Experiencing eye pain after removing contact lenses is a common concern. This discomfort can range from mild irritation to intense pain, sometimes with other symptoms. Understanding the causes is important for maintaining eye health and comfortable lens wear.
Common Reasons for Discomfort
Dry eyes are a frequent cause of discomfort after removing contact lenses. Lenses can reduce natural tear flow and oxygen supply to the cornea, leading to persistent dryness. This makes eyes feel parched or irritated until they rehydrate. Dry eye syndrome occurs when tears cannot adequately lubricate the eyes, often due to insufficient production or poor quality.
Over-wearing contact lenses contributes to post-removal pain. Wearing lenses longer than recommended, or sleeping in them when not designed for overnight use, deprives the cornea of oxygen. This can damage corneal surface cells and increase irritation. Over-wear can also lead to lenses becoming misshapen or accumulating deposits like protein, microorganisms, and allergens, causing discomfort after removal.
Physical issues with the contact lens itself can irritate the eye. A torn or damaged lens, or a foreign particle like dust or an eyelash trapped beneath it, can cause friction and minor corneal abrasions. These scratches may not be immediately apparent but can lead to pain or a gritty sensation once the lens is removed.
Poor contact lens hygiene is another common factor causing discomfort. Improper cleaning, rinsing, or storage allows bacteria and microorganisms to accumulate on the lens or in the case. This can lead to irritation or minor infections noticeable after lens removal. Using tap water to rinse or store lenses significantly increases the risk of severe ocular infections.
Minor corneal abrasions can result from improper lens insertion or removal, or from foreign bodies rubbing against the eye while the lens is in place. Even after lens removal, the irritated cornea can cause a sensation that something is still present. Allergies, whether to environmental allergens or contact lens solution components, can also cause eye irritation, dryness, and pain persisting after lens removal.
When to Seek Professional Care
Certain symptoms indicate a need for professional medical attention. Severe or worsening eye pain, especially if persisting for more than a few hours, warrants immediate consultation with an eye care professional.
Significant redness or inflammation of the eye is a warning sign. If unusual or accompanied by other symptoms, it can point to an eye infection. Pus or discharge from the eye also indicates a potential infection, requiring prompt evaluation.
Extreme sensitivity to light (photophobia) can be a symptom of serious conditions like keratitis or corneal ulcers. Sudden changes in vision, such as blurriness or decreased sharpness coupled with pain, also demand immediate medical assessment. A persistent foreign body sensation not resolving with rinsing could signify a corneal issue.
Pain with headache or nausea can signal a more widespread problem or severe eye condition. Conditions like keratitis (corneal inflammation or infection) or corneal ulcers (open sores) can result from contact lens use and lead to serious vision loss if untreated. These can be caused by bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites. If any concerning symptoms appear, remove contact lenses immediately and seek prompt evaluation from an optometrist or ophthalmologist.
Preventing Future Eye Pain
Preventing future eye pain involves adopting specific habits and best practices for contact lens wear. Strictly follow the prescribed wear schedule; never wear lenses longer than recommended or sleep in them unless advised by an eye care professional.
Proper lens care and hygiene are fundamental to avoiding discomfort and infection. Lenses should be regularly cleaned and disinfected according to manufacturer instructions and your eye care provider’s guidance. This includes washing hands thoroughly with soap and water before handling lenses, rubbing and rinsing lenses with fresh solution, and never using tap water or saliva. The lens case should also be cleaned with fresh solution, allowed to air dry, and replaced every three months to prevent bacterial buildup.
Regular replacement of contact lenses and cases is important, as lenses can accumulate protein deposits and microorganisms over time, even with proper cleaning. Using lubricating eye drops designed for contact lens wearers helps maintain eye moisture throughout the day. These drops alleviate dryness and discomfort; preservative-free options are often recommended for frequent use to avoid further irritation.
Staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water helps maintain natural eye moisture, supporting overall eye health. Annual eye examinations with an eye care professional are important to ensure contact lenses remain suitable and to monitor overall eye health. During these exams, your doctor can assess changes in your eyes or vision and recommend adjustments to your lens type or care routine. Different lens types, such as daily disposables or silicone hydrogel, may offer better comfort and oxygen permeability.
Immediate Relief Strategies
When experiencing eye pain after removing contact lenses, immediate steps can provide temporary relief. First, remove contact lenses and allow eyes to rest. Giving eyes a break from contact lens wear, perhaps by wearing glasses, can help them recover.
Gently rinsing the eye with a sterile saline solution can help flush out any remaining debris or irritants, especially if a foreign body sensation persists. Using over-the-counter lubricating eye drops formulated for contact lens wearers can soothe irritation and provide moisture to dry eyes. Preservative-free artificial tears are often recommended for sensitive eyes or frequent application.
Applying a cold compress to closed eyelids can reduce swelling, inflammation, and pain. A clean washcloth soaked in cool water can be used for 10-15 minutes. For dry eye discomfort, a warm compress can help stimulate oil glands, improving tear quality and providing soothing relief. This can involve a warm, damp cloth placed over closed eyes for 5-10 minutes.
Avoid rubbing the eye, as this can worsen irritation, cause further damage, or introduce contaminants. While these strategies offer immediate comfort, they are first steps for minor irritation. If pain or other concerning symptoms persist or worsen, seek professional medical attention promptly.