Why Does My Head Hurt When I Wear Sunglasses?
Have you ever worn sunglasses only to find yourself developing a headache? It’s more common than you think. There are several reasons this might happen, ranging from an improper fit to issues with the lenses themselves. Identifying the cause can help you prevent discomfort and enjoy your time outdoors without any unpleasant side effects. Let’s explore why sunglasses might trigger headaches and how you can prevent them.
Relationship Between Headaches and Sunglasses
Headaches from sunglasses often arise due to the quality of the lenses. If the lenses aren’t of good optical quality or don’t provide adequate UV protection, your eyes can become strained. Poor lens performance may fail to block glare or harmful rays, leading to eye discomfort and migraines. Sunglasses with polarized lenses can help reduce glare and make your outdoor experience much more comfortable.
Additionally, an improper fit can cause physical discomfort. Sunglasses that are too tight or press too much on the nose or temples may lead to tension headaches. Frames that don’t fit well can allow light leaks, which increases light sensitivity and can contribute to headaches, especially for those with existing eye conditions like astigmatism or cataracts.
Having a proper eye exam is a key step in preventing headaches. If you need prescription sunglasses, wearing the wrong prescription could strain your eyes, causing discomfort and headaches. Your optometrist can ensure you have the right prescription and help you find sunglasses that fit properly, reducing the likelihood of headaches.
Common Causes of Head Pain
When it comes to headaches caused by sunglasses, several factors may be at play. Tension headaches, migraines, and eyestrain (also called asthenopia) are the most common culprits. Poorly fitted sunglasses, especially those with incorrect lens categories, can contribute to light leaks, increasing glare and light sensitivity. This added strain can lead to headaches.
Environmental factors, like prolonged sun exposure, can also lead to discomfort if your sunglasses don’t effectively block light or reduce glare. Lifestyle factors, such as spending long hours in front of screens without proper eyewear, can worsen symptoms. For those who need prescription glasses, wearing sunglasses without the correct prescription can further strain the eyes, adding to the discomfort.
Regular eye check-ups can help identify underlying issues, such as refractive errors, that might make wearing sunglasses uncomfortable. Adjusting the frame fit or lens curvature can also improve comfort and reduce headaches.
Lens Quality and Headaches
Poor-quality lenses are one of the leading causes of headaches from sunglasses. If the lenses do not provide adequate UV protection, they allow harmful UV rays to reach your eyes, which can cause light sensitivity, migraines, and eyestrain. Polarized lenses can be particularly helpful in reducing glare and providing comfort for those who work around reflective surfaces or spend a lot of time outdoors.
Individuals with refractive errors who wear non-prescription sunglasses may also experience discomfort if the sunglasses don’t match their vision needs. If the sunglasses have a flat frame or are not snug enough, light leaks from the sides can cause additional strain. Wraparound sunglasses can provide better coverage and help block light from multiple angles.
It’s essential to consult with an eye doctor to ensure your lenses are of high optical quality and fit your specific needs. They can help you select the right lens coatings and sunglasses that protect your eyes and prevent headaches.
Frame Pressure and Discomfort
Another common reason for headaches is the physical pressure that sunglasses can exert. Poorly fitting frames that are too tight on the temples or nose bridge can lead to tension headaches or migraines. This discomfort is often caused by frames that lack adjustable nose pads or ear rests, which allow for a better fit.
To reduce pressure points, opt for sunglasses with adjustable features or flexible frames that mold to your face shape. Wraparound styles can also help reduce light leaks that exacerbate light sensitivity. Polarized lenses can further enhance comfort by reducing glare.
For those who spend a lot of time in front of screens, wearing sunglasses that are not suited for digital device use can worsen digital eyestrain, leading to headaches. Consulting an eye doctor for a personalized recommendation is a good step towards minimizing discomfort.
Incorrect Prescription in Sunglasses
Headaches can also arise from wearing sunglasses with an incorrect prescription. Symptoms such as eyestrain, migraines, and light sensitivity are common indicators that your prescription may be off. These issues are exacerbated by frames that don’t fit properly, allowing light leaks or creating too much pressure.
If you suspect your sunglasses prescription is incorrect, pay attention to whether your headaches worsen when using screens or being outdoors in bright light. This can indicate that your sunglasses aren’t providing the necessary UV protection or optical clarity. A visit to the optometrist can resolve the issue by ensuring the correct prescription and frame fit.
Sensitivity to Light and Symptoms
Many individuals who are sensitive to light, or who suffer from conditions like photophobia, may find that wearing sunglasses actually increases their discomfort. In some cases, sunglasses that don’t fit properly or that use incorrect lenses can contribute to headaches.
Wraparound sunglasses can help block more light and reduce sensitivity, while polarized lenses can decrease glare. However, people with existing eye conditions might need a specific type of sunglasses, and a consultation with an eye care professional is often necessary to find the best solution.
Effects of Poorly Fitting Sunglasses
Nose Pad Placement: Improper nose pad placement can increase pressure on the bridge of the nose, leading to headaches. Ensuring that the pads are adjustable and positioned correctly can help alleviate discomfort.
Ear Comfort and Fit: Similarly, ear rests that are too tight can put pressure on the temples, causing headaches. Opt for sunglasses with flexible frames or adjustable ear rests to distribute the weight more evenly and reduce tension.
Treatment Options for Sunglass-Related Headaches
If you consistently experience headaches when wearing sunglasses, visiting an eye care professional is a good first step. They can conduct a comprehensive eye exam to identify any underlying eye conditions, refractive errors, or light sensitivity that might be causing your headaches.
Switching to polarized lenses can help reduce glare, while ensuring the correct fit of your sunglasses—adjusting nose pads and ear rests—can enhance comfort and minimize pressure points. Wraparound sunglasses that block UV rays from all angles are a great option for reducing headaches caused by light sensitivity.
Preventing Headaches While Wearing Sunglasses
To prevent headaches, ensure that your sunglasses fit properly and offer adequate UV protection. Sunglasses with adjustable nose pads and flexible ear rests can reduce pressure points and provide a better fit. High-quality lenses, especially polarized ones, are key to reducing glare and enhancing visual comfort.
It’s also important to take regular breaks from screen time and ensure that your prescription is accurate, especially if you wear prescription sunglasses. Light sensitivity and eyestrain can be managed with the right pair of sunglasses, and a comprehensive eye exam will help narrow down the best solution for your needs.
Conclusion
Headaches from sunglasses are common, but they can be prevented by choosing the right lenses and frames. Ensuring a proper fit, high-quality UV protection, and an accurate prescription are all important factors in reducing discomfort. If headaches persist, consulting an eye care professional can help resolve any underlying issues and provide long-term relief. Choose sunglasses at Optics Town, we can help you design your own sunglasses, which can smartly avoid headaches from improper size.
