Relieve Contact Lens Discomfort: Effective Tips and Solutions

Contact lenses offer a convenient alternative to glasses, providing excellent vision correction, with more freedom and without changing appearance. However, many wearers experience discomfort, which can deter them from wearing their lenses regularly. Understanding the reasons behind this discomfort and exploring ways to enhance comfort can make wearing contact lenses a more pleasant experience.
 

Common Causes of Contact Lens Discomfort

1. Dry Eyes

• One of the most common issues leading to contact lens discomfort is dry eyes. Contact lenses can absorb moisture from the eyes, leading to a feeling of dryness and irritation. Factors such as prolonged screen time, air conditioning, and low humidity can exacerbate this condition.

2. Improper Fit

• Contact lenses that do not fit properly can cause significant discomfort. Lenses that are too tight or too loose can irritate the cornea and surrounding tissue, leading to redness and discomfort. It’s crucial to have a proper fitting done by an eye care professional to ensure the lenses match the curvature and size of your eye.

3. Allergies

• Allergens such as pollen, dust, and pet dander can accumulate on the surface of contact lenses, causing irritation. The increased swelling under the eyelids create friction leading to a cycle of chronic discomfort.

4. Prolonged Wear

• Wearing contact lenses longer than recommended can cause several unwanted eye issues. Wearing lenses more than prescribed reduces oxygen supply to the cornea, leading to corneal swelling, discomfort, and fluctuating vision . Overwearing lenses also increases the risk of permanent vision from infection due to the accumulation of debris and bacteria.

5. Poor Lens Hygiene

• Not cleaning or storing contact lenses properly can lead to the buildup of proteins, lipids, and other deposits, which can cause the lenses to become uncomfortable before their scheduled replacement.

6. Sleeping With Contacts

• Sleeping in lenses overnight relates to overwear and poor lens hygiene. Deposits that would normally be removed with cleaning solution at night are instead left on the lens to create a major risk of eye infection. Dry eye symptoms are worsened as well due to the lack of blinking and lower tear production while asleep. The contact lenses act as small sponges to absorb the tears that are produced and again, the lenses miss the opportunity to rehydrate by storing in contact lens solution.

Enhancing Contact Lens Comfort

1. Treat Underlying Dry Eye

• Soft contact lenses will ALWAYS make dry eye symptoms worsen. While options are still lacking, dry eye treatments have progressed and given new ways to combat the issue. Theres no single best treatment that works for everyone but there are now OTC artificial tears, eyelid cleaning solutions, oral vitamins, prescription eye drops, prescription nose sprays, intense pulse light therapy and more. Talk to your eye doctor about new solutions to help your dry eye.

2. Use Moisturizing Drops

• Artificial tears or rewetting drops specifically designed for contact lens wearers can help alleviate dryness. Regular use can keep your eyes hydrated and comfortable throughout the day.

3. Change to Daily Contact Lenses

• Consider switching to lenses made for daily disposability, which can help reduce the risk of buildup and irritation. Daily lenses are thinner, more comfortable, and more hygienic compared to rewearable lenses. The “fresh pair feeling” each morning and tossing the routine of cases and cleaning solution can help combat inconveniences and disappointments with monthly lenses.

4. Follow Proper Lens Care Routines

• Adhere to a strict lens cleaning regimen using the appropriate solutions. Ensure you clean, rinse, and disinfect your lenses according to your optometrist’s instructions to prevent the buildup of deposits.

5. Limit Lens Wear Time

• Avoid wearing your contact lenses for longer than recommended. Give your eyes a break by switching to glasses in the evening or on days when you can. Discomfort or red eyes is an early sign of something more significant. Never wear lenses that are painful or causing redness.

6. Manage Environmental Factors

• Reduce exposure to dry air by using a humidifier in your home or office. Take breaks from screens and blink frequently to keep your eyes moist. Point car air vents away from your face. Wear goggles or other protective eyewear over your eyes in a dusty environment.

7. Consult with your Eye Care Professional

• If discomfort persists, consult with your eye care professional. They can assess your eye health and contacts to determine the cause of your discomfort and create a treatment plan to best alleviate symptoms of discomfort.

By understanding the causes of contact lens discomfort and applying strategies to enhance comfort, wearers can enjoy the benefits of contact lenses without unnecessary inconvenience. Prioritizing eye health and following these tips can lead to a more comfortable and enjoyable contact lens experience. Please call or visit us online to schedule an appointment if you would like to discuss options to personalize your contact lens comfort.