Why Varifocal Glasses Cause Headaches

If you’re one of the many people who experience headaches when wearing varifocal glasses, don’t worry you’re not alone. Varifocal glasses are a type of multifocal lens that can cause headaches and eye strain for some wearers. But why is that?

In this blog post, we'll take a closer look at why varifocal glasses cause headaches and what you can do about it. So, grab your glasses (or take them off, if they're causing you pain) and let's get started!

What Are Varifocal Glasses?

Before we dive into the reasons why varifocal glasses cause headaches, let's first define what they are. Varifocal glasses, also known as progressive lenses, are lenses that have a gradual change in prescription from the top to the bottom of the lens. They are designed to help people see clearly at all distances, without the need for multiple pairs of glasses.

Why Do Varifocal Glasses Cause Headaches?

Now that we know what varifocal glasses are, let's explore why they can cause headaches for some wearers.

1. Adjusting to the lenses: When you first start wearing varifocal glasses, your eyes and brain need to adjust to the new type of lens. This adjustment period can cause headaches and eye strain, as your eyes work to adapt to the changes in prescription.

2. Eye movements: Varifocal glasses require you to move your eyes up and down to see clearly at different distances. This constant movement can cause eye fatigue and headaches, especially if you're not used to it.

3. Lens distortion: Varifocal lenses can cause distortion, especially in the peripheral areas of the lens. This distortion can cause headaches and dizziness for some wearers.

4. Incorrect fitting: If your varifocal glasses are not fitted correctly, they can cause headaches and eye strain. This is because the lenses need to be positioned correctly for your eyes to focus properly.

How to Reduce Headaches When Wearing Varifocal Glasses

If you're experiencing headaches when wearing varifocal glasses, there are a few things you can do to reduce the pain and discomfort.

1. Give yourself time to adjust: As we mentioned earlier, it can take time for your eyes and brain to adjust to varifocal glasses. Give yourself a few days to get used to the new lenses before deciding whether they're causing you headaches.

2. Practice good posture: When wearing varifocal glasses, it's important to maintain good posture. This means keeping your head and neck straight and avoiding slouching, which can cause additional strain on your eyes and lead to headaches.

3. Make sure your glasses are fitted correctly: If your varifocal glasses are not fitted correctly, they can cause headaches and eye strain. Make sure to have them fitted by a professional, and don't hesitate to ask for adjustments if needed.

4. Take frequent breaks: If you're experiencing headaches or eye strain when wearing varifocal glasses, try taking frequent breaks throughout the day. This can help reduce eye fatigue and prevent headaches.

5. Consider other options: If you've tried everything and you're still experiencing headaches when wearing varifocal glasses, it might be time to consider other options. Talk to your eye doctor about alternative lenses, such as single vision or bifocal glasses, that might be better suited to your needs.

How long does it take to adjust to varifocals?

The adjustment period for varifocal glasses can vary from person to person, but on average, it takes 2-3 weeks for your eyes and brain to adapt to the new lenses. During this time you may experience some initial discomfort such as headaches and dizziness, as your eyes get adjusted to the new lenses.

It's important to keep wearing your glasses regularly during this adjustment period, as taking them off frequently can prolong the adaptation process. If you are still facing discomfort after a few weeks, it’s a good idea to talk to your optometrist about potential solutions.

Final Words

In conclusion, varifocal glasses can cause headaches and eye strain for some wearers, but there are ways to reduce the pain and discomfort. And remember, if you're experiencing persistent headaches or eye pain, it's always best to consult with your eye doctor.

At Specscart, we only make the highest quality tailor-made platinum varifocal lenses. They have the widest vision field with minimum distortion, for the best optical experience. It has a seamless transition between the three parts, starting from Distance at the top, to Intermediate and ending with Reading.

So, go forth and give varifocal lenses a try and see the difference for yourself!