Why do my contacts give me a headache?

If you've ever wondered, "Can my contacts cause headaches?" the short answer is yes. 

But your contact lenses usually aren't the problem themselves. More often, they're contributing to eye strain caused by something else, like an outdated prescription, dry eyes, digital eye strain, or lenses that aren't the best fit for your eyes. 

The good news? Most contact-related headaches have a straightforward solution. Here's how to figure out what's causing yours and what you can do about it. 

Can contacts cause headaches? 

Yes. Contact lenses can contribute to headaches, especially when they're causing your eyes to work harder than they should. 

When your vision isn't being corrected properly or your eyes become dry or irritated, your eye muscles have to put in extra effort to stay focused. Over time, that added strain can lead to headaches, often around your temples, behind your eyes, or across your forehead. 

If your headaches seem worse after wearing contacts all day, spending hours in front of a screen, or reading for long periods, eye strain could be the culprit. 

Ask yourself: 

• When did the headaches start? 

• Did you recently switch prescriptions, lens brands, or solutions? 

• Are they worse after long periods of screen time? 

• Do they improve when you wear your glasses instead? 

• When was your last eye exam? 

Your answers can help point you toward the most likely cause. 

Why do my contacts give me a headache? 

Your prescription has changed 

One of the most common reasons contacts cause headaches is an outdated prescription. 

Even small vision changes can make your eyes work harder to keep everything in focus. That extra effort can build throughout the day and eventually lead to headaches. 

If it's been a while since your last eye exam or you've noticed your vision isn't quite as sharp as it used to be, it may be time for an updated prescription. If you're eligible, an online vision exam can make renewing your prescription simple from home. 

Your contacts don't fit properly 

Not every contact lens fits every eye. 

If a lens doesn't fit correctly, it may move too much, not move enough, or simply feel uncomfortable. That can affect how clearly you see and contribute to eye strain and headaches. 

If you've switched brands or haven't had your lens fit evaluated recently, schedule a contact lens exam with your eye doctor. 

You need multifocal contacts 

If you're finding it harder to read your phone while wearing contacts, age-related vision changes could be playing a role. 

As we get older, many people develop presbyopia, which makes it harder to focus on nearby objects. If you're wearing single-vision contacts but need help seeing both near and far, your eyes may be working overtime to compensate. 

Your eye doctor may recommend multifocal contacts or another vision correction option that's better suited to your needs. 

Dry eyes 

Dry eyes and contact lenses often go hand in hand. 

Contact lenses rely on a healthy tear film to stay comfortable. During long days, especially if you're staring at screens, your eyes naturally blink less often. That can dry out both your eyes and your contacts, leading to irritation, squinting, eye strain, and eventually headaches. 

Signs dry eye may be contributing include: 

• Burning or gritty eyes 

• Blurry vision that comes and goes 

• Headaches that get worse later in the day 

• Relief after removing your contacts or using lubricating eye drops 

If dryness is a recurring problem, your eye doctor may recommend a different lens material or daily disposable contacts. 

Digital eye strain 

Spending hours on a computer can trigger headaches whether you wear contacts or not. But contact lens wearers often notice the effects sooner because reduced blinking can make lenses dry out faster. 

The 20-20-20 rule can help. Every 20 minutes, look at something about 20 feet away for 20 seconds. This gives your eyes a chance to relax and reminds you to blink more often. 

Using contact lens-compatible lubricating eye drops throughout the day may also help improve comfort. 

You're wearing your contacts too long 

Every contact lens is designed to be replaced on a specific schedule. 

Wearing lenses longer than recommended allows deposits to build up, making lenses less comfortable and increasing dryness and irritation. The longer your eyes stay irritated, the more likely eye strain and headaches become. 

Always follow your eye doctor's instructions and replace your lenses according to their recommended schedule. 

You're sensitive to your lens material or solution 

Some people are more sensitive to certain contact lens materials or preservatives found in contact lens solutions. 

If your headaches started after switching brands or trying a new solution, it's worth mentioning it to your eye doctor. They may recommend a different solution or suggest switching to daily disposable lenses, which don't require cleaning solution. 

How to stop contacts from causing headaches 

The best solution depends on the underlying cause, but these tips often help: 

• Update your prescription if your vision has changed. 

• Schedule a contact lens exam to confirm your lenses fit properly. 

• Ask your eye doctor whether multifocal contacts are right for you. 

• Use preservative-free lubricating eye drops that are safe for contact lenses. 

• Follow the 20-20-20 rule during screen time. 

• Replace your contacts on schedule. 

• Avoid wearing your contacts longer than recommended. 

• Talk with your eye doctor if you think your solution or lens material may be irritating your eyes. 

When should you see an eye doctor? 

Occasional headaches from eye strain usually improve once the underlying cause is addressed. 

However, schedule an eye exam if: 

• Your headaches are becoming more frequent or severe. 

• Your vision has changed. 

• You experience double vision. 

• Your eyes are red, painful, or have discharge. 

• Your headaches don't improve after updating your prescription or changing your contact lens routine. 

Remember that not every headache while wearing contacts is caused by your contacts. Migraines, sinus headaches, dehydration, and tension headaches can all happen independently of your lenses. 

If your headaches continue despite addressing contact lens issues, talk with your primary care provider. 

Frequently asked questions 

Can wearing contacts cause headaches? 

Yes. Contact lenses can contribute to headaches when they cause eye strain from an outdated prescription, dry eyes, poor lens fit, or extended wear. 

Why do my contacts give me headaches at the end of the day? 

Headaches later in the day are often linked to dry eyes, prolonged screen time, or wearing contacts for many hours. As your eyes become tired and your contacts lose moisture, eye strain can increase. 

Can the wrong contact lens prescription cause headaches? 

Yes. An incorrect prescription can make your eyes work harder to focus, leading to eye strain and headaches. 

Can contacts that don't fit correctly cause headaches? 

Yes. Poorly fitting contacts can affect comfort and vision quality, increasing eye strain and contributing to headaches. 

Can dry eyes from contacts cause headaches? 

Yes. Dry eyes can cause irritation, squinting, and eye strain, all of which may contribute to headaches. 

Can wearing one contact cause a headache? 

It can. If one lens has the wrong prescription, fits poorly, is damaged, or your eye is irritated, uneven vision can cause eye strain that leads to headaches. 

Should I stop wearing contacts if they give me headaches? 

Not necessarily. If your headaches seem related to your contacts, switching to glasses temporarily while you figure out the cause is a good idea. An eye doctor can help determine whether your prescription, lens fit, or another issue is contributing.

 

Need new contacts? 

Whether you need to reorder your favorite lenses or renew your prescription, 1-800 Contacts makes it easy. Shop trusted contact lens brands, renew your prescription online if you're eligible, and have your contacts delivered right to your door. New customers can save on their first order. 

Original publish date: 4/18/2022

Updated date: 7/15/2026