Are Your Contact Lenses Causing Dry Eye?

For vision correction, contact lenses are a popular option. They restore your clear vision without the need for eyeglasses. Yet, wearing them also raises the risk of dry eye. This condition causes discomfort, irritation, and visual issues. If you are considering using contact lenses, it will help to explore the link between them and dry eye symptoms. That way, you can prevent or better manage this condition.

What Is Dry Eye?

Dry eye syndrome is when tears evaporate too quickly or the eyes do not produce enough tears. This causes discomfort, irritability, and dryness. Symptoms may include blurred vision, redness, burning sensation, itching, and light sensitivity. 

How Do Contact Lenses Cause Dry Eye?

Contact lenses can increase the risk of dry eye in several ways. They can trap moisture and prevent oxygen from reaching the eye's surface, leading to dehydration and irritation. The contact lens solution can also cause an allergic reaction, leading to inflammation and dryness.

Who Is at Risk for Contact Lens-Induced Dry Eye?

Contact lens wearers are more likely to experience dry eye. This typically happens if they keep the lenses in their eyes for long periods. Other risk factors for contact lens-induced dry eye include age, gender, and certain medications.

How Can You Prevent Contact Lens-Induced Dry Eye?

You can take several measures to avoid dry eye brought on by contact lenses, including:
 

• Observe the directions provided by your eye doctor for cleaning and caring for your contact lenses

• Use artificial tears or eye drops to keep your eyes moist

• Take breaks from wearing contact lenses and wear glasses instead

• Avoid sleeping in your contact lenses

• Reduce your screen time to prevent eye strain and dryness

How Can You Manage Contact Lens-Induced Dry Eye?

Do you have dry eye problems when using contacts? If that is the case, you can try the following management techniques:
 

• Switch to daily disposable contact lenses to reduce the risk of irritation and inflammation

• Use a contact lens solution designed for sensitive eyes or preservative-free

• Use eye drops or artificial tears before and after wearing contact lenses

• Take breaks from wearing contact lenses and wear glasses instead

• Consult your eye doctor about other treatment options, such as prescription eye drops or medication

What Should You Do If You Have Symptoms of Dry Eye?

It is crucial to consult your eye doctor if you develop dry eye symptoms. Your doctor can perform an eye exam and determine the underlying cause of your problem. You may get a recommendation to change your contact lens care routine, use eye drops, or take another medication.

Can You Still Wear Contact Lenses If You Have Dry Eye?

If you have dry eye, you can still wear contact lenses with the proper care and management. Your eye doctor can recommend strategies for preventing and managing dry eye. These include using a preservative-free contact lens solution or switching to daily disposable lenses.

Conclusion

By following the tips above, you can reduce the risk of contact lens-induced dry eye and manage the condition if it occurs. See your eye doctor for guidance and treatment options if you experience dry eye symptoms.
 

For more on dry eye syndrome, visit Stonebrook Eyecare and Eyewear at our Frisco, Texas office. Call (214) 432-4370 to book an appointment today.