Can an Improper Contact Lens Fit Cause Eye Strain & Headaches?

Contact lenses are a convenient alternative to glasses, offering clear vision without frames in the way. However, if your lenses aren’t fitted correctly, you may notice uncomfortable symptoms like eye strain or even headaches. Understanding why this happens and how to prevent it can help protect your vision and overall eye health.

How Contact Lens Fit Affects Your Eyes

Your eyes are unique, and contact lenses need to match the size, shape, and curvature of your cornea. When lenses don’t fit properly, a variety of issues can develop that affect both comfort and vision.

One common problem is uneven pressure on the eye. If a lens is too tight or too loose, it can create friction or fail to center correctly, which often leads to irritation and discomfort.

Another issue is blurred or fluctuating vision. Poorly fitted lenses may shift out of place as you blink or move your eyes, causing your vision to fluctuate and forcing your eyes to work harder to focus.

Finally, an improperly fitted lens can reduce oxygen flow to the cornea. When a lens is too tight, it restricts the amount of oxygen reaching the surface of the eye, which can lead to irritation, fatigue, and potential long-term complications if left unaddressed.

Why Improper Lens Fit Can Lead to Eye Strain and Headaches

When your eyes are strained, your brain works overtime to compensate for the blurred or unstable vision. This can trigger symptoms such as:

• Eye Fatigue: Your eyes constantly try to adjust, leading to soreness or tiredness.

• Headaches: Eye strain often radiates to the forehead and temples, causing tension headaches.

• Light Sensitivity: Discomfort may make your eyes more reactive to bright light.

Over time, these symptoms can worsen if the underlying lens fit issue isn’t addressed.

Signs You Might Need a Contact Lens Exam and Fitting

If you experience any of the following while wearing your contacts, it may be time for a professional evaluation:

• Frequent headaches after prolonged lens wear

• Persistent eye strain or fatigue

• Redness, dryness, or irritation

• Blurred or fluctuating vision

These issues can often be resolved with a new lens prescription or a different lens material better suited to your eyes. Regular contact lens exams are essential to ensure your lenses fit correctly and your eyes stay healthy. At Northgate Vision Associates, our team performs detailed measurements and evaluations to provide lenses that offer optimal comfort and clarity.

Schedule Your Contact Lens Exam Today

An improper contact lens fit isn’t just uncomfortable - it can impact your vision and overall well-being. If you’ve been experiencing eye strain or headaches, it may be time for a professional contact lens check.

Contact Northgate Vision Associates to schedule your contact lens exam and ensure your lenses are the right fit for you. Visit our office in Hixson, Tennessee, or call (423) 693-2020 to book an appointment today.