Contact Lens Discomfort
While modern contact lenses are designed to be very comfortable for most wearers, it is not uncommon to experience some discomfort. In fact, about half of former contact lens users report that they stopped wearing their lenses because they were uncomfortable.
But don't grab those glasses just yet! There are several different causes for contact lens discomfort, many with simple solutions. With a little help from your eye care professional, you will most likely be feeling and seeing great in no time!
Read on to learn more about the most common causes of contact lens discomfort.
Ill-fitting lenses
Contact lenses are not one-size-fits-all. There are two numbers in your prescription that determine the size of your lens: the diameter, and the base curve, both of which are measured in millimeters.
When you saw your eye care professional for your contact lens fitting, he or she took measurements of your eye and prescribed contact lenses that seemed the best match for your eyes' size and shape. Sometimes this initial prescription is not perfect, and the size may need to be adjusted.
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If you feel like something is in your eye whenever you wear your contacts, it is possible that your lenses are not quite the right size for you. If the lens is too large, it will not sit properly on the eye and will be dislodged by the motion of your eyelid when you blink. This can feel very uncomfortable and, if left untreated, can cause abrasions on your cornea. It is important to return to your eye doctor for a new prescription if you believe your lenses might be the wrong size.
Improperly used or cared for lenses
Contact lenses must be used as directed for maximum comfort. Unless you are using daily disposables, your lenses must be cleaned frequently to remove lipid and protein deposits which accumulate naturally from your tears.
You must also make sure you are following the manufacturer's guidelines for wearing and replacement of the lenses. Do not wear your contacts for longer than recommended (for example, do not wear the lenses overnight unless they are specifically designed for it), and replace the lenses as often as directed.
A little common sense about lens care will also go a long way. When cleaning your lenses, only use an appropriate contact lens solution, never tap water, and use fresh solution each day. Wash your hands before inserting your lenses, and keep your fingernails short and smooth so that you do not damage your lenses or eyes during insertion. If you will be using aerosol products, such as hairspray, during your morning routine, do so before inserting your lenses whenever possible.
Dry eyes
If your eyes are not properly lubricated with tears, your lenses will likely cause you some discomfort. Fortunately, many cases of dry eye can be treated with over-the-counter or prescription eye drops. However, you should speak to your eye care professional before using any eye drops, as not all drops are compatible with all contact lenses.
Causes of dry eyes include:
- Caffeine or alcohol consumption
- Smoking
- Frequent computer use (sometimes called "Computer Vision Syndrome")
- Prescription and over-the-counter medications (including antihistamines, decongestants, blood pressure medications, sleeping pills, birth control pills, certain antidepressants, some acne medications, and opiate-based pain relievers)
- Medical conditions (including Sjogren's syndrome, diabetes, thyroid problems, rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, menopausal hormone changes, vitamin A deficiency, and certain skin conditions)
- Refractive surgery, such as LASIK
Allergens and dust
If you have allergies, allergens in your environment, such as pollen or animal dander, can stick to your lenses and irritate your eyes. Similarly, if your work environment is very dusty, dust particles can accumulate on your lenses. You can minimize these problems by keeping your contact lenses as clean as possible (which may mean cleaning more frequently or with a different method or solution), or by switching to daily disposable lenses.
Other underlying medical conditions
If your eyes are not healthy, your contact lenses will not be comfortable. If you are experiencing eye pain or discharge and/or have red or swollen eyes, you should stop wearing your lenses and see your eye doctor as soon as possible. You most likely have an eye infection or other condition that requires immediate treatment. Untreated eye infections can potentially lead to scaring of the cornea and permanent vision loss.
Diagnosing your contact lens discomfort
If your contact lenses are uncomfortable, be sure to see your eye care professional as soon as possible to discuss possible causes and solutions. Don't put off the visit because you are afraid of the outcome; remember that most problems can be solved with simple remedies such as a new prescription, changes in your lens care routine, or eye drops. It is very unlikely that you will be told to stop wearing contact lenses altogether.
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