Can Wrong Eye Prescription Cause Headaches?

Yes, wearing the wrong eyeglass prescription or an outdated prescription can cause headaches and eye strain. When your glasses or contact lenses no longer provide the correct vision correction, it can lead to several discomforts, including headaches, eye strain, blurred vision, and even dizziness.

The eyes’ ability to focus and see clearly depends on the accuracy of the prescription. If your prescription is incorrect or outdated, your eyes have to work harder to compensate for the blurry vision caused by the incorrect lenses. This extra effort can lead to eye strain, fatigue, and tension headaches, particularly after extended periods of reading, computer use, or other activities that require clear vision.

Additionally, wearing glasses or contacts with an improper prescription can disrupt the natural balance of your eyes, causing discomfort and headaches as your eyes attempt to adjust to the incorrect vision correction.

If you experience persistent headaches or eye strain while wearing glasses or contacts, it’s essential to schedule an eye examination with an optometrist or ophthalmologist. They can assess your vision, update your prescription if necessary, and ensure that your eyewear is accurately correcting your vision, thereby relieving the strain on your eyes and reducing the likelihood of headaches caused by incorrect prescriptions.