Burning contact lenses are a common experience for many wearers. This discomfort, often a stinging or gritty feeling, can range from mild to pronounced. While unpleasant, it is frequently not indicative of a serious issue. Understanding the reasons can help manage and alleviate the discomfort.
Common Reasons for Burning
Dry eyes, or insufficient moisture, commonly cause burning contact lenses. Inadequate tear production or rapid tear evaporation can dry out the lens, creating friction against the cornea. Environmental factors like low humidity, wind, or prolonged screen time worsen this dryness.
Debris trapped beneath the contact lens can cause irritation and burning. Dust, lint, makeup residue, or allergens can adhere to the lens or get lodged between the lens and the eye. This foreign material can scratch or rub against the eye.
Improper lens care and hygiene contribute to burning. Unwashed hands transfer contaminants. Tap water, instead of sterile solution, introduces irritants. Uncleaned lens cases or expired solutions also cause irritation and infection.
Sensitivity to contact lens solution ingredients can cause burning. Chemicals like preservatives or disinfectants can irritate the eye. Switching to a different solution, like hydrogen peroxide systems, can alleviate this sensitivity.
Overwearing contact lenses can deprive the cornea of sufficient oxygen, causing burning. The cornea needs oxygen; overwearing reduces this flow. This oxygen deprivation, known as hypoxia, can cause redness and irritation.
Improper lens fit can cause burning. A tight lens restricts tear exchange, trapping debris and causing irritation. A loose lens moves excessively, leading to friction. A proper fit allows comfortable wear and proper circulation.
When to Consult an Eye Doctor
While occasional burning is minor, certain symptoms warrant professional evaluation. Persistent or worsening pain suggests a serious condition. This pain may indicate corneal damage or an active infection.
Vision changes like blurriness, light sensitivity (photophobia), or decreased vision are concerning. These disturbances may signal inflammation or a severe corneal issue. An eye care professional can identify the cause.
Excessive redness or unusual discharge (e.g., pus, mucus) require prompt medical attention. These indicate an eye infection, ranging from conjunctivitis to corneal ulcers. Early diagnosis and treatment are important to prevent complications.
A persistent foreign body sensation, even after lens removal, may indicate a corneal abrasion or foreign body. This can cause irritation and damage. Eyelid or eye swelling with redness and pain indicates inflammation or infection requiring immediate assessment. Those with recurrent eye infections should be vigilant; burning may signal a new infection.
Maintaining Lens Comfort
Proper hygiene maintains contact lens comfort. Wash hands thoroughly before touching lenses to prevent contaminant transfer. Use fresh, sterile solution daily for cleaning, rinsing, and storing lenses; never reuse old solution. Clean lens cases regularly with fresh solution and air dry to prevent microorganism buildup.
Adhering to the prescribed wearing schedule is important for eye health and comfort. Overwearing reduces oxygen flow and accumulates deposits, causing burning and irritation. Replace lenses as advised for fresh, breathable material.
Selecting the appropriate contact lens solution impacts comfort. Different solutions have different compositions; some react better to types like preservative-free or hydrogen peroxide systems. Discuss sensitivity with an eye doctor to identify the best solution.
Hydrating eyes helps prevent burning. Blinking regularly refreshes the tear film. Using rewetting drops approved for contact lenses provides moisture and alleviates dryness.
Regular eye examinations are important for lens comfort and overall eye health. They allow an eye care professional to assess lens fit, check for irritation or infection, and ensure sufficient oxygen. Annual check-ups identify potential issues early.
Avoid irritants to enhance lens comfort. Apply makeup after inserting lenses; remove it before lens removal to prevent product transfer. Protect eyes from environmental irritants like wind, smoke, or dust with protective eyewear to reduce dryness and trapped particles.