For many people, contact lenses feel perfect in the morning and cause no discomfort. But by the afternoon, their eyes may feel dry, itchy, or irritated. You may think that this is just part of wearing contacts, but that doesn’t have to be the case. At EyeQ Optical in Spokane Valley, we help patients wear contact lenses comfortably all day, so you can focus on your day instead of your eyes.
In this blog, we’ll go over common reasons contact lenses cause irritation and share tips to keep your eyes healthy, hydrated, and comfortable.
Why do my contact lenses irritate my eyes?
Discomfort can happen for several reasons, and sometimes it’s a combination of factors. Some common causes include:
- Improper lens fit: Lenses that don’t match your eye shape or size can rub and create irritation.
- Lens material: Certain materials may dry out faster or may not suit sensitive eyes.
- Dry eyes: Long hours on screens, air-conditioned spaces, or low humidity can cause dry eyes.
- Hygiene habits: Skipping proper cleaning or failing to replace your lens case can result in irritation or infection.
- Overwear: Wearing lenses longer than recommended or sleeping in them can strain your eyes.
Tips for preventing and reducing contact lens irritation
Here’s how to keep your eyes feeling great while wearing contact lenses:
Ensure your lenses fit correctly
A proper fit is essential. During a contact lens exam, our experienced optometrist ensures your lenses are the perfect fit for your eyes’ shape and prescription.
For those with dry eyes or irregular corneas, scleral lenses can be an excellent option. They rest on the sclera (the white of your eye) instead of the cornea and hold a layer of moisture against the eye, providing comfort that lasts all day.
Choose the right lens type
Daily disposables or lenses designed for sensitive eyes help maintain moisture and reduce irritation.
Practice good lens hygiene
Wash your hands before handling lenses, clean your lens case regularly, and follow your optometrist’s instructions for cleaning solutions.
Give your eyes a break
Avoid wearing lenses longer than recommended, and let your eyes rest by wearing glasses when possible.
Keep your eyes hydrated
Use lubricating drops approved for contact lenses and drink plenty of water to prevent dryness and irritation.
When to schedule an eye exam
Even if you follow all the best practices, eye irritation can still happen. If your eyes stay red, sore, or uncomfortable, it’s a good idea to schedule an eye exam.
Our optometrist can check for allergies, prescription changes, or lens fit issues and suggest solutions to improve comfort. Sometimes a small change—like trying a different lens type or switching to scleral lenses—can make a big difference in how your eyes feel.
See clearly and comfortably, all day long
Wearing contact lenses shouldn’t be a source of discomfort—it should make your life easier. At EyeQ Optical, we work with you to ensure your lenses fit perfectly and keep your eyes feeling healthy and hydrated. From everyday contacts to scleral lenses for added moisture and comfort, we’ll help you find the right solution so your eyes can stay comfortable from morning to night.
Book your contact lens exam at EyeQ Optical today and enjoy clear, irritation-free vision every day.
