The burning sensation experienced while wearing contact lenses is generally not a normal occurrence, though a mild, transient sting upon insertion can sometimes happen. Contact lenses are designed to rest comfortably on the eye’s surface, and persistent or worsening burning is a strong indicator that a problem is developing and requires attention. Understanding the difference between a temporary sting and chronic discomfort is the first step toward maintaining healthy vision.
Situations Where Mild Burning Is Expected
Brief stinging immediately after inserting a lens is often a temporary chemical reaction. The most common cause is residual cleaning solution on the lens surface, particularly with hydrogen peroxide-based systems. These potent disinfectants must be fully neutralized, typically requiring a soak time of six to eight hours, converting the peroxide into a safe saline solution. If the lens is inserted before neutralization is complete, the remaining hydrogen peroxide causes a painful, yet usually non-damaging, chemical irritation to the corneal epithelial cells.
Traces of foreign substances transferred from your hands can also cause brief irritation, such as soap, hand lotion, or cosmetic residues clinging to the lens. If a temporary sting occurs, blink several times to encourage natural tears to flush the eye. Alternatively, remove the lens, rinse it thoroughly with sterile saline, and reinsert it. If the discomfort resolves quickly, the cause was likely a minor irritant.
Common Causes of Persistent Contact Lens Discomfort
If burning persists throughout the day or occurs regularly, it indicates a chronic issue requiring a change in lens care or consultation with a specialist. A frequent culprit is Dry Eye Syndrome, where the lens material absorbs moisture from the tear film. This disrupts the eye’s natural lubrication, increasing friction between the lens and the cornea, which causes a burning or gritty sensation.
Another common source of ongoing irritation is the buildup of deposits on the lens surface. Tear film components like proteins and lipids naturally accumulate over time and can trigger an allergic or inflammatory response. Chronic protein buildup can lead to Giant Papillary Conjunctivitis (GPC), characterized by small, cobblestone-like bumps on the underside of the upper eyelid, resulting in a foreign body sensation and excessive mucus discharge.
Sensitivity to the chemicals in multipurpose solutions is a significant factor, often referred to as a toxic reaction. Many solutions contain preservatives, such as polyhexamethylene biguanide (PHMB) or polyquaternium-1 (Polyquad), which are absorbed by the lens material. These preservatives are slowly released onto the ocular surface, potentially causing mild, chronic inflammation or corneal staining.
Physical issues, such as a poor lens fit, can also result in persistent burning. A contact lens that is too tight restricts the flow of oxygen to the cornea, leading to a condition called hypoxia, which manifests as discomfort and redness. Conversely, a lens that is too loose moves excessively with blinking, causing mechanical rubbing against the corneal surface and resulting in chronic irritation.
Warning Signs and When to Consult a Specialist
While mild burning can be managed with adjustments, certain symptoms indicate a potentially serious eye infection or complication requiring immediate professional evaluation. Severe, sudden pain, or pain that continues after the lens is removed, should be treated as an emergency. This pain can signal a corneal abrasion or, more seriously, microbial keratitis, a sight-threatening infection of the cornea.
Other red flags indicate the underlying issue is affecting corneal health. If any of these symptoms occur, immediately remove your contact lenses, switch to wearing glasses, and contact an eye care professional without delay:
- Persistent, noticeable redness of the eye.
- Unusual or excessive eye discharge.
- A sudden change in vision, including blurry vision.
- The appearance of halos around lights.
- Extreme sensitivity to light (photophobia).