Getting a new pair of glasses can be exciting, but sometimes the lenses end up feeling off. If your new eyewear seems to cause more problems than it solves, the prescription might be too strong for your needs.
Your eyes work hard to focus, and an incorrect prescription makes them work overtime. Wearing glasses with a prescription that is too strong can cause discomfort like headaches, eyestrain, and dizziness by forcing your eyes to work too hard. These common symptoms are a sign that your eyes are overcorrecting, which can leave you feeling fatigued and your vision less clear than you expected.
In many cases, eyestrain and headaches are your body’s way of telling you that something isn’t quite right.
How to Tell If Your Glasses Prescription Is Wrong
When you first wear new glasses, there’s often a short adjustment period. Your brain and eyes need time to get used to the new view. However, if symptoms continue for more than a few days, this could be a sign that your prescription needs another look.
Physical Symptoms You Might Notice
- Headaches
- Eye strain or tired eyes
- Dizziness or a feeling of being off-balance
- Nausea
Vision-Related Signs
- Blurry vision at certain distances
- Objects that appear warped or curved
- Difficulty with depth perception
- Double vision
Short-Term Effects of a Prescription That’s Too Strong
Wearing glasses with a prescription that is too powerful can cause immediate discomfort. This is because your eyes and brain try to compensate, which can be quite tiring over the course of a day.
The Discomfort of Eyestrain & Headaches
Eyestrain happens when your eye muscles are overworked. This can lead to fatigue and frequent headaches—especially around your temples or behind your eyes.
Dizziness & Nausea
When your prescription is wrong, your brain may receive conflicting information from your eyes. This mismatch between what you see and what your brain expects can create a sense of vertigo or dizziness.
Potential Effects on Your Eyes Over Time
For Adults: Persistent Discomfort
In adults, wearing the wrong prescription is unlikely to cause permanent harm. It will, however, lead to ongoing eyestrain, headaches, and general discomfort. These symptoms can affect your daily activities and impact your quality of life, so it’s best to try to get the issue resolved.
For Children: A Note on Visual Development
A child’s visual system is still growing. A consistently incorrect prescription may interfere with the development of their vision. Regular children’s eye exams allow your optometrist to stay on top of any changes.
What About a Prescription That’s Too Weak?
You might wonder if one type of incorrect prescription is better than the other. Ultimately, any prescription that isn’t accurate will prevent you from seeing clearly and comfortably. The goal is always a prescription that feels right.
The Problem with a Weak Prescription
A prescription that’s too weak won’t fully correct your vision. This often results in squinting to see clearly, which causes its own eyestrain and headaches. You’ll likely still struggle with blurry vision at different distances.
Why the Right Prescription Matters
An accurate prescription, as determined through a comprehensive eye exam, should provide clear vision without forcing your eyes to work too hard. A proper prescription supports your visual health and helps you go about your day with comfort and clarity. This balance is key to healthy sight.
What to Do If You Suspect Your Glasses Are Too Strong
If your new glasses just don’t feel right, it’s a good idea to take action. Here’s what to try.
Allow for an Adjustment Period
Give yourself up to one week to adapt to a new prescription. Some initial dizziness or a “fishbowl” effect can be normal. After all, your brain is getting used to a whole new way of seeing the world.
Schedule a Follow-Up Appointment
If symptoms like headaches or blurred vision persist, it’s time to schedule a follow-up appointment. Your eye care provider can re-check your eyes and the glasses to see if an adjustment is needed. A quick visit can often resolve the issue.
The Value of a Professional Eye Exam
Regular check-ups are key to maintaining your eye health and getting the right prescription. As your eye doctor in Richmond District, San Francisco, we can help you get the support you need.
At Total Vision Richmond, we’re here to help you see your world clearly and comfortably. If you have any concerns about your vision or it’s time for an exam, please reach out to schedule an appointment.
