Contact lenses, while offering a convenient alternative to glasses, are a common source of eye discomfort, often causing or worsening dryness. This condition, known as contact lens-induced dry eye (CLIDE), occurs because the lens sits directly on the tear film that naturally lubricates the eye’s surface. The physical presence of the lens splits the tear film into two layers, significantly increasing the rate at which tears evaporate. Furthermore, some lens materials absorb moisture from the eye’s surface to maintain their shape, leading to a persistent feeling of dryness, grittiness, or irritation.
Immediate Relief Measures
For sudden, acute dryness, the fastest way to restore comfort is by correctly applying lubricating drops, often called artificial tears. It is important to select a product specifically labeled as safe for use with soft contact lenses, as traditional eye drops can damage the lens material. Preservative-free single-use vials are often recommended for frequent use because preservatives in multi-dose bottles can aggravate an already sensitive ocular surface.
Another immediate technique involves adjusting your natural blinking patterns, especially when focusing intently on a screen. Blinking is essential for spreading a fresh tear film across the eye and the lens surface. You should consciously practice “full blinks,” ensuring the upper and lower eyelids meet completely, rather than the partial blinks common during concentrated tasks. If discomfort persists, briefly removing your lenses for 15 to 30 minutes allows the natural tear film to stabilize. Applying a warm compress to your closed eyelids can also help stimulate the oil glands, improving tear quality.
Adjusting Your Contact Lens Routine
Addressing the contact lens material provides a long-term solution, as the lens is the primary variable causing discomfort. Many individuals find relief by switching to lenses made of silicone hydrogel, a newer material that allows significantly more oxygen to pass through to the cornea. This higher oxygen permeability supports eye health and reduces dryness associated with restricted oxygen flow.
Another highly effective strategy is transitioning to daily disposable lenses. Since these lenses are discarded after a single use, they eliminate the build-up of proteins, lipids, and allergens that contribute to chronic irritation and dryness. Conversely, traditional soft lenses with a high water content may initially feel comfortable but can draw moisture from the eye as the water in the lens evaporates throughout the day, worsening end-of-day dryness.
Beyond the lens type, your cleaning regimen requires careful attention, as the solution can be a source of irritation. Many multipurpose solutions contain preservatives that can cause a mild, chronic reaction on the ocular surface. Switching to a preservative-free hydrogen peroxide cleaning system often removes this source of chemical irritation and provides a deeper clean. Finally, adhering strictly to the recommended replacement schedule—whether daily, bi-weekly, or monthly—prevents the material from degrading and becoming less wettable.
Lifestyle and Environmental Changes
Your surroundings play a substantial role in tear evaporation, and making environmental adjustments can significantly improve lens comfort. Dry air, whether from central heating in the winter or air conditioning in the summer, accelerates the drying of the tear film. Placing a humidifier in your primary living or working area increases ambient moisture, creating a more favorable environment for comfortable lens wear.
It is beneficial to avoid direct airflow from fans, car vents, or hair dryers, as this rapidly strips moisture from the eye surface. When working on a computer, position the screen slightly below eye level, which encourages your eyes to be partially lowered. This reduces the exposed surface area of the eye, helping to slow tear evaporation.
Digital screen use is a major contributor to dryness because it causes a significant reduction in the blink rate. To combat this, follow the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds. Systemic hydration is fundamental; drinking adequate water supports overall tear production. Including dietary sources of omega-3 fatty acids, such as fatty fish, may improve the quality of the tear film’s oily layer, preventing tears from evaporating too quickly.
When to Consult an Eye Care Professional
While many cases of contact lens dryness can be managed with over-the-counter products and minor adjustments, certain symptoms indicate a deeper issue requiring professional assessment. You should schedule an appointment if you experience:
- Persistent pain.
- Severe redness that does not resolve.
- A significant change in vision.
- A constant feeling that something is stuck in the eye.
- An increase in light sensitivity.
If your symptoms are not improving despite consistent use of lubricating drops and adherence to suggested routine changes, a doctor can perform a comprehensive dry eye workup. They can diagnose underlying conditions like meibomian gland dysfunction or severe dry eye disease, which require medical intervention. An eye care professional can prescribe stronger treatments, such as anti-inflammatory drops, or discuss in-office procedures like punctal plugs to help retain your natural tears.