Eye pain while wearing contact lenses is common, but it signals irritation to the delicate surface of the eye. The cornea, the transparent front part of the eye, is highly innervated, meaning even minor issues cause significant discomfort. This pain often indicates a problem requiring immediate attention to prevent potential damage, such as corneal abrasions or infections. Addressing the discomfort promptly maintains eye health and clear vision.
Immediate First Steps for Relief
When contact lens discomfort or pain begins, immediately remove the lenses. Continuing to wear a painful lens can worsen underlying issues, potentially embedding foreign objects or increasing corneal irritation. Once the lens is out, switch to wearing glasses to allow the eyes to rest and recover.
After removal, carefully inspect the contact lens for any signs of damage, such as a tear or chip, or for visible debris like lint or makeup residue. If the lens appears clean and undamaged, gently rinse it with fresh, sterile contact lens solution, avoiding tap water or saliva. Give your eyes a brief period of rest, encouraging the natural tear film to replenish itself by gently blinking.
Identifying the Source of Contact Lens Discomfort
Discomfort often stems from specific causes, and recognizing the symptoms helps determine the next step. One frequent reason for sudden pain is a foreign object, such as a dust particle or an eyelash, trapped between the lens and the cornea. This sensation is often described as a sharp, gritty feeling, which typically resolves once the debris is flushed out.
Another common source of irritation is Dry Eye Syndrome, where insufficient lubrication causes the lens to drag against the eye’s surface. This condition is characterized by a burning sensation, redness, and general dryness, especially late in the day or in dry environments. Since the contact lens absorbs moisture, it can exacerbate an existing dry eye issue by disrupting the natural tear film.
Overwearing the lenses can lead to a condition called corneal hypoxia, where the cornea is deprived of necessary oxygen. Since the cornea receives oxygen primarily from the air, a lens worn for too long acts as a barrier, leading to redness and discomfort. Additionally, a poor lens fit, where the lens is either too tight or too loose on the eye’s surface, can cause chronic irritation and friction.
Targeted Over-the-Counter Treatments
Once the immediate source of irritation is removed and the eye is rested, specific over-the-counter products can provide further relief. For dryness, use rewetting or lubricating drops specifically labeled as safe for contact lenses. These drops temporarily supplement the natural tear film, allowing the lens to move more smoothly.
Avoid eye drops designed to “get the red out,” as these contain vasoconstrictors that only mask redness without treating the underlying problem. If debris was the issue, a simple, non-preserved saline solution can be used to gently rinse the eye and flush out remaining particles. Saline is a balanced salt solution that mimics natural tears and is useful for cleaning.
For general inflammation or mild irritation, a cold compress placed over the closed eyelid can help reduce swelling and provide a soothing effect. If a blocked oil gland is suspected, which often presents as a small bump or localized tenderness, a warm compress is more beneficial. The heat helps melt the thickened oils, allowing the gland to drain properly.
Long-Term Prevention and Medical Warning Signs
Preventing future episodes of pain involves strict adherence to proper lens care and wear schedules. Follow the manufacturer’s recommended replacement schedule—daily, bi-weekly, or monthly—and never attempt to extend the lenses’ lifespan. Proper hygiene is non-negotiable, requiring thorough handwashing before handling lenses and using only fresh, recommended disinfecting solution for storage.
Never sleep in contact lenses unless they are specifically prescribed for extended wear, as sleeping in standard lenses significantly increases the risk of serious eye infections. Regular, scheduled eye exams are necessary to ensure the contact lens prescription and fit remain appropriate. Over time, the shape of the cornea can change, requiring a refitting of the lens to prevent friction and discomfort.
Certain symptoms indicate a need to stop self-treatment and seek immediate professional medical attention. Warning signs include severe, sudden, or increasing pain that persists after the lens is removed. Other urgent red flags are significant light sensitivity (photophobia), noticeable discharge from the eye, or redness that does not improve within 24 hours. These symptoms may point to a serious condition, such as a corneal ulcer or infection, requiring prompt medical intervention.