Getting a new pair of glasses is exciting, but feeling dizzy and nauseous afterward is definitely not. This unsettling side effect, often called "glasses vertigo," is surprisingly common, especially with significant prescription changes or new types of lenses. Don't worry, it's usually temporary, but understanding the causes and solutions can make a huge difference in your comfort and adjustment period.
Why Do New Glasses Cause Dizziness and Nausea?
The dizziness and nausea associated with new glasses stems from your brain needing time to adapt to the altered visual input. Your brain relies on a complex interplay of visual and vestibular (balance) systems. When your prescription changes significantly, or you switch to progressive lenses or bifocals, this balance is disrupted.
Here's a breakdown of potential culprits:
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Significant Prescription Change: A large jump in your prescription forces your eyes and brain to work harder to process the new visual information. This can lead to eye strain, headaches, and the unsettling feeling of dizziness or nausea.
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Progressive Lenses: These lenses offer multiple focal points within a single lens, making them convenient but initially challenging for your brain to adapt to. The constant refocusing needed can cause eye strain and disorientation.
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Bifocals: Similar to progressives, bifocals have distinct areas for distance and near vision. The abrupt shift between these areas can lead to discomfort and disorientation, especially in the beginning.
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Wrong Prescription: In rare cases, the problem might lie with an inaccurate prescription. This emphasizes the importance of a thorough eye exam by a qualified optometrist.
How Long Does It Take to Get Used to New Glasses?
The adjustment period varies greatly from person to person. Some individuals adjust within a few days, while others may need several weeks. Factors influencing the adaptation time include:
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Magnitude of Prescription Change: Larger changes generally require more time to adapt.
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Type of Lenses: Progressive lenses typically take longer to adjust to compared to single-vision lenses.
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Individual Sensitivity: Some people are simply more sensitive to visual changes than others.
Patience and persistence are key. Most people find the discomfort diminishes gradually as their brain recalibrates.
What Can I Do to Alleviate Dizziness and Nausea from New Glasses?
Several strategies can help ease the symptoms:
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Wear Your Glasses Gradually: Start by wearing your glasses for short periods each day, gradually increasing the duration as you become more comfortable.
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Focus on a Fixed Point: When feeling dizzy, focus your gaze on a stationary object to help ground yourself.
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Take Breaks: If you experience intense dizziness or nausea, take breaks from wearing your glasses.
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Blink Frequently: Dry eyes can exacerbate discomfort. Consciously blink frequently to keep your eyes lubricated.
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Avoid Driving or Operating Machinery: Until you've fully adjusted, avoid activities requiring sharp vision and precise coordination.
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Over-the-Counter Medication: If nausea is severe, over-the-counter anti-nausea medication may provide relief. Always follow the dosage instructions carefully.
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Return to Your Optometrist: If the dizziness and nausea persist or worsen after several weeks, schedule a follow-up appointment with your optometrist to rule out any issues with your prescription or lens type.
Are There Any Exercises to Help Adjust to New Glasses?
While there aren't specific "exercises" designed for glasses adaptation, focusing on eye relaxation techniques can be beneficial. Simple exercises like focusing on near and distant objects alternately, or gently rolling your eyes, can help reduce eye strain.
When Should I Be Concerned?
Persistent or worsening dizziness and nausea warrant a return visit to your optometrist. While adaptation is typically straightforward, severe or prolonged symptoms might indicate an issue requiring further evaluation.
How Can I Prevent Dizziness With New Glasses in the Future?
While complete prevention isn't guaranteed, you can minimize the risk by:
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Gradual Prescription Changes: If you need a significant prescription adjustment, discuss the possibility of making gradual changes with your optometrist.
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Lens Type Considerations: Carefully consider your lifestyle and visual needs when choosing lens types. If you're hesitant about progressive lenses, consider single-vision or bifocal lenses instead.
Remember, patience is crucial. The initial discomfort is usually temporary. By following these tips and staying in close communication with your optometrist, you'll be seeing clearly and feeling your best in no time.
