Getting eyeglasses for the first time can be exciting and sometimes nerve-wracking. However, you may have no choice if your eyes have a refractive error. It is ideal to start treatment using eyeglasses to correct any ocular conditions. Try glasses out before moving on to contact lenses or refractive eye surgery.

The apprehension of getting eyeglasses for the first time may stem from not knowing what to expect. Thus, here is a step-by-step guide on what the process will entail. 

 

The Exam

Various types of refractive errors will require you to wear eyeglasses. They include myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism. The issue may also be as simple as needing eyeglasses for reading or driving as you age.

When you go to the eye doctor, they will use different tests to check your vision. They may also conduct a comprehensive exam to establish whether the issue is age-related eye conditions. Whatever the case, keep calm and allow the doctor to make an appropriate diagnosis. 

Before leaving, you may get to choose a frame. A helpful tip is to choose one that complements the shape of your face. Make sure it is something you are comfortable wearing. Ideally, you’ll have a try-on session at your eye doctor’s office to find what size, color, and style you like.

Collecting Your Eyeglasses

When you collect your eyeglasses, the eye doctor will check the fitting on your face. They will also give you instructions on how to take care of them. Listen carefully to avoid scratching your lenses or breaking your glasses.

Adjustment Period

You will need time to adjust to your eyeglasses. During this time, your eyes may become sore, and you may experience headaches. These result from your eye muscles accommodating the power of your lenses. Wear your glasses consistently. Otherwise, you may forget, and the adjustment period may take much longer.

 

Understanding and Managing Eyestrain

You may need to manage the symptoms of eyestrain you feel as you wear your glasses. Although they will probably self-resolve within some days or weeks, you can help yourself out by giving your eyes breaks.

 

Feel free to take off your glasses for 5 to 10 minutes and allow your eyes to rest. You can exercise your eyes using the 20-20-20 rule (every 20 minutes, look 20 feet away for 20 seconds) or move your head. Sometimes, people shift their eyes and not their heads when working. It results in discomfort and eyestrain.

 

Start Small

When you get your glasses for the first time, start small. It means you may not drive for a few days to allow your eyes to adjust to vision using glasses. Walk up and down the stairs with your eyeglasses to help your eyes adjust to the dizzy feeling.

Also, avoid strenuous activities since they may make the headaches worse. For the first two or three days, give yourself time to adjust before getting back to your daily routines.

Take Care of Your Glasses

Your glasses are now a vital part of your life, so be cautious when handling them. Clean the lenses with a lint-free, soft, and dust-resistant cleaning cloth. Also, find a designated spot to put them when you are not wearing them. You will avoid scratching the lenses and breaking or misplacing your glasses.

For more information on getting glasses for the first time, contact 20/20 EyeVenue at our Westminster, Colorado office. Call (720) 740-0400 to schedule an appointment today.