Wearing contact lenses can be life-changing for many people. They can help improve vision, offer convenience, and enhance your appearance. However, some people may experience dry eye and irritation when wearing contacts. This can be due to a variety of factors including environmental conditions, lens type, and personal habits. In this blog post, we’ll discuss tips for preventing these issues so that you can enjoy comfortable and clear vision.
1. Stay hydrated
One of the top causes of contact lens dryness is dehydration. When your body doesn’t get enough water, your tear production decreases, which can cause dry eye and discomfort. To prevent this, make sure you’re drinking enough water throughout the day. Experts recommend drinking at least eight glasses of water daily to stay hydrated.
2. Practice good hygiene
Contact lenses need to be cleaned and disinfected properly to reduce the risk of infection and irritation. Always wash your hands thoroughly before handling lenses and follow the recommended cleaning and wearing schedule. Avoid using tap water or saliva to rinse lenses, as this can introduce harmful bacteria.
3. Use lubricating eye drops
Dryness and irritation can be caused by a lack of moisture on the eye’s surface. Lubricating eye drops can help provide relief and improve comfort. Use drops specifically formulated for contact lenses and avoid those with preservatives that can damage lenses and irritate the eyes. Consult with an eye doctor before using any over-the-counter eye drops.
4. Take breaks and avoid over-wearing lenses
Extended contact lens wear can cause dryness, discomfort, and even damage to the eyes. Try to limit wearing time to no more than 10-12 hours a day, and never sleep in your contacts unless advised by an eye doctor. Taking breaks from wearing lenses, especially during long screen time sessions or in dry environments, can also help prevent dryness and discomfort.
5. Be aware of your environment
Environmental conditions can affect contact lens comfort, such as humidity, wind, and air conditioning. Avoid exposing lenses to excessive heat or cold, and wear sunglasses to protect your eyes from UV rays and wind. Also, consider using a humidifier at home or work to add moisture to the air.
6. Choose the right contact lens for your eyes
Choosing the right contact lenses can make all the difference in your comfort level. Talk to your eye doctor and discuss what lenses you currently use, and whether or not switching to a different type of lens could be more comfortable. Wearing contact lenses that aren’t the right fit for your eyes could cause irritation and discomfort, leading you to abandon wearing them altogether.
In conclusion, dry and irritated eyes can be a common issue for contact lens wearers. But with the right precautions and care, you can enjoy comfortable and healthy eyes while wearing contact lenses. Be sure to follow these tips and schedule an eye exam with us if you experience any issues with your contact lenses.