help your eyes and brain adapt to your new glasses more smoothly. Here’s what to do:
Wear Your Glasses Consistently
Try to wear your new glasses as much as possible throughout the day. This gives your brain the steady visual input it needs to adjust more quickly. Putting your glasses on first thing in the morning is a great way to start the process.
Avoid Your Old Glasses
It can be tempting to go back to your old, comfortable pair when you feel off-balance. However, switching between your old and new prescription can confuse your eyes. This can make the adjustment period longer and more difficult.
Take Short Breaks
If you start to feel overwhelmed or strained, or if you’re experiencing sensitivity to light, it’s okay to take your glasses off for a few minutes. You can also practice the 20-20-20 rule to rest your eyes in a dimly lit room for a break. Just remember to put your new glasses back on so you can continue the adjustment process.
When to Visit Your Eye Doctor in Carlsbad
If your symptoms don’t improve or if you feel like something still isn’t right, professional guidance can help. Your eye doctor can figure out the next steps to get you seeing clearly and comfortably. You don’t have to navigate the adjustment period alone.
Persistent Symptoms & Concerns
If dizziness, blurry vision, or headaches continue beyond the two-week mark, let your eye care professional know. An eye exam can help identify the cause of the discomfort you’re feeling. Communicating your concerns is the first step toward a solution.
The Importance of a Professional Eye Exam
As your eye doctor in Carlsbad, we can recheck your prescription to confirm its accuracy. We can also inspect the fit of your frames to see if an adjustment to the nose pads or arms could make a difference.
At Total Vision Carlsbad Plaza, we are dedicated to helping you see your world clearly and comfortably. If you’re experiencing prolonged dizziness or other issues with your new glasses, our team is here to help. Contact us to schedule an appointment today.
