When contact lenses cause a burning sensation, it signals irritation on the delicate surface of the eye. This discomfort is not a normal part of wearing lenses, but rather a warning sign that requires immediate attention and investigation. The burning or stinging can range from a minor annoyance to a sharp, persistent pain, indicating a problem that needs to be addressed. Understanding the steps for relief and the underlying causes helps prevent minor irritation from developing into a more serious condition.
Immediate Steps for Soothing Discomfort
The first action upon experiencing a burning sensation is to immediately remove the contact lenses from the eyes. Leaving the lens in place can trap the irritant against the cornea, potentially leading to further damage. Once the lenses are out, gently rinse the eyes using a sterile saline solution or preservative-free artificial tears. This rinsing action helps to flush away any foreign debris, allergens, or residual solution that may be causing the irritation.
After cleansing, the eyes should be rested without lenses to allow the surface tissues to recover. Switching to eyeglasses for a few hours or the rest of the day gives the cornea a chance to rehydrate and breathe properly. If the discomfort persists after removal and rinsing, a clean, cool compress applied lightly over the closed eyelids can help reduce inflammation. Reinsertion should only occur once the burning has completely subsided and the lenses have been thoroughly cleaned or replaced.
Identifying the Root Cause of Burning
Burning eyes often stem from three main categories: physical irritants, inadequate moisture, or chemical sensitivities. Physical irritation frequently involves deposits that accumulate on the lens surface over time, such as proteins, lipids, and calcium from the natural tear film. These deposits roughen the lens surface, leading to friction against the cornea and eyelids, especially if the lenses are worn past their replacement schedule. Foreign debris like dust, pollen, or makeup residue trapped beneath the lens can also cause acute stinging.
A second major cause is Dry Eye Syndrome, which is exacerbated by contact lens wear, especially when lenses are worn for extended periods. Contact lenses interfere with the tear film’s stability and oxygen flow to the cornea, leading to dehydration of the lens and the eye surface. This lack of moisture creates a gritty, burning sensation. Environmental factors like low humidity, wind, or prolonged screen time can worsen this, and overwearing lenses beyond the recommended daily hours also increases the risk of dryness.
Chemical sensitivity represents the third common culprit, often linked to lens care products or cosmetics used near the eyes. Some individuals react to the preservatives found in multipurpose contact lens solutions, which can cause solution-induced corneal staining. Residues from hand soaps, lotions, or eye makeup can transfer to the lens upon insertion or removal, introducing harsh chemicals that sting the sensitive ocular surface. Switching to a hydrogen peroxide-based cleaning system or preservative-free saline may resolve this specific reaction.
Essential Contact Lens Hygiene and Prevention
Preventing future episodes of burning eyes begins with establishing a meticulous hygiene routine for handling and maintaining lenses. Hand hygiene is the foundational step, requiring thorough washing with a mild soap and drying with a lint-free towel before touching the lenses. This prevents the transfer of microorganisms, lotions, or oils from the hands to the lens surface.
For reusable lenses, the “rub and rinse” method remains the standard for effective cleaning, even with “no-rub” solutions. Gently rubbing the lens in the palm of the hand with solution physically dislodges deposits and debris before a final rinse. It is imperative to use only fresh solution for cleaning and storage each time, as topping off old solution significantly reduces the disinfectant’s effectiveness and harbors contaminants.
Adhering strictly to the prescribed replacement schedule is another preventive measure, whether the lenses are daily, bi-weekly, or monthly. Wearing a lens beyond its recommended lifespan allows protein and lipid deposits to build up, which restricts oxygen flow and leads to irritation. Furthermore, the lens storage case must be cleaned, rinsed with solution, and air-dried daily, and replaced entirely every one to three months to prevent biofilm formation.
Warning Signs Requiring Medical Attention
While many instances of burning eyes are resolved through simple hygiene adjustments, certain symptoms indicate a serious eye condition that requires immediate professional evaluation. Severe, rapidly increasing pain that persists even after the lens has been removed is a significant red flag. Any sudden decrease in vision, or an increase in blurriness, should prompt an urgent call to an eye care specialist.
Other signs of a potential infection or corneal compromise include persistent, intense redness that does not subside, and an unusual sensitivity to light (photophobia). The presence of thick or colored discharge, or swelling of the eyelid or surrounding tissue, also suggests a serious issue like a bacterial infection or corneal ulcer. If the burning, pain, or redness continues for more than 24 hours after discontinuing lens wear, professional medical attention is necessary to prevent long-term damage.