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hayasma6's avatar
hayasma6
Honored Guest
2 months ago

Severe headaches after playing VR

Hi everyone,

I bought quest 3 a month ago. The first day I think I played a bit too much (~3h straight), I had some derealization issues, headaches, dizziness, I didn't slept well. The next day I tried playing some more (only for like 15 minutes) but it only got worse after playing. I decided to stop playing until I feel better and it took over a 10 days until I didn't feel dizzy. I decided to give it one more try and it was better than after first try but I still get severe headaches after playing vr, looking at any screeens feels a bit werid.

Is there any way I could make it better? Or should I just assume that VR is not for me?

3 Replies

  • Hi, dizziness is very common. What you're experiencing is called virtual reality sickness, and I suggest you look into it. Based on your experience with the VR headset, my best advice is to imagine it's like riding a bike. At first, it's hard to maintain your balance, and the same thing happens with VR headsets. Take breaks and prioritize feeling good. As soon as you feel sick or have any strange sensations, stop, breathe, and leave the session for another time. This way, you practice and adapt your brain to the new reality. An extra tip: if you have a fan, use it when you're using the devices. It greatly reduces the feeling of dizziness while playing, especially because you feel a breeze as if you were walking. Also, be mindful of what you watch or play; try to go slowly, okay? Virtual reality is beautiful, but like learning to ride a bike or anything else, you have to go step by step... 3 hours at the beginning is like getting on a roller coaster for the first time all at once... take care and have a great time.

  • Hi hayasma6​ 🙂

    Many people who are new to vr have problems with dizziness, headaches and doesn't sleep good. Some people have a weird feel when they look at their hands after being in vr.😵
    Feeling 10 days dizzy is pretty long, though.

    But actually, I think most people can do vr 
    It takes some time to get used to vr..... some people need more time than others.

    About your headaches.....if you are using the default Quest headstrap, maybe try it with a halo headstrap..... it'll take pressure from your head.

    When I got my Q3, my Bobovr headstrap wasn't delivered yet and I must use the default one.
    I wasn't new to vr, but I always got headaches with the default one.

    And the fan AnibalBk​ suggested is a great advice👍

  • steve_40's avatar
    steve_40
    Expert Trustee

    I’d suggest you talk to your doctor, in case you have some underlying problem.