Many contact lens wearers experience discomfort, leading them to wonder if their eyes are “rejecting” the lenses. Contact lenses are a popular vision correction option, and understanding the true causes of discomfort is important.
Do Eyes Really “Reject” Contacts?
The term “reject” is misleading, as eyes do not have an immune mechanism to reject contact lenses like an organ transplant. Instead, people are typically referring to contact lens intolerance (CLI), a condition where discomfort or pain makes wearing lenses difficult or impossible. This intolerance stems from various physiological or environmental factors, manifesting as a sensitivity or adverse reaction that prevents comfortable wear.
Common Causes of Contact Lens Discomfort
Several factors can lead to contact lens discomfort. One common cause is dry eye syndrome, where the eyes do not produce enough quality tears or tears evaporate too quickly. Contact lenses can worsen existing dryness by reducing the eye’s natural tear flow or oxygen supply. Allergies also frequently cause irritation, as environmental allergens can adhere to the lens surface, leading to itching, redness, and excessive tearing. Some individuals might also develop sensitivities to lens materials or solution preservatives.
Improper lens fit is another significant contributor. If a contact lens is too tight or too loose, it can rub against the eye, cause irritation, or restrict tear exchange, leading to irritation, redness, or blurred vision. Poor hygiene and improper care practices are also common culprits. Failing to clean lenses adequately, reusing old solution, or extending wear beyond the recommended schedule can lead to the buildup of deposits and microorganisms. This accumulation can trigger infections, inflammation (like keratitis), or conditions such as giant papillary conjunctivitis (GPC).
Overwearing contact lenses, especially sleeping in them, deprives the cornea of sufficient oxygen. This oxygen deprivation can cause corneal swelling, reduced sensitivity, and, in severe cases, the growth of new blood vessels into the cornea (neovascularization), which can impair vision. Underlying eye conditions, such as blepharitis or certain systemic diseases, can also make contact lens wear challenging. These conditions can affect the eye’s surface or tear film, making it difficult for lenses to remain comfortable.
Seeking Professional Guidance
When experiencing persistent contact lens discomfort or any concerning symptoms, consulting an eye care professional is important. An optometrist or ophthalmologist can accurately diagnose the underlying cause. They perform comprehensive examinations, including assessing lens fit, evaluating tear film quality, and checking for signs of infection or inflammation. This allows them to determine if the issue stems from dry eyes, allergies, an ill-fitting lens, or other conditions.
Based on their findings, the eye doctor can recommend tailored solutions. This might involve switching to a different lens material, adjusting the lens prescription or fit, or prescribing specific eye drops for dryness or allergies. They may also suggest a temporary break from contact lens wear to allow the eyes to recover. For infections or more serious underlying conditions, prompt medical attention and treatment are important to prevent further complications. If symptoms such as severe pain, sudden vision changes, or excessive discharge occur, immediate professional evaluation is advised.
Maintaining Healthy Contact Lens Wear
Adopting proper care habits minimizes the risk of contact lens discomfort and maintains long-term eye health. Always wash hands thoroughly with soap and water before handling contact lenses. Clean and disinfect lenses daily using the solution recommended by an eye care professional, never using tap water or saliva. Replace contact lenses according to the prescribed schedule, whether daily, bi-weekly, or monthly, as overworn lenses can accumulate deposits and lose oxygen permeability.
Avoiding overwear is another practice. Unless approved by an eye doctor, lenses should not be worn while sleeping, as this increases the risk of complications like infections and oxygen deprivation. Giving eyes a break from lenses, perhaps by wearing glasses for part of the day, can also promote eye health. Regular comprehensive eye exams are essential for contact lens wearers, typically once a year. These visits allow the eye doctor to monitor eye health, check lens fit, update prescriptions, and detect any potential issues early. Staying hydrated and blinking regularly can also contribute to eye comfort and tear film stability.