Tips for Relieving Eye Discomfort from Contacts: Effective Solutions
As someone who has worn contact lenses for years, I can relate to the occasional discomfort and irritation that can come with them. Whether it’s dryness, a foreign body feeling, or just general irritation, dealing with eye discomfort from contacts is something many of us face at some point. Over the years, I’ve tried various methods to alleviate these issues, and in this article, I want to share the tips and tricks that have helped me find relief. These suggestions are not only easy to implement but also effective in making your contact lens experience more comfortable and enjoyable.
1. Ensure Proper Hygiene and Lens Care
One of the most important lessons I’ve learned over the years is that maintaining proper hygiene and cleaning habits for my contact lenses can go a long way in preventing discomfort. I’ve had my share of experiences with lens irritation, and I discovered that improper cleaning is often the culprit. Here are some essential hygiene tips that have helped me maintain a comfortable lens-wearing experience:
1.1. Clean Your Lenses Regularly
It might sound simple, but cleaning your lenses properly is key. I make sure to clean my contact lenses with a high-quality lens solution after every use. It’s important not to reuse old solution, as this can lead to bacterial buildup and cause irritation. I’ve found that taking a few extra minutes to clean my lenses thoroughly has greatly reduced the chances of discomfort.
1.2. Store Your Lenses Correctly
When I’m not wearing my contacts, I store them in a clean lens case with fresh solution. Over the years, I’ve learned that using a dirty or improperly cleaned lens case can transfer bacteria to the lenses, leading to discomfort and potential eye infections. A clean case helps ensure that my lenses are in good condition when I’m ready to wear them again.
1.3. Avoid Touching Your Lenses with Dirty Hands
Another simple yet effective tip that’s become a habit for me is washing my hands before handling my contact lenses. Touching the lenses with dirty hands can transfer oils and bacteria, which can lead to irritation. I always make sure to wash my hands thoroughly and dry them with a lint-free towel before putting in or taking out my lenses.
2. Stay Hydrated and Use Rewetting Drops
One of the most common causes of eye discomfort from contacts is dryness, which is something I’ve dealt with, especially in dry environments or when I’ve had long days at the computer. Staying hydrated has been crucial in reducing dryness, but I’ve also found that using rewetting eye drops makes a significant difference. Here’s how:
2.1. Drink Plenty of Water
Hydration plays a vital role in keeping my eyes moist and comfortable throughout the day. I’ve noticed that if I don’t drink enough water, my eyes tend to get drier and more irritated when wearing contact lenses. Staying hydrated ensures that my eyes have enough moisture to keep my lenses comfortable and my eyes healthy.
2.2. Use Rewetting Drops
Rewetting drops are my go-to solution whenever I feel dryness or discomfort from my contacts. These drops help hydrate my lenses and refresh my eyes, providing relief from that dry, scratchy feeling. I’ve found that using rewetting drops throughout the day—especially after long hours of screen time—keeps my eyes feeling more comfortable and prevents irritation. Make sure to choose a rewetting drop that’s compatible with your specific type of lenses, as some brands may cause discomfort for certain types of contacts.
3. Take Breaks and Avoid Prolonged Wear
Wearing contact lenses for extended periods can sometimes lead to discomfort, and I’ve learned the importance of taking breaks to give my eyes some relief. Over the years, I’ve found that allowing my eyes to rest helps reduce fatigue and discomfort. Here are a couple of strategies I use:
3.1. Follow the "20-20-20" Rule
If you’re like me and spend a lot of time in front of a computer, following the "20-20-20" rule has been a game-changer. Every 20 minutes, I take a 20-second break and look at something 20 feet away. This simple exercise helps reduce eye strain, giving my eyes a much-needed rest and preventing the feeling of dryness and discomfort that often comes with extended lens wear.
3.2. Consider Giving Your Eyes a Break from Contacts
I’ve found that sometimes, it’s best to give my eyes a break from contact lenses altogether. If I’m experiencing persistent discomfort, I’ll switch to glasses for a day or two. This not only gives my eyes a chance to rest but also helps prevent long-term irritation or strain. If I know I’m going to be in a dry environment or working long hours, I’ll opt for glasses to avoid unnecessary discomfort.
4. Choose the Right Type of Contact Lenses
Sometimes, the discomfort I experienced wasn’t due to improper care or hygiene, but rather the type of contact lenses I was using. I’ve learned that different lenses work better for different individuals, and finding the right fit is essential for comfort. Here’s what I’ve discovered:
4.1. Consider Daily Lenses
If you’re prone to irritation or discomfort, I recommend trying daily disposable lenses. I switched to daily lenses a while back, and I noticed a huge difference in comfort. Since I wear new lenses every day, there’s no buildup of proteins, lipids, or other substances that can cause irritation. It’s a convenient and hygienic option that has worked wonders for me.
4.2. Look for Lenses with High Oxygen Permeability
If you wear contact lenses for long hours, it’s important to choose lenses that allow for maximum oxygen flow to your eyes. I’ve found that lenses with high oxygen permeability keep my eyes feeling fresher for longer periods. These lenses help prevent dryness and irritation, as they allow my eyes to breathe and remain moisturized.
5. When to Consult an Eye Care Professional
While most cases of contact lens discomfort can be managed with the tips I’ve shared, there are times when it’s important to consult an eye care professional. If you experience persistent irritation, redness, or blurry vision, it may be a sign that something is wrong with your lenses, or that you need a different prescription. I’ve learned the hard way that ignoring discomfort can lead to more serious eye issues, so I always make it a point to see my optometrist if discomfort persists for more than a few days.
Ultimately, taking care of your contact lenses and eyes is essential to maintaining comfort and healthy vision. By following these tips and paying attention to your eye care routine, you can ensure that your experience with contact lenses remains as pleasant as possible.
