Dry Eye and Extended Wear Contact Lenses: Tips for Comfortable Wear and Proper Hygiene

Dry eye is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It occurs when the eyes do not produce enough tears or when the tears evaporate too quickly. This can lead to discomfort, redness, and irritation. For contact lens wearers, dry eye can pose additional challenges. The contact lenses can further exacerbate the symptoms and make wearing them uncomfortable. It is important to understand the impact of dry eye on contact lens wearers in order to find solutions for comfortable wear.

Common Symptoms of Dry Eye and How it Affects Contact Lens Comfort

Dry eye can manifest in various symptoms, including stinging or burning sensations, redness, blurred vision, and increased sensitivity to light. These symptoms can significantly impact the comfort of contact lens wearers. When the eyes are dry, the contact lenses can cause friction and irritation, leading to discomfort and even pain. The lenses may also move around on the dry surface of the eyes, causing blurred vision and making it difficult to focus properly.
 

Additionally, dry eyes can affect the quality of vision while wearing contact lenses. Tear film on the surface of the eyes helps to maintain a smooth and clear optical surface for clear vision. When the eyes are dry, the tear film can break up, leading to distorted vision and reduced visual acuity.
 

Tips for Comfortable Contact Lens Wear with Dry Eye

While dry eye can present challenges for contact lens wearers, there are several tips that can help improve comfort:
 

1.     Use artificial tears: Lubricating eye drops, also known as artificial tears, can provide temporary relief for dry eye symptoms. These drops can be used throughout the day to keep the eyes moist and reduce discomfort while wearing contact lenses.

2.     Opt for contact lenses designed for dry eye: There are contact lenses specifically designed for individuals with dry eye. These lenses are made with materials that retain moisture and allow for increased oxygen flow to the eyes. They can help alleviate the discomfort associated with dry eye and improve overall comfort.

3.     Avoid environmental triggers: Dry eye symptoms can be aggravated by certain environmental factors such as dry air, wind, and smoke. Try to avoid these triggers as much as possible, and consider using protective eyewear, such as wraparound sunglasses, to shield your eyes from drying elements.
 

Proper Hygiene Practices for Contact Lens Wearers

Maintaining proper hygiene is essential for contact lens wearers, particularly those with dry eye. Here are some important practices to follow:
 

• Wash your hands thoroughly: Before handling your contact lenses, always wash your hands with soap and water. This helps prevent the transfer of dirt, bacteria, and other contaminants onto your lenses and into your eyes.
• Clean and disinfect your lenses properly: Follow the instructions provided by your eye care professional for cleaning and disinfecting your contact lenses. Use the recommended lens solution and avoid using tap water or homemade solutions, as they can introduce harmful microorganisms to your eyes.
• Replace your lenses as recommended: Contact lenses have a limited lifespan and wearing them beyond their recommended replacement schedule can increase the risk of eye infections and discomfort. Follow the guidelines provided by your optometrist regarding the frequency of lens replacement.
• Store your lenses correctly: When you're not wearing your contact lenses, store them in a clean lens case filled with fresh solution. Avoid reusing old solution and make sure to replace your lens case regularly to prevent bacterial buildup.
• Avoid wearing lenses while swimming: Swimming with contact lenses, especially in pools or hot tubs, increases the risk of eye infections. The water can contain harmful bacteria and microorganisms that can adhere to your lenses and cause irritation or infection.
• Regular eye exams allow your eye care professional to monitor the health of your eyes and detect dry eye symptoms early on. Early detection can lead to prompt treatment and prevent further discomfort and complications. Eye exams allow your eye doctor to assess the fit and condition of your contact lenses. Ill-fitting or damaged lenses can contribute to dry eye symptoms and discomfort.

Ensuring Clear, Comfortable, and Healthy Vision

By understanding the impact of dry eye on contact lens comfort and following a proper lens cleaning routine, contact lens wearers can find relief and enjoy comfortable wear. Regular eye exams are essential for maintaining optimal eye health and ensuring that contact lenses are suitable for individuals with dry eye. By following these guidelines and seeking professional advice, contact lens wearers can enjoy the benefits of clear vision without compromising comfort and eye health.
 

For further guidance on how to manage dry eye while wearing contact lenses, visit The Eye Care Studio at our office in Delaware, Ohio, or call (740) 306-3600 to schedule an appointment today.