VOLUME 32: Why Do Your Contact Lenses Feel Dry?

Contact lenses offer a convenient alternative to glasses but can sometimes feel dry and uncomfortable. This discomfort may disrupt daily activities and impact your quality of life. This guide will look at the common reasons for dry contact lenses and provide helpful tips to prevent and manage this issue.

What causes dry contact lenses?

Several factors can contribute to dryness when wearing contact lenses. Some common causes include:

• Dehydration: Not drinking enough water throughout the day can lead to dry eyes.
• Dry Air: Low humidity, especially during Canadian winters or in air-conditioned environments, can cause eye dryness.
• Eye Allergies: Allergens such as pollen, dust, or pet dander can irritate the eyes and lead to dryness.
• Medications: Some medications, like antihistamines, decongestants, or antidepressants, may cause dry eyes.
• Age: Tear production tends to decline as you age, contributing to dryness.
• Eye Conditions: Conditions like blepharitis, keratitis, or dry eye syndrome increase the risk of dry contact lenses.

Are you wearing the correct type of contact lenses?

The type of contact lenses you choose plays a significant role in comfort. If you struggle with dry eyes, switching to a different lens type may help, such as:

• Daily Disposable Lenses: Ideal for dry eyes, these lenses are replaced daily, minimising the buildup of allergens and irritants.
• Moisture-Retaining Lenses: Lenses made from moisture-retaining materials are designed to provide added comfort for dry eyes.

How does your eye health impact contact lens comfort?

Your overall eye health can affect how comfortable your contact lenses feel. Conditions such as dry eye syndrome or blepharitis should be treated to improve comfort.

• Dry Eye Syndrome: The causes of dry eye syndrome include ageing, medications, environmental factors, and certain medical conditions.
• Blepharitis: Inflammation of the eyelids, which can cause dry eyes, often makes wearing contact lenses more difficult.

The role of hydration in contact lens comfort

Staying hydrated is crucial for keeping your eyes healthy and avoiding dryness. Ensure you:

• Stay Hydrated: Aim for at least eight glasses of water a day.
• Use Artificial Tears: These can provide temporary relief if your eyes feel dry.

Importance of proper lens care and cleaning

Proper care and cleaning are essential to avoid eye infections and ensure lens comfort. Follow these steps:

• Clean Your Lenses Daily: Use a cleaning solution recommended by your optometrist.
• Store Lenses Properly: Store your lenses in a clean case with a fresh solution.
• Replace Lens Case: Swap out your lens case every three months.

Symptoms of dry contact lenses

If your contact lenses feel dry, watch for these symptoms:

• Burning or Stinging: A gritty or burning sensation is familiar with dry eyes.
• Redness: Dry eyes can cause irritation and redness.
• Blurred Vision: Dryness may make your vision appear blurry.
• Light Sensitivity: Eyes can become more sensitive to light when dry.
• Foreign Body Sensation: You may feel like something is in your eye, often due to dryness.

Tips to prevent dryness when wearing contact lenses

To avoid dry eyes while wearing contact lenses, consider the following:

• Take Breaks: Remove your contact lenses for a few hours if your eyes feel tired or dry.
• Avoid Rubbing Your Eyes: Try blinking to refresh your eyes instead of rubbing.
• Use a Humidifier: Moisture can help, especially during Canada’s dry seasons.
• Wear Sunglasses: Sunglasses protect your eyes from the sun and help reduce glare that can irritate dry eyes.
• Limit Screen Time: Prolonged screen use can dry out your eyes, so take regular breaks.
• Get Regular Eye Exams: Routine check-ups can detect underlying conditions contributing to dryness.

When should you consult an eye care professional?

If your dry eyes persist, consult an eye care professional. They can diagnose the cause and suggest appropriate treatment.

Is it time to try a different type of contact lens?

If dryness persists despite trying various solutions, consider switching to a different type of contact lens. Your optometrist can recommend the best options for dry eye relief.

Dresden Vision: Your Eye Care Partner in Canada

Dresden Vision is dedicated to providing top-quality contact lenses and eye care. If you’re experiencing dry eyes or discomfort, our experienced professionals can assess your needs and recommend the best solutions. Contact Dresden Vision today to schedule an appointment and find relief from dry eyes.