When contact lenses do not adhere properly to the eye, it can be a frustrating experience, leading to discomfort and vision clarity concerns. Various factors contribute to lenses not staying in place, from eye conditions to lens handling. Understanding these underlying reasons is the first step toward finding effective solutions and maintaining comfortable contact lens wear.
Common Causes for Lenses Not Sticking
A common reason contact lenses might not stay put involves the natural state of your eyes, particularly the tear film. Insufficient tear production, often referred to as dry eyes, can prevent the lens from adhering smoothly to the eye’s surface. Environmental factors like low humidity or prolonged screen use can worsen tear evaporation, creating a less stable surface. Certain medications can also reduce tear production, further contributing to lens instability.
The contact lens itself can be a source of the problem. Lenses can accumulate protein, lipid deposits, dirt, or debris, altering the surface and making it less likely to stick or causing irritation. A damaged or expired lens may lose its structural integrity, affecting its ability to conform to the eye’s curvature. Furthermore, if the lens’s base curve or diameter does not precisely match the eye’s shape, it can result in a loose fit, causing the lens to move excessively or dislodge.
Application and care practices also play a significant role in lens adherence. Inserting a contact lens inside out will prevent it from sitting correctly, causing discomfort and dislodgement. Trapped air bubbles between the lens and the eye can disrupt the suction effect needed for proper adherence, leading to discomfort and instability. Using expired or incompatible cleaning solutions, or not cleaning hands thoroughly before handling lenses, can introduce contaminants that interfere with lens-eye interaction.
Solutions and Prevention Strategies
Maintaining proper lens hygiene is foundational for lens adherence. Always use fresh, unexpired contact lens solution for cleaning, rinsing, and storing your lenses. Regularly replacing your contact lens case, typically every three months, helps prevent bacteria and biofilm buildup. Adhering strictly to the prescribed lens replacement schedule ensures optimal comfort and fit before lenses degrade.
Managing dry eye symptoms is important for improving lens adherence. Using rewetting drops specifically formulated for contact lenses provides immediate lubrication and helps stabilize the tear film, allowing the lens to settle comfortably. Consciously blinking more frequently, especially during reading or computer use, helps spread tears evenly. Staying hydrated by drinking enough water also contributes to tear production and eye moisture.
Refining your lens application technique can significantly impact lens adherence. Before handling lenses, wash hands thoroughly with soap and water, drying them completely with a lint-free towel to avoid transferring oils or debris. Always check the lens orientation; a correctly oriented lens has a smooth, bowl-like curve. When inserting, ensure no air bubbles are trapped by gently pressing it onto the eye, allowing it to settle naturally.
When Professional Guidance is Needed
If contact lenses consistently do not stick despite proper care and application, seek professional guidance. Persistent discomfort, blurred vision, or frequent dislodgement may indicate an underlying issue requiring an eye care professional’s assessment. These symptoms could point to a need for a different lens fit, material, or prescription.
Symptoms like persistent redness, pain, unusual discharge, or increased light sensitivity warrant immediate attention. These signs could indicate an eye infection or inflammation requiring prompt diagnosis and treatment. An eye care professional can also evaluate for underlying eye conditions, such as severe dry eye disease or ocular allergies, which may necessitate specific medical management for safe and comfortable lens wear.