Dry contact lenses are a prevalent issue for many wearers, often causing irritation, grittiness, or blurred vision. This discomfort can disrupt daily activities. While contact lenses offer convenient vision correction, various factors can contribute to dryness.
Environmental and Daily Habits
External environmental conditions and personal habits can influence contact lens comfort by affecting the tear film. Dry air, wind, or low humidity can cause tears to evaporate quickly. This increased evaporation leads to a less stable tear film, making contact lenses feel dry.
Extended screen time, such as using digital devices, can reduce blink rate. A lower blink rate means the eyes are not adequately lubricated, leading to dryness and irritation. Additionally, exposure to irritants like smoke or pollution can exacerbate eye dryness and discomfort, impacting lens hydration.
Contact Lens Specific Factors
Contact lenses and their care routines play a significant role in causing dryness. The lens material impacts moisture retention; paradoxically, higher water content lenses may draw moisture from the eye, leading to dryness for some. Silicone hydrogel lenses, for example, are designed to allow more oxygen to reach the eye, which can help reduce dryness compared to older hydrogel materials.
An improper lens fit can cause discomfort by interfering with the natural exchange of tears beneath the lens. This can lead to reduced oxygen flow to the cornea, contributing to dryness and irritation. Inadequate cleaning or storage of lenses, using incompatible solutions, or extending wear beyond recommended schedules can lead to deposit buildup, which can irritate the eye and absorb moisture, resulting in a gritty sensation. Expired lenses can also degrade and lose their ability to retain moisture, contributing to dryness.
Health and Eye Conditions
Underlying health and eye conditions can contribute to dry contact lens discomfort. Chronic dry eye syndrome, characterized by insufficient tear production or poor tear quality, makes comfortable lens wear challenging. Allergies, particularly ocular allergies, can cause inflammation, itching, and redness, which can be exacerbated by contact lens wear.
Certain medications can reduce tear production, leading to dry eyes. These include antihistamines, decongestants, some antidepressants, and medications for high blood pressure or Parkinson’s disease. Systemic conditions like Sjögren’s syndrome, an autoimmune disorder, directly affect moisture-producing glands, leading to dry eyes and making lens wear difficult. Diabetes can also increase the risk of dry eye syndrome due to its impact on nerves and blood vessels that affect tear production and quality. Thyroid disorders can similarly affect tear composition and secretion.
Steps to Relieve Discomfort
To alleviate discomfort from dry contact lenses, several strategies can be employed. Using rewetting drops specifically formulated for contact lenses can provide immediate moisture and help remove debris. These drops can be applied as needed throughout the day without removing the lenses. Ensuring adequate hydration by drinking enough water supports overall eye moisture.
Practicing conscious blinking, especially during prolonged screen time, helps distribute the tear film evenly across the eye surface. Making environmental adjustments, such as using a humidifier indoors, can increase air moisture and reduce tear evaporation. Strictly adhering to the prescribed lens care routine, including cleaning solutions and replacement schedules, helps prevent irritation. If discomfort persists, consulting an eye care professional is advisable for a proper diagnosis and personalized solutions, which might include different lens types, prescription eye drops, or specialized lenses like scleral lenses.