People choose to wear contact lenses over eyeglasses for many reasons, ranging from aesthetic preference to functionality with an active lifestyle. Today, contact lenses are a more viable alternative to glasses than ever. However, for those with dry eyes, wearing contacts can create an additional persistent itch or feeling of something being in your eye. This can be uncomfortable, and it may even affect a person’s vision.
Fortunately, you don’t have to ditch the contacts to ditch that feeling of irritation! Effectively managing dry eye with contacts involves proper use of your prescription, maintaining contact cleanliness, keeping your body and eyes hydrated, and giving your eyes regular breaks.
Understanding Dry Eye Disease
Dry eye disease is common when your tears don’t provide adequate lubrication for your eyes. An unstable tear layer may lead to inflammation and can damage the surface of your eye. Common symptoms that can appear with dry eye disease include:
Stringy mucus in or around your eyes
Sensitivity to light
Eye redness and swelling
Blurred vision or eye fatigue
Stinging and burning
Tear production can decrease with age or be influenced by hormonal changes, environmental factors, and certain medications. Identifying the cause of your dry eyes can help you and your optometrist find effective treatment options.
The Impact of Contact Lenses on Dry Eyes
Contact lenses can exacerbate dry eye symptoms. Contacts sit directly on the eye’s surface, disrupting the natural tear film and leading to increased evaporation. Certain lenses may also draw moisture away from the eyes, worsening the situation. This is why some people experience more discomfort with their lenses later in the day.
Fortunately, new developments in contact lens technology are aimed at reducing dryness. By understanding how contacts affect dry eyes, you can take steps to mitigate these effects and enjoy wearing your lenses comfortably. Discussing contact use with your eye care professional is essential if you’re experiencing more discomfort while wearing your contact lenses.
Can You Still Wear Contact Lenses with Dry Eyes?
The good news is that having dry eyes doesn’t mean you have to give up wearing contact lenses altogether. It’s critical, however, to undergo a thorough assessment with your optometrist. They can guide you in choosing the right lenses and suggest treatments to alleviate your symptoms. This might include using specific eye drops or adjusting how and when you wear your lenses.
Don’t be discouraged if you’ve faced challenges in the past. With the right approach, you can continue wearing contacts without compromising comfort or eye health.
Opting for the Best Contact Lenses for Dry Eyes
Not all contact lenses are created equal when it comes to dry eyes. Today’s market offers various options designed to enhance moisture retention and comfort.
Daily disposable lenses minimize protein deposits and allergens that might irritate dry eyes.
Silicone hydrogel lenses allow more oxygen to reach the eye, which can mitigate dryness.
Some lenses even come with built-in wetting agents that keep them moist longer.
Your optometrist can recommend the best type of lenses based on your specific needs and lifestyle. It’s worth exploring these options to find the perfect fit for your eyes.
