If you wear contact lenses and often feel like your eyes are staging a protest dry, itchy, burning, or just plain tired, you’re not alone. One of the most common complaints among contact lens wearers is dry eye. But don’t discontinue those lenses just yet, with a little care and some smart strategies, one can enjoy clear vision and comfort too.
Let’s dive into the why, what, and how of keeping your eyes happy behind the lens.
Why Do Contact Lenses Trigger Dry Eye?
Your eyes naturally produce a tear film that keeps the surface smooth and hydrated. Contact lenses sit right on top of that delicate layer, acting like a sponge absorbing your tears and sometimes even disrupting tear production altogether. Add to that screen time, pollution, AC, or long hours in dry environments, and your eyes are tired and dry.
Symptoms to Watch Out For:
• Gritty sensation
• Redness and irritation
• Blurred or fluctuating vision
• Light sensitivity
• Watery eyes
If one experience these often, it’s time to take your eye health seriously.
Top Tips for Comfortable Wear with Dry Eyes
1. Choose the Right Lenses
Not all lenses are created equal. Look for:
• Silicone hydrogel lenses – they allow more oxygen through to the eye.
• Daily disposables – fresh pair every day leads to less buildup is equal to happier eyes.
• Moisture-rich lenses – ask your optometrist for lenses designed specifically for dry eyes.
2. Master the Blink
When you have long hour continuous screen time, your blink rate drops. That means fewer tears spread across your eye.
Tip: Practice full, conscious blinking, especially during screen time.
3. Use Lubricating Eye Drops
Artificial tears are your saviours. Just make sure to:
• Use preservative-free drops if you’re applying them frequently.
• Avoid redness-reducing drops, they might make things worse.
4. Follow the Lens Rulebook
• Don’t overwear your lenses.
• Don’t sleep in them (unless prescribed).
• Clean them properly with fresh solution — never reuse old liquid.
5. Use a Warm Compress
A gentle warm compress can unclog your oil glands and improve tear quality. Try it before lens wear or at the end of the day.
6. Consider a Lens Break
Give your eyes some breathing room. Switch to glasses now and then, especially during long work hours or at home.
When to See Your Eye Doctor
If discomfort persists despite all your efforts, it’s time for a professional evaluation. You may need:
• A change in lens material or brand
• Treatment for Meibomian gland dysfunction
• Prescription eye drops
• Punctal plugs to reduce tear drainag
Your optometrist can tailor solutions to your eyes, your lifestyle, and your lens habits.
CONCLUSION
Contact lenses and dry eye don’t have to be a toxic relationship. With mindful lens care, smart hydration habits, and help from your eye care provider, you can keep things cool, clear, and comfortable. So next time your eyes feel dry, you’ll know exactly what to do, blink, hydrate, and show your lenses some care.
