Managing Dry Eye Symptoms While Wearing Contact Lenses

Many people with dry eyes shy away from contact lenses due to the belief that the two do not mix well. But with proper care and attention, it is possible to wear contacts and manage dry eye symptoms. Here are some tips to help make the experience as comfortable as possible.

Never Sleep in Your Contacts

Sleeping in contact lenses can increase the risk of developing an infection of your cornea. That can cause sores on the surface of your eye. Additionally, it can interfere with your natural tear film and exacerbate dry eyes.

Wash Your Hands Before Handling Your Lenses

Wash your hands thoroughly with water and mild soap before touching your contact lenses. Doing this will reduce the risk of transferring infection-causing pathogens from your fingers to your lenses and eyes.

Blink More

Blinking spreads tears across your eye’s surface. This keeps your eyes moist and comfortable. However, you might blink less frequently when concentrating on a task, like reading or using a computer. Increase your blink rate by reminding yourself to do so or using software or a reminder app.

Use Fresh Lenses As Directed

Follow the instructions on the box of your contacts regarding how often to wear a fresh pair. Even if you clean your lenses regularly, debris can build up on them over time. This can make it harder for tears to spread evenly across your eyeballs.

Use Rewetting Drops Even When Your Eyes Do Not Feel Dry

Artificial tears can help prevent dryness from occurring. Use them regularly to keep your eyes moisturized, even when they feel fine.

Change the Solution in Your Lens Case Daily

Dump out the old solution and replace it with a fresh one daily to reduce inflammation and infection risk.

Consider Special Lenses for Dry Eyes

If your brand of contact lenses is causing irritation, ask your doctor about special lenses designed for people with dry eyes. Examples of such lenses include scleral or bandage lenses.

Let Your Eyes Breathe

It is best to let your eyes breathe and get exposed to oxygen without lenses in the way. Take a break from your contact lenses for a few hours each day.

See Your Eye Doctor Regularly

Schedule regular eye exams to keep your prescription up-to-date and evaluate your tear film. Do not wait for problems to arise before seeing your eye doctor.

Proper Hydration and Nutrition

Proper hydration and nutrition can help prevent dry eye symptoms. Drink plenty of water and eat a diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids. This will help promote healthy tear production.

Reduce Screen Time

Excessive screen time can lead to dry eye symptoms or worsen the existing symptoms. Take frequent breaks and practice the 20-20-20 rule. Every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break and look at something 20 feet away.

Conclusion

Wearing contact lenses with dry eyes may require extra attention and care. Still, it is possible to manage the symptoms with the right strategies. Follow these tips to help keep your eyes healthy and comfortable while wearing contacts.

For more on dry eye syndrome, visit Atlanta Eye Group at our Atlanta, Kennesaw, or Alpharetta, Georgia, offices. Call (772) 272-9470 to schedule an appointment today.