When contact lenses cause a burning sensation, it can be an uncomfortable and concerning experience for many wearers. Understanding the various factors that contribute to this sensation can help clarify the underlying causes and provide insight into managing eye comfort.
Common Reasons for Burning Eyes
Ocular dryness is a frequent cause of burning eyes when wearing contact lenses. Insufficient tear film production can lead to friction between the lens and the eye’s surface, resulting in irritation. Environmental factors, such as prolonged exposure to air conditioning, heating, or windy conditions, can also accelerate tear evaporation, exacerbating dryness.
Allergies are another common reason for discomfort. Individuals may experience burning due to airborne allergens like pollen or pet dander adhering to the lens surface, triggering an allergic response. Some people also develop sensitivities to specific contact lens materials or to preservatives in certain solutions.
An improper lens fit can also contribute to burning eyes. If a contact lens is either too tight or too loose, it can cause excessive friction with each blink. A poorly fitting lens might also restrict oxygen flow to the cornea, leading to irritation and a burning feeling due to corneal hypoxia.
Poor hygiene practices are a major factor in eye discomfort and potential burning. Handling lenses with unwashed hands can transfer bacteria and debris directly to the eye, increasing the risk of irritation or infection. Improper cleaning and storage also allow contaminants and protein deposits to accumulate on the lens surface, which can cause burning upon insertion.
Incompatibility with contact lens solutions is another potential issue. Some individuals react to specific ingredients, particularly preservatives, in their cleaning or storage solutions, leading to a burning sensation. Expired or damaged lenses, with micro-tears or excessive protein buildup, can also irritate the eye.
Underlying eye conditions can also cause burning when wearing contact lenses. Mild eye infections, such as conjunctivitis, or conditions like blepharitis (inflammation of the eyelids) can be worsened by contact lens wear. Pre-existing dry eye syndrome can also be exacerbated, making lens wear uncomfortable and causing a burning sensation.
Immediate Steps to Take
When experiencing a burning sensation with contact lenses, the most immediate step is to remove them right away. Continuing to wear them can worsen irritation or potential damage to the eye.
Rinsing your eyes gently with a sterile saline solution or contact lens-safe artificial tears can help flush out irritants. Ensure that any drops used are specifically formulated for contact lenses, as some over-the-counter eye drops are not compatible. After rinsing, inspect the removed contact lenses for any visible damage, tears, or foreign debris that might have caused the discomfort.
Allow your eyes a significant break from contact lenses after experiencing burning. This period allows the eyes to recover from any irritation or inflammation. If symptoms subside completely after lens removal and eye rinsing, you may consider reinserting a fresh, properly cleaned pair of lenses after some time, provided the underlying issue was minor and resolved.
Preventative Strategies
Maintaining strict adherence to hygiene practices is essential in preventing contact lens-related burning. Always wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water and dry them with a lint-free towel before handling contact lenses. This practice significantly reduces the transfer of bacteria and debris to the lenses and your eyes.
Following the prescribed replacement schedule for your contact lenses is also essential; never over-wear lenses beyond their recommended daily, weekly, or monthly duration. Old lenses accumulate more protein deposits and become less permeable to oxygen over time, increasing the risk of irritation and burning. Always use fresh contact lens solution each time you clean and store your lenses, never topping off old solution.
Choosing appropriate lens solutions can also prevent discomfort. If you have sensitive eyes, consult with an eye care professional about preservative-free or hydrogen peroxide-based solutions, which may be less irritating. Staying adequately hydrated and blinking regularly helps maintain a healthy tear film, which is beneficial for comfortable lens wear.
Using rewetting drops specifically designed for contact lens wearers can provide additional lubrication throughout the day, especially in dry environments. If burning persists despite these measures, discuss trying a different lens material or type, such as daily disposables or silicone hydrogel lenses, with your eye care professional. These options might offer better comfort or oxygen permeability. Protecting your eyes from environmental factors like strong winds, smoke, and excessive dust by wearing protective eyewear can also minimize irritation.
When to Consult an Eye Care Professional
It is advisable to consult an eye care professional if you experience persistent burning or discomfort, even after removing your contact lenses. This ongoing sensation can indicate a more serious underlying issue that requires medical attention.
Seek professional advice immediately if the burning is accompanied by other concerning symptoms, such as severe eye pain, pronounced redness, unusual discharge, blurred vision, or increased sensitivity to light. These additional symptoms can be signs of an eye infection, an allergic reaction, or an injury to the cornea, all of which require prompt diagnosis and treatment.
If self-care measures and preventative strategies do not resolve the burning sensation, a professional evaluation is necessary to identify the root cause. Regular eye examinations are also necessary for all contact lens wearers to ensure eye health and proper lens fit.