Contact lens discomfort, often described as dryness, irritation, or the sensation of a foreign object, is a common experience. This reduced comfort typically occurs as the day progresses and can lead to decreased wearing time or discontinuation of lens use. Understanding the primary causes is the first step toward finding practical solutions for long-term comfort. Strategies involve managing immediate symptoms, improving maintenance, and addressing underlying material or fit issues.
Immediate Strategies for Eye Hydration
Maintaining a stable and sufficient tear film over the lens surface is paramount for comfort. Rewetting or lubricating drops supplement the eye’s natural moisture, but they must be specifically formulated for contact lenses. Preservative-free drops are often recommended for frequent application because preservatives in standard drops can accumulate on the lens material and cause irritation.
Conscious blinking is an effective technique, particularly during concentrated screen time, which reduces the natural blink rate. Fully closing the eyelids helps spread the tear film evenly across the lens surface, flushing away minor debris and refreshing the moisture layer. Environmental factors also play a large role, as low humidity and high air movement accelerate tear evaporation. Positioning away from direct exposure to air conditioning vents, fans, or forced-air heating can mitigate this effect.
General body hydration contributes to the quality and volume of tear production. Increasing daily water intake supports the body’s overall fluid balance, providing the building blocks for a healthier tear film. Addressing these environmental and behavioral factors alongside the use of appropriate rewetting drops provides immediate relief from dryness and grittiness.
Ensuring Proper Lens Hygiene and Handling
Comfort issues frequently stem from the accumulation of proteins, lipids, and debris on the lens surface, which requires strict adherence to a proper cleaning routine. The “rub and rinse” method is the most effective way to mechanically dislodge these deposits, even when using modern “no-rub” multipurpose solutions. This involves placing the lens in the palm, applying solution, and gently rubbing both sides with a clean fingertip for about 10 to 20 seconds.
After rubbing, the lens must be thoroughly rinsed with fresh solution to wash away the loosened debris before storage. Never use tap water or saliva on contact lenses, as neither is sterile and both can introduce harmful microorganisms. Always use fresh solution for soaking, and never “top off” the old solution, which reduces the disinfectant’s effectiveness.
The contact lens case is a potential source of contamination and must be maintained properly to prevent discomfort and infection. The case should be rinsed with fresh solution after each use, emptied, and left open to air-dry upside down on a clean tissue. Replacing the lens case at least every three months significantly reduces the risk of deposit buildup and bacterial growth.
When Comfort Requires a Change in Lenses or Fit
If discomfort persists despite optimizing hydration and hygiene, the issue may relate to the lens material or fit, requiring a professional consultation. Soft contact lenses are primarily made from two material types: hydrogel and silicone hydrogel, each impacting comfort differently. Traditional hydrogel lenses rely on high water content for oxygen permeability, but this water can evaporate quickly, leading to end-of-day dryness.
Silicone hydrogel lenses incorporate silicone to allow significantly more oxygen to reach the cornea, independent of water content. This is beneficial for corneal health and extended wear. While early generations sometimes had lower wettability, modern designs have largely mitigated these issues. An eye care professional can assess whether the oxygen permeability or water retention properties of your current lens material contribute to discomfort.
Lens Fit Issues
The physical fit of the lens is a precise parameter. A lens that is too tight or too loose can cause constant irritation, redness, or a foreign body sensation. A tight lens restricts the natural movement required for tear exchange, while a loose lens moves excessively with each blink, creating friction. Recognizing signs like persistent redness, pain, or blurred vision necessitates an immediate consultation, as these symptoms can indicate a more serious underlying ocular issue.