Contact lenses offer a convenient and discreet way to correct vision for millions of people globally. This modern alternative to spectacles provides freedom and flexibility for various lifestyles. However, placing a thin dome of plastic directly onto the eye often triggers anxiety in new and even experienced users. A primary concern for many is the fear that contact lens insertion will be painful. This article addresses that common worry and offers practical guidance for a comfortable experience.
The Typical Sensation of Contact Lens Insertion
Putting in a contact lens should not cause pain. The eye is highly sensitive, but the sensation of a properly inserted lens is typically described as a mild awareness, rather than true pain. This initial feeling is known as a foreign body sensation, which is the eye’s natural response to an object resting on the cornea.
When the lens is correctly placed, the lubricating properties of the natural tear film quickly cushion the lens against the eye’s surface. Within a few moments, this foreign body sensation diminishes significantly as the eye adapts to the presence of the lens. If the sensation persists, it often indicates an underlying issue, such as a tear or debris. A comfortable lens should feel almost unnoticeable once it settles into place.
Common Causes of Discomfort
When insertion results in stinging, burning, or a scratching sensation, it is usually due to a controllable factor. One of the most frequent causes is improper hygiene, where debris, makeup, or oil from the fingers contaminates the lens surface. Even a microscopic particle of dust trapped between the lens and the cornea can feel like a painful scratch.
Another common source of immediate discomfort is physical damage to the lens itself. A small chip, tear, or abnormality in the thin material can rub against the corneal surface, causing significant irritation. Lenses that are inside-out, identified by flared edges instead of a smooth bowl shape, will also sit incorrectly and cause a strong foreign body sensation. Furthermore, insufficient lubrication can lead to dryness, making the lens adhere too tightly or drag across the eye’s surface. Poor lens fit, determined by a professional, can also cause constant friction if the curvature is wrong for the individual eye.
Step-by-Step Guide for Painless Insertion
Minimizing discomfort begins with meticulous preparation. First, wash your hands thoroughly with mild soap and dry them with a lint-free towel to prevent the transfer of germs, lint, or oils to the lens. Next, inspect the lens to ensure it is clean and correctly oriented, resembling a perfect bowl shape with the edges pointing straight up, often called the “taco test.”
To prepare the eye, use the middle finger of the hand holding the lens to gently pull down the lower eyelid, securing it near the lash line. Simultaneously, use the index or middle finger of your non-dominant hand to hold the upper eyelid open, maximizing the entry space and preventing an involuntary blink. Keeping both eyes open and looking straight ahead or slightly upward helps to relax the eye muscles, making the process smoother.
Gently place the lens directly onto the center of the cornea or the white part of the eye, known as the sclera, using the tip of your index finger. Once the lens makes contact, slowly remove your finger, then gently release the lower and upper eyelids in that order. Blinking a few times will naturally center the lens and smooth out any trapped air bubbles, leading to a comfortable and clear fit.
When Pain Signals a Serious Issue
While mild, temporary irritation is common, persistent or severe pain is a signal that requires immediate attention. If you experience worsening pain that continues after the lens has been removed, or if the eye exhibits symptoms like intense light sensitivity, sudden blurred vision, or excessive discharge, these are medical red flags. These symptoms suggest a potential corneal complication, such as a corneal abrasion—a scratch on the eye’s surface—or a corneal ulcer, which is a more serious infection.
Infections like microbial keratitis, though rare, can cause severe and worsening pain, sometimes leading to permanent vision loss if not treated promptly. If you notice a whitish spot on the cornea, or if the eye is significantly red and watery, remove the lens immediately and contact an eye care professional. Ignoring these signs and continuing to wear the lens can rapidly escalate a minor issue into a serious medical emergency.