Choosing contact lenses can offer you freedom, but sometimes it can also lead to discomfort. This is especially true if you’re prone to dry eye syndrome.
The good news is that you don’t have to choose between contacts and comfortable eyes. The key to comfortable contact lens wear is to combine the right lens technology with a personalized care routine that supports the health of your tear film.
A few simple adjustments can make a big difference in how your eyes feel throughout the day.
Why Your Contacts & Dry Eyes Don’t Mix
Your contact lenses rest on a thin layer of moisture called the tear film that covers the surface of your eyes. If you don’t produce enough tears or if your tear quality is poor, this film becomes unstable. A contact lens can cause additional disruption to the tear film, leading to irritation and a feeling of dryness.
Common Signs of Dry Eye
- A gritty or sandy feeling, like something is in your eye
- Redness & irritation
- Vision that becomes blurry after a few hours of wear
- Increased sensitivity to light
- A constant urge to blink or rub your eyes
Top Reasons for Dryness with Contact Lenses
Several factors can contribute to dry eye symptoms. Some are related to your surroundings, while others involve your lenses themselves or your daily habits. Understanding the causes of your discomfort can help you find a solution.
Your Environment & Daily Habits
Spending long hours in front of a computer screen can lead to digital eye strain and may cause your tears to evaporate faster. This is because, when you focus on a screen, you tend to blink less often, which prevents your tears from properly recoating your eyes.
Air conditioning, heating, and even windy weather have a similar effect.
Environmental allergies can also play a role, as allergens can irritate the surface of your eyes, making them feel dry and uncomfortable—especially when wearing contact lenses.
Your Contact Lenses
Not all contact lenses are made the same. Some materials are designed to hold moisture better than others. An older lens type or a lens that doesn’t fit your eye correctly can worsen feelings of dryness.
An Improper Lens Care Routine
Using the wrong cleaning solution or not cleaning your lenses properly can lead to buildup. This buildup creates a rough surface that irritates your eye. It also interferes with the natural flow of tears under the lens.
Practical Tips for Immediate Relief
When your eyes feel dry and irritated, a few simple steps can provide quick comfort. These at-home remedies help restore moisture and soothe your eyes. They can offer a welcome break from discomfort.
Use Contact Lens-Safe Rewet Drops
Always use rewetting drops specifically made for contact lenses, as regular eye drops aren’t designed for this purpose. Preservative-free formulas are often a good choice for sensitive eyes. These drops can provide a quick boost of moisture.
Apply A Warm Compress
Gently place a clean, warm washcloth over your closed eyelids for 5–10 minutes. This can help soften blockages in the glands that produce oils for your tears, thereby helping to restore your tear film.
Take Frequent Screen Breaks
Follow the 20-20-20 rule to reduce digital eye strain. Every 20 minutes, look away from your screen at something at least 20 feet away for 20 seconds. This gives your eyes a chance to relax and rehydrate.
Create a Better Contact Lens Routine
Long-term comfort often requires a few adjustments to your routine. It’s all about finding a plan that works for you.
Switch To Daily Disposable Lenses
Daily disposable lenses eliminate the need for cleaning solutions and cases. You start with a fresh, sterile, and moisture-rich lens every day. This can reduce irritation from buildup and allergies.
Ask About Lenses for Dry Eyes
Newer contact lens technologies use materials that allow more oxygen to reach your eye. Many lenses also have built-in wetting agents that provide sustained moisture for all-day comfort. Your optometrist can help you explore these options during a contact lens exam.
Give Your Eyes a Rest with Glasses
Even with great lenses, it helps to give your eyes a break. Plan to wear your glasses for a few hours in the evening. You could also dedicate one or two days a week to go contact-free in order to let your eyes recover.
When to Speak with Your Waterdown Optometrist
If at-home remedies don’t provide enough relief, it’s time to schedule a visit to your optometrist. A professional evaluation can identify the cause of your discomfort. Your optometrist can then work with you to create a personalized plan.
Your Discomfort Persists or Worsens
Constant irritation isn’t something that you have to live with. As your eye doctor in Waterdown, we can check for underlying conditions that may contribute to dryness. Identifying the root cause is the first step toward effective relief.
Your Vision Fluctuates
If your vision becomes blurry while wearing contacts, it may be a sign of significant dryness or a poor lens fit. A professional exam can confirm the cause. Your vision should feel stable and clear all day long.
Discover Comfortable Vision
If you’re struggling with dryness and irritation, we’re here to help. Reach out to our team at Waterdown Optometric Clinic to book your appointment and find a solution that works for you.
