How To Wear Contacts With Dry Eyes

How to Wear Contacts with Dry Eyes: A Comprehensive Guide

Dry eyes and contact lenses can seem like a frustrating combination. The discomfort of dry eyes is amplified when wearing contacts, but with the right approach, you can successfully manage both. This guide offers practical tips and tricks for comfortable contact lens wear, even if you suffer from dry eyes.

Understanding the Challenge: Dry Eyes and Contact Lenses

Dry eyes occur when your eyes don't produce enough tears or produce poor-quality tears, leading to irritation, burning, and discomfort. Contact lenses, by their nature, can exacerbate this issue. The lenses themselves can absorb some of your natural tear film, further drying out your eyes. This is especially true with certain types of contact lenses and in certain environments.

Identifying Your Dry Eye Triggers

Before diving into solutions, it's crucial to pinpoint what triggers your dry eyes. Common culprits include:

• Environmental factors: Dry air (especially in air-conditioned spaces), wind, and smoke can all contribute to dryness.
• Medications: Certain medications, including antihistamines and antidepressants, can have dry eye as a side effect.
• Medical conditions: Conditions like Sjogren's syndrome and rheumatoid arthritis can lead to chronic dry eye.
• Screen time: Prolonged screen use often leads to reduced blinking, causing eye dryness.

Strategies for Comfortable Contact Lens Wear with Dry Eyes

Here's a breakdown of strategies to minimize discomfort and maximize comfort while wearing contacts if you have dry eyes:

1. Choose the Right Contact Lenses

Lens material: Consider daily disposable lenses. These lenses minimize protein and lipid deposits that can irritate dry eyes. Silicone hydrogel lenses are also excellent as they allow more oxygen to reach your corneas, promoting healthier eyes.

Lens type: Scleral lenses can be a good option for severe dry eye as they create a reservoir of artificial tears. Discuss this option with your eye doctor.

2. Optimize Your Eye Care Routine

• Artificial tears: Regularly use artificial tears throughout the day, especially when you feel dryness. Choose preservative-free options to minimize irritation.
• Hydrating drops: Some lubricating eye drops offer additional hydration beyond basic artificial tears.
• Humidifier: Use a humidifier, particularly in dry climates or during winter months, to increase moisture in the air.
• Blink frequently: Consciously blink more often, especially during prolonged screen use. This helps to naturally lubricate your eyes.

3. Lifestyle Adjustments

• Limit screen time: Take regular breaks from screens to reduce eye strain and dryness. Follow the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds.
• Hydration: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated, which helps maintain tear production.
• Protect your eyes: Wear sunglasses to shield your eyes from wind, sun, and other environmental factors that can worsen dry eyes.

4. Consult Your Eye Doctor

Regular check-ups with your eye doctor are essential, especially if you experience persistent dry eye symptoms. They can assess your condition, recommend appropriate contact lenses, and suggest additional treatment options if necessary. Don't hesitate to discuss any concerns or discomfort you're experiencing.

Conclusion

Wearing contacts with dry eyes doesn't have to be a constant battle. By carefully selecting your contact lenses, optimizing your eye care routine, and making necessary lifestyle adjustments, you can significantly improve your comfort and maintain healthy eyes. Remember, consulting your eye doctor is key to finding the best solution for your individual needs.