How to Relieve Eye Discomfort from Contact Lenses
If you’ve ever worn contact lenses, you probably know the discomfort that can arise from them. Whether it’s dryness, irritation, or that constant feeling of something being in your eye, contact lens discomfort is a common issue that many of us face. I’ve been there too, and as someone who’s worn contacts for years, I’ve experienced almost every type of discomfort imaginable. In this article, I’m going to share my personal experience and practical tips that have helped me—and many others—relieve eye discomfort from contact lenses.
1. Understanding the Cause of Your Discomfort
Before jumping into solutions, it’s important to understand what could be causing your discomfort. There are many reasons why contact lenses can cause irritation, and figuring out the root cause is essential for relief. Here are some common reasons:
- Dry Eyes: If your eyes aren’t producing enough moisture, your contacts can start to feel uncomfortable. This is especially common in dry environments or after long hours of wear.
- Dirty Lenses: Over time, debris and proteins can build up on your contacts, causing irritation.
- Improper Fit: If your lenses don’t fit your eyes correctly, they can rub against the surface of your eye, leading to discomfort.
- Allergic Reactions: Some people are allergic to the materials in certain types of contact lenses or the cleaning solutions used to disinfect them.
- Overwearing Lenses: Wearing contacts for too long without taking breaks can lead to eye fatigue and irritation.
2. Tip #1: Stay Hydrated and Use Artificial Tears
One of the most common causes of contact lens discomfort is dry eyes. I know from personal experience how irritating it can be when your eyes feel dry and scratchy. To combat this, I always recommend using a good-quality artificial tear solution. These eye drops are designed to lubricate your eyes and relieve the dryness caused by contact lenses. Make sure the drops are compatible with your contact lenses and that they’re designed specifically for contact lens wearers.
Also, don’t forget the importance of staying hydrated. Drinking plenty of water throughout the day can help maintain moisture levels in your eyes, which can make a noticeable difference in comfort. I try to keep a water bottle nearby as a reminder!
3. Tip #2: Clean Your Lenses Properly
If you’re experiencing discomfort from your contact lenses, it might be time to check how clean your lenses are. Over time, proteins and lipids from your tears can build up on the surface of the lenses, causing them to feel uncomfortable. I remember once when I was experiencing irritation, and I realized I hadn’t been cleaning my lenses properly. After switching to a better cleaning solution and regularly cleaning my lenses, the discomfort significantly decreased.
It’s crucial to follow the cleaning instructions provided by your eye care professional. Don’t skip steps or use expired solutions. Always store your lenses in a clean case and replace your case every few months. And never reuse old cleaning solution—this can introduce bacteria to your lenses and worsen the irritation.
4. Tip #3: Take Breaks from Your Lenses
Wearing your contact lenses for too long can lead to discomfort and even more serious eye issues. If you’re like me, you might get caught up in your day and forget to take breaks. However, I’ve found that taking regular breaks from wearing lenses has been key to avoiding discomfort.
Try the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break to look at something 20 feet away. This helps reduce eye strain, especially if you’re staring at a screen all day. If possible, give your eyes a rest by switching to glasses for a few hours or overnight. This will give your eyes a chance to breathe and recover.
5. Tip #4: Replace Your Lenses Regularly
Contact lenses don’t last forever, and wearing them beyond their recommended time frame can lead to discomfort. I once tried to extend the life of my lenses, thinking it was no big deal, but quickly realized it caused irritation and blurry vision. Now, I stick to the replacement schedule recommended by my optometrist.
If you wear daily contacts, be sure to dispose of them after each use. For monthly or extended wear lenses, make sure to replace them on the schedule suggested by your eye care provider. Fresh lenses are much more comfortable and less likely to cause irritation.
6. Tip #5: Choose the Right Lenses for Your Eyes
Not all contact lenses are created equal. Depending on your eye shape, lifestyle, and any underlying conditions (like dry eyes), certain types of lenses may be better suited to your needs. For instance, silicone hydrogel lenses allow more oxygen to reach your cornea, which can help with comfort, especially if you have dry eyes.
Consult your optometrist about the best type of lenses for your eyes. I was able to switch to a different type of lens after a consultation, and it made a world of difference in terms of comfort.
7. Tip #6: Visit Your Eye Care Professional
If you’ve tried all the at-home remedies and are still experiencing discomfort, it’s time to visit your eye care professional. Sometimes, discomfort can be a sign of an underlying issue, such as an eye infection, abrasion, or improperly fitting lenses. Your eye doctor can help diagnose the problem and recommend a solution. They may also check the health of your eyes to ensure there’s no damage caused by your contact lenses.
When I first started wearing contact lenses, I didn’t realize how important regular eye check-ups were. After I started seeing my optometrist for regular exams, my overall comfort with contacts improved dramatically.
8. Tip #7: Use Sufficient Lighting
Another simple but often overlooked solution to contact lens discomfort is using proper lighting. If you’re trying to read or work in dim light, you might squint, which can dry out your eyes and lead to discomfort. I’ve found that keeping my workspace well-lit and ensuring I have adequate light when I’m reading or working on my computer can significantly reduce irritation.
In conclusion, eye discomfort from contact lenses is a common issue, but it’s not something you have to live with. By taking proactive steps like staying hydrated, cleaning your lenses, taking breaks, and consulting your optometrist when needed, you can greatly reduce or eliminate discomfort and enjoy the benefits of wearing contact lenses without the irritation.
