Investigating the Relationship Between Eye Contacts and Dryness
Wearing contact lenses can sometimes exacerbate dry eye symptoms, making it essential for wearers to take proper care of their eyes. In this article, we will explore various strategies to manage dry eyes while wearing contact lenses, as well as factors that contribute to dry eye symptoms in contact lens wearers.
First and foremost, it's crucial to avoid wearing contact lenses overnight or for extended periods. Prolonged contact lens wear can lead to low-level inflammation associated with dry eyes[1]. Additionally, incorrect fitting of contact lenses can worsen dry eye symptoms, so it's essential to ensure that your lenses fit correctly[1].
Soft contact lenses can absorb too much of a wearer's tear film, contributing to dryness. To combat this, healthcare providers may recommend switching to hydrogel or water gradient lenses, which can help keep your eyes moisturized[2]. Another option could be scleral lenses, which collect a reservoir of tears and bring in oxygen, helping your eyes stay clear and moist[3].
At-home solutions for managing dry eyes while wearing contact lenses include using warm compresses, applying cucumber slices, staying well-hydrated, using a humidifier, taking regular screen breaks, blinking more often, and gently cleaning eyelids[4]. Using lubricating or rewetting eye drops made for contact lenses can also provide immediate relief from dryness and irritation[5].
Switching to daily disposable contact lenses can reduce deposit buildup that can irritate eyes and often improve comfort. However, such changes should be done under an eye care professional's guidance[6]. Wearing glasses periodically can also help eyes recover moisture and reduce overuse irritation[6].
Nutritional improvements, such as increasing omega-3 fatty acid intake, may also help maintain eye lubrication[7]. Always consult your eye care provider before making changes to contact lens type or starting new treatments.
Eye allergies, such as allergic conjunctivitis, can make dry eye symptoms worse for contact lens wearers. Hard contact lenses can create friction on the eyes, which can worsen dry eye symptoms[8]. Symptoms of dry eyes in contact lens wearers can include stinging, burning, redness, blurred vision, sensitivity to light, feeling like there's sand or grit in the eyes, and watery eyes[9].
Contact lenses can increase the risk of dry eyes, especially with age or prolonged use. To minimize this risk, follow your doctor's recommendations for wearing contacts, including daily lens usage. Untreated dry eye can lead to long-term discomfort and even long-term eye damage.
Lastly, wash your hands before putting in contacts to prevent infections. Limit your amount of screen time or take frequent breaks when using digital screens to reduce dryness caused by screen use.
By implementing these strategies, contact lens wearers can significantly alleviate dry eye symptoms caused or worsened by contact lens wear and improve comfort at home[1][2][3][4]. Always consult your eye care provider for personalised advice and recommendations.
References: [1] American Academy of Ophthalmology. (2021). Contact Lens-Related Dry Eye. [2] American Optometric Association. (2021). Dry Eye Syndrome. [3] Mayo Clinic. (2021). Dry eyes. [4] All About Vision. (2021). Dry Eye and Contact Lenses. [5] WebMD. (2021). Contact Lens-Related Dry Eye. [6] Optometrists Network. (2021). Managing Dry Eye While Wearing Contact Lenses. [7] National Eye Institute. (2021). Dry Eye Fact Sheet. [8] American Optometric Association. (2021). Contact Lenses. [9] Mayo Clinic. (2021). Dry eyes symptoms.
Maintaining a balanced diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids, as recommended by the National Eye Institute, may aid in preserving eye lubrication, contributing to the health and wellness of contact lens wearers. Additionally, taking proper care of one's eyes, such as ensuring contact lenses fit correctly and following guidelines for wearing contacts, can help manage dry eyes and prevent the associated discomfort or long-term damage.
