Are Your Contact Lenses Causing Dry Eyes?

Studies indicate that almost 45 million Americans wear contact lenses. The lenses provide function and convenience without worrying about eyeglasses. Unfortunately, wearing contact lenses can cause or worsen symptoms of dry eye syndrome. People who experience eye dryness can find it uncomfortable to wear contacts. If your eyes are dry, itchy, irritated, or red, find out if your contact lenses are causing dry eyes. 

Understanding Dry Eye Condition 

Dry eye condition occurs when the eyes fail to produce adequate good quality tears to remain lubricated and comfortable. There are two main categories of dry eye: water tear-deficient dry eye and evaporative dry eye.

The first type occurs when the lacrimal glands do not produce enough tears. The second occurs when the meibomian glands are blocked, resulting in poor-quality tears that evaporate too quickly. 

Causes of Dry Eye Syndrome 

Various factors can lead to dry eye. The causes include:

·      Meibomian gland dysfunction

·      Damage to any part of the eye

·      Menopause or hormonal changes

·      Allergies and various health conditions

·      Medications such as antidepressants, antihistamines, and blood pressure drugs

·      Wearing contact lenses for prolonged periods

Contact Lenses and Dry Eyes 

Contact lenses lie directly on the eye's surface, limiting oxygen flow to the eye. Contact lenses can cause the eyes to struggle to make and maintain tears, leaving the eyes dry and uncomfortable.

Overwearing contact lenses and wearing the wrong fit or prescription can cause eye dryness. To lessen the risk of developing dry eye, you must undergo a contact lens exam before wearing lenses. Wearing the right lens type is helpful.

Wearing Contact Lenses - Managing Dry Eye 

There are steps you can take to manage dry eye while wearing contact lenses. 

·      Use artificial tears to keep your eyes lubricated.

·      Choose the best type of lens to prevent dryness.

·      Use the right contact lens solution to clean your lenses.

·      Ensure you care for your lenses according to instructions.

Make healthy lifestyle choices, including wearing sunglasses outdoors, eating a healthy diet, avoiding smoking, and staying hydrated.

Choosing Contact Lenses

If you experience eye dryness, your eye doctor can recommend contact lenses that are ideal for you. Silicone hydrogel contact lenses can reduce eye dryness by allowing more oxygen to reach your eyes. Choosing low water content lenses will allow more oxygen flow while drawing liquid to the tear film. 

Scleral lenses are designed to vault over the cornea, allowing the eye surface to remain moist longer. Daily disposable contacts are ideal for people with dry eyes. Your eye doctor may also recommend orthokeratology gas-permeable lenses that you only wear overnight.

The contact lens solution you use to clean your lenses may be causing your dry eye. Consult your eye doctor about the best solution for your lenses and eye condition. Make sure you follow a proper hygiene routine for caring for your lenses. 

Always wear your lenses for the prescribed duration and dispose of them as instructed. Avoid wearing your contacts when you are experiencing symptoms. Maintain proper eye health by scheduling regular eye exams. 

For more on whether your contacts are causing dry eyes, call Southwest Orlando Eye Care at (407) 271-8931 to reach our Orlando, Florida office.