Getting a new pair of glasses can be an exciting experience. However, adjusting to them can sometimes be a challenge. Whether you’re a first-time glasses wearer or you’ve just switched to a new prescription, it’s normal to need some time to adapt. Here are some tips to help you adjust to your new glasses.
Image from freepik
1.Understanding the Adjustment Period
In most cases, it takes only a few days to adjust to a new pair of prescription eyeglasses. However, for some people, the adjustment period can take up to two weeks. During this time, you may experience issues with distortion, depth perception, eye strain, headaches, and nausea. These symptoms are common with new glasses and typically last only a few days.
2.Wear Your Glasses Regularly
The best way to help your eyes adjust to your new glasses is to wear them as much as you can each day134. Put your new glasses on as soon as you wake up, and wear them as much as you can each day134. Don’t go back and forth with your old glasses, even if your old pair is more comfortable. The switching will only make it harder for you to adjust to your new specs, and that will make the process take longer.
3.Clean Your Glasses Regularly
Keeping your glasses clean can also help you adjust to them more quickly3. Dirty lenses can cause your vision to be blurry, which can make it harder for your eyes to adjust to your new glasses.
4.Seek Professional Help If Needed
If you experience eye strain, distorted vision, and especially headaches for more than two or three days, contact your eye doctor or optician12. They may want to have you come in to take another look at your eyes, confirm that your glasses were made correctly, or even recheck that your eyeglass prescription is right for you.
5.Adjusting to a New Prescription
If you’ve just switched to a new prescription, your brain needs time to adjust to the new way of seeing. This is especially true if you’ve switched from single vision lenses to bifocals or progressive lenses. During this adjustment period, try to avoid activities that require precise depth perception, such as driving or playing sports.
6.Dealing with Distortion
New glasses can sometimes cause distortion, making straight lines appear curved or slanted. This is particularly common with new high-index or progressive lenses. To help your eyes adjust, try moving your eyes instead of your head when looking to the side. This can help train your eyes to adapt to the new lenses.
7.Coping with Dizziness and Nausea
Some people may experience dizziness or nausea when they first start wearing new glasses. This is usually due to the brain adjusting to the new visual signals it’s receiving. If you’re feeling dizzy, take a break from wearing your glasses and rest your eyes. If the dizziness persists, consult your optician.
8.Adjusting to New Frames
If you’ve switched to a different frame style, you may need to adjust to the new fit and feel. Different frames can sit differently on your nose and ears, and it can take some time to get used to this. If the frames are causing discomfort, consider having them professionally adjusted.
In conclusion, adjusting to new glasses involves both your eyes and brain getting used to a new way of seeing, you’ll soon be seeing clearly and comfortably with your new specs. It’s a process that requires patience, but with time, your vision will feel as natural as it did before. Remember, it’s normal to need some time to adjust, so don’t be discouraged if your new glasses feel a bit strange at first. If you’re experiencing persistent issues with your new glasses, don’t hesitate to consult your optician.
