You love the freedom your contact lenses give you, but sometimes your eyes feel tired, red, or gritty. It’s a common experience for many contact lens wearers, especially toward the end of a long day. These sensations are often signs of dry eye syndrome.
Dry eye-related discomfort can make you wonder if your contacts are the source of the problem. Yes, contact lenses can contribute to problems with dry eyes, but that doesn’t mean you have to give them up. With the right approach and care, starting with a thorough contact lens exam, we can often find a solution that keeps your eyes feeling great.
Understand the Connection Between Contacts & Eye Moisture
Think of your eye’s surface as being covered by a thin, protective layer of tears called the tear film. This layer keeps your eyes moist, clear, and comfortable. A contact lens rests directly on top of this delicate tear film.
For some people, the lens can soak up tears like a tiny sponge or disrupt this natural layer of moisture. This interference can reduce the amount of hydration your eye receives. When that happens, you may start to experience the uncomfortable feeling associated with dry eye syndrome.
How to Know If Contacts Cause Your Dry Eyes
Your eyes often send clear signals when they aren’t happy with your contacts. If you notice a change in how your eyes feel, particularly as the day goes on, your lenses might be a factor. Paying attention to these signs is the first step toward finding relief.
Common Symptoms to Watch For
- A scratchy or sandy feeling, as if something is in your eye
- Redness, burning, or irritation, which is sometimes mistaken for pink eye
- Vision that gets blurry then clears when you blink
- A feeling that your lenses are stuck to your eyes
- Increased sensitivity to light
Simple Ways to Find Relief & Comfort
The great news is that you don’t always have to choose between contacts and comfort. You can often make a big difference for your eyes by making a few small adjustments to your daily routine. These simple habits can help your eyes stay hydrated and happy.
Tips for Better Lens Care & Hydration
- Use rewetting drops approved for contact lens wearers to add moisture throughout the day.
- Always stick to your lens replacement schedule—don’t wear them longer than recommended.
- Clean and disinfect your lenses properly every single day using a strict hygiene routine to remove deposits that cause irritation.
- Remember to blink often, especially when you look at a computer or phone screen. This combats digital eye strain and helps spread tears evenly.
Give Your Eyes a Rest
Don’t try to push through eye pain or severe irritation. Take your contacts out and switch to your glasses for a day or two. This gives your eyes a chance to recover and your tear film a chance to rebalance. It’s also why having a pair of fashionable backup frames is a smart idea.
Choose the Right Type of Contact Lens
Not all contact lenses are created equal. Modern lenses are made from new materials and have designs specifically for people who experience dryness. Discussing these options with your doctor during your annual contact lens exam is a great step toward more comfortable wear for you and your family.
Lens Options to Discuss With Your Doctor
- Daily Disposables: A fresh, clean pair every morning reduces the chance of irritants or protein deposits building up on the lens.
- Silicone Hydrogel Lenses: These lenses allow more oxygen to reach the surface of your eye, which helps keep them healthy and comfortable for longer periods.
- Lenses with High Water Content: Some lenses are made with special materials that hold moisture better, keeping them from drying out on your eye as the day wears on.
See a Professional to Relieve Discomfort
A regular eye exam is important for everyone, but it’s particularly important for contact lens wearers. An annual visit allows for a check of your overall eye health and ensures your prescription is just right. As your eye doctor in Walnut Creek, can also help you create a care plan to meet your family’s vision needs.
At Insight Vision Care Optometry, we’re your neighbors, and we’re here to help you find that perfect balance between clear vision and all-day comfort. If you’re struggling with dry eyes from your contacts, our doctors are here to find solutions that are right for you. Schedule a visit today!
