If you've ever experienced the discomfort of dry eyes, you know just how bothersome it can be. It's a common issue that affects many people. If you wear contact lenses, you might be wondering how to effectively manage both. Today, we'll delve into the relationship between contact lenses and dry eyes. We'll explore effective tips for preventing dry eye while wearing contact lenses, as well as essential steps to take if you find yourself dealing with dry eye while wearing contact lenses.
Understanding Dry Eye Syndrome:
Dry eye syndrome happens when the eyes don't produce enough tears or the tears evaporate too quickly, leading to inadequate lubrication of the surface of the eye. This can cause redness, itching, a burning sensation, or the feeling of sand in the eye. It's important to address these symptoms before using or continuing with contact lenses. Let's explore the key factors to consider.
Severity of Symptoms: Assess the severity of your dry eye symptoms. Mild cases may not hinder contact lens use. For moderate to severe dry eyes, consult an eye care professional before trying contact lenses.
Type of Contact Lenses: Newer contact lens materials, specifically silicone hydrogel (SiHy) lenses, retain moisture better. SiHy lenses are more comfortable for those with dry eyes because they allow more oxygen to reach the cornea and retain moisture.
Proper Hydration: Hydration is crucial for overall health and easing dry eye symptoms. Drinking enough water indirectly improves eye moisture levels, but it's not a direct solution for chronic dry eye.
Lifestyle Adjustments: If you insist on wearing contact lenses despite dry eyes, make lifestyle changes. Use preservative-free artificial tears, take breaks from screens, avoid smoky or dusty places, and practice good eyelid hygiene.
Consultation with an Eye Care Professional: Consult an eye care professional for a thorough evaluation, lens recommendations, and personalized advice based on your situation.
When Do Contact Lenses Cause Dry Eye?
Contact lenses are generally trouble-free and comfortable to wear. However, there are certain situations where they can potentially lead to dry eye symptoms. It's important to be aware of these situations and take appropriate measures to maintain eye health and comfort while wearing contact lenses.
Extended Wear: Wearing contact lenses for long periods, especially beyond the recommended wear time, can cause dry eyes. It reduces oxygen flow to the cornea, leading to discomfort and hypoxia, which can cause sight-threatening issues.
Improper Fit: Ill-fitting contact lenses can disrupt the tear film, increasing tear evaporation and causing dryness. A proper fitting ensures the right size and lens parameters for your eyes.
Materials and Maintenance: Contact lenses made of materials that evaporate tears quickly, along with improper lens solution usage for storage and cleaning, can decrease lens comfort and quality.
Environmental Factors: Dry or dusty environments, like air-conditioned spaces or windy conditions, can worsen dry eye symptoms when wearing contact lenses.
What to Do If You Experience Dry Eye While Wearing Contact Lenses:
There are e ways to lessen any uncomfortable symptoms when wearing contact lenses. Here are some practical steps to effectively manage and alleviate symptoms of dry eyes while wearing contact lenses.
Take Breaks: Give your eyes regular breaks from digital screens, especially if you work on a computer for extended periods.
Consider Resting: On days when your eyes feel particularly dry, consider wearing glasses instead of contact lenses to give your eyes a break.
Consult an Eye Care Professional: If you experience persistent dry eye symptoms, you can come to Chic Eyes for a consultation. After a thorough evaluation, we can determine if changes in lens type, fit, or other factors are necessary.
Finding your perfect fit
When dealing with dry eyes, the choice of contact lenses can have a significant impact. At Chic Eyes, we offer a wide range of options to address your needs. Our daily and monthly disposable contact lenses are carefully designed to correct your prescription, including astigmatism. For patients wanting to see both distance and near without their progressive glasses, we now have multifocal contact lenses. With our tailored solutions, you can enjoy unparalleled comfort and clarity, ensuring your eyes stay refreshed and your vision remains crystal clear. Experience the difference with Chic Eyes!