Sometimes, while you’re wearing your contacts, you might notice a nagging headache. This is a common experience, and there often is a direct link between your contact lenses and head pain. Understanding the causes of your discomfort can help you find comfort and determine where to get an eye exam for professional advice.
There are several ways that contact lenses can contribute to headaches, from an outdated prescription to an improper fit. Since eyeglass and contact prescriptions expire, regular check-ups are important. Getting to the root cause is the first step toward enjoying clear and comfortable vision again.
How an Incorrect Prescription Can Lead to Headaches
When your contact lens prescription isn’t right, your eyes have to work overtime to focus. This extra effort is a frequent cause of headaches associated with digital eye strain. You might not even notice that your vision is off, but your brain certainly feels the effects of its constant struggle to see clearly.
Signs of Eye Strain
Eye strain often appears after you focus on a task for a long time. If you’ve been using a screen, then you likely have computer vision syndrome.
Pay attention to signs like these:
- A dull ache around your eyes or forehead
- Blurry vision that comes & goes
- Difficulty with focus during tasks
- A feeling of tired or sore eyes
The Importance of a Custom Fit & Lens Type
Contact lenses need to match the shape of your eye if you want them to work correctly. A lens that doesn’t fit well can move around, feel uncomfortable, or even block oxygen flow—all of which can contribute to headaches. A proper fitting helps make sure your lenses are sitting where they should.
Astigmatism & Lens Position
If you have astigmatism, you may need specialty lenses called toric contacts. These lenses have to stay fixed in one position to keep your vision sharp. If they shift, your vision may become blurry.
Blurry vision, in turn, causes your eyes to constantly refocus, leading to constant extra work that can lead to eye strain and headaches.
A well-fitted toric lens is designed to stay in place on your eye.
Vision Changes & Presbyopia
As people enter their 40s, they often find it harder to focus on objects up close. This condition, known as presbyopia, is a natural part of aging. As presbyopia develops, your old contact lens prescription may no longer work well for reading or computer tasks.
Struggling to see your phone or book can cause you to squint and strain your eyes. This consistent effort is a recipe for a headache. Multifocal contact lenses are one way to help with this change.
Other Symptoms Linked to Contact Lenses
A headache might not be the only sign that something is off with your contacts. Pay attention to other signals from your eyes. Different symptoms can point to issues like a poor fit, an incorrect prescription, or another underlying issue.
If you experience any symptoms, it’s a good idea to remove your contacts and wear your glasses for a while. Note when and how often symptoms occur. These details can help your optometrist identify the problem.
- Red, irritated eyes
- Sudden light sensitivity
- Watery eyes or discharge
- Worsening pain in or around the eye
- Sudden blurry vision
How to Find Relief from Contact-Related Headaches
You can take simple, direct steps to address headaches caused by your contact lenses. The goal is to figure out the cause and find a comfortable solution. These actions can help you narrow down the possibilities and get closer to relief.
Start by observing your routine and how your body responds. A little investigation on your own can provide helpful information. Then, you can take that information to your next appointment.
- Remove Your Contacts: Switch to your glasses for a while. If your headache goes away, it’s a strong sign your contacts are the source of the problem.
- Review Your Environment: Note whether your headaches appear during specific activities—like long hours at a computer—where lighting and screen distance also play a role.
- Schedule an Eye Exam: An updated prescription and professional fitting are the most effective ways to resolve contact lens issues. Learning what to do before an eye exam can help you get the most out of your visit and find lasting comfort.
Your Path to Comfortable Vision
Getting to the bottom of contact lens headaches often requires professional guidance. Regular eye exams are key to maintaining clear vision and healthy eyes. They allow for small adjustments that can prevent big problems down the road.
You don’t have to choose between clear vision and being comfortable. With the right approach, you can have both.
Work with an Eye Care Professional
Scheduling a check-up with your optometrist is the right way to get a diagnosis. They can check for changes in your vision and explore different contact lens brands that may be a better match for your eyes.
Our team in Laguna Niguel can measure your prescription precisely and check that your lenses fit your eyes correctly. This personalized approach addresses the specific reasons for your discomfort. It’s a direct path to finding a solution that works for you.
The Value of a Follow-Up Visit
After you get new contacts, a follow-up appointment confirms that the fit and prescription are right for you. This is an opportunity to discuss how the new lenses feel during your daily activities. This conversation is an important part of the process.
This visit helps fine-tune your contact lens experience. It’s a simple step to help you enjoy clear, headache-free vision. Your comfort is the main goal.
Get Your Updated Prescription Today
If you’re tired of headaches getting in the way of your life, it may be time to look at your contact lenses. An updated prescription and a proper fit can make all the difference. Your eyes deserve to feel as good as they see.
Our team at Dr. Henslick Vision Center is here to help your whole family see clearly and comfortably. We invite you to schedule an appointment with us. Let’s work together to find a solution for your contact lens discomfort.
