Dry Eyes with Contact Lenses: What You Should Know

Why Do I Have Dry Eyes When Wearing Contact Lenses?

Dry eyes when wearing contact lenses is a common issue. The causes can vary, ranging from unsuitable lens types to environmental factors.

Insufficient Tear Production

In order for contact lenses to feel comfortable, your eyes need an adequate amount of tear fluid. This allows the contact lenses to “float” and not sit directly on the eye's surface. If your eyes naturally produce too little tear fluid or the tear film is unstable, contact lenses can quickly lead to a feeling of dryness. This is especially common among people who are naturally prone to dry eyes or suffer from certain underlying conditions such as Sjögren's syndrome.

The Wrong Contact Lenses

Not every type of contact lens suits every eye. Some contact lenses are thicker or less oxygen-permeable, which can put additional strain on the eyes. Silicone hydrogel lenses, for instance, are a good choice for many users, but not ideal for everyone. Rigid (gas-permeable) contact lenses may also cause increased dryness for some, as they retain less moisture than soft contact lenses.

The quality of the contact lenses also plays a crucial role. Budget options from the chemist are often not as comfortable as individually fitted contact lenses from a specialist. If your contact lenses don't seem to fit properly, it may even be a case of contact lens intolerance.

Wearing Lenses Too Long

Contact lenses should not be worn all day – especially if you're already prone to dry eyes. The longer the contact lenses remain in your eyes, the more moisture they draw from your tear film. Sleeping in contact lenses is particularly problematic, as it can not only worsen dryness but also increase the risk of infection. Be sure to change your contact lenses regularly and not to exceed the maximum recommended wearing time.

Screen Time and Reduced Blinking

Those who work extensively on computers or smartphones tend to blink less – this has been scientifically proven. While we normally blink about 15 times per minute, this number can halve during intense screen work. This causes the tear film to evaporate more quickly, which can be especially uncomfortable when wearing contact lenses. It’s important to be aware of the risks associated with contact lenses, as improper use can exacerbate dry eyes.

Dry Air and Environmental Factors

Air conditioning, heating, wind or smoke can all dry out the eyes. Many contact lens wearers experience worse dryness during the winter months due to dry indoor heating. Wearing contact lenses on planes can also be problematic, as cabin air is extremely dry.

Unsuitable Care Products or Dirty Contact Lenses

Not all contact lens solutions are suitable for every eye. Some contain preservatives that can irritate the eyes. Wearing improperly cleaned or worn-out contact lenses can also lead to dry eyes and irritation. Monthly contact lenses in particular require regular, thorough cleaning to avoid deposits. If you're unsure about your lens care routine, seek advice from your optician – or consider using disposable daily contact lenses, which are discarded after one day and do not require cleaning.

Symptoms of Dry Eyes

Dry eyes can present with a range of symptoms:

• Burning or itching sensation
• Feeling like there's something in your eye
• Redness of the conjunctiva
• Blurred vision that improves with blinking
• Sensitivity to light
• Tired or heavy eyelids
• Excessive tearing as a reaction to dryness
• Pain or stinging in the eyes

What Can You Do About It?

Dry eyes while wearing contact lenses can be quite uncomfortable. Fortunately, there are several simple ways to relieve the symptoms:

• Use Hydrating Eye Drops: Apply moisturising eye drops that are specifically designed for contact lens wearers. Ideally, choose preservative-free drops to keep your eyes well hydrated without causing additional irritation.
• Switch to Glasses Instead of Contact Lenses: If your eyes are feeling particularly dry, give them a break by wearing glasses for a while. This helps prevent further strain and allows your eyes time to recover.
• Consult an Optician or Eye Specialist: If the discomfort persists, it’s important to see an optician or ophthalmologist. They can identify the underlying cause of your dry eyes while wearing contact lenses and recommend appropriate solutions.

Best Contact Lenses For Dry Eyes

For people with dry eyes, silicone hydrogel lenses are often highly recommended. They offer high oxygen permeability and help reduce moisture loss from the eye’s surface. Daily disposable contact lenses are also a great option, as they tend to accumulate fewer deposits and provide increased comfort throughout the day.

Monthly contact lenses with special wetting technology, or soft contact lenses that are changed regularly, can also work well. They help minimise deposits and keep your eyes comfortably moist for longer periods.

For particularly sensitive eyes, rigid gas-permeable lenses may be worth considering. Although it can take some time to adjust to hard contact lenses, they may offer long-term comfort. They tend to cause less irritation to the cornea compared to traditional soft contact lenses, making them more comfortable for many wearers.

If you’re unsure which contact lenses are best for you, it’s important to consult an optician or eye specialist. They can help you make the right decision and find a solution tailored to your needs.

How to Prevent Dry Eyes When Wearing Contact Lenses

Dry eyes don’t have to be inevitable – with a few simple measures, you can significantly reduce the issue:

• Choose the Right Contact Lenses: Opt for silicone hydrogel lenses or specialised moisture-retaining contact lenses that provide better oxygen supply to your eyes. These lenses help keep your eyes hydrated even during extended wear and reduce the risk of dry eyes.
• Stick to Recommended Wearing Times: Never wear your contact lenses for longer than advised. Even when you’re short on time, give your eyes regular breaks and only wear contact lenses for as long as they feel comfortable.
• Blink Regularly: Conscious blinking helps distribute the tear film more effectively, preventing your eyes from drying out too quickly. Make a habit of blinking every few seconds, especially during prolonged screen use.
• Use Hydrating Eye Drops: Lubricating drops formulated for contact lens users help keep your eyes moist. Make sure to choose preservative-free products to avoid irritation.
• Don’t Neglect Lens Care: Clean your contact lenses daily using an appropriate contact solution to prevent deposits. Proper hygiene keeps dirt and bacteria away from your eyes and helps avoid dry eyes.
• Improve Indoor Humidity: Dry air from heating or air conditioning can make things worse – using a humidifier or regularly airing out the room can increase humidity and help prevent eye dryness.
• Maintain a Healthy Diet: Omega-3 fatty acids, essential nutrients, and adequate hydration support natural tear production. Drink plenty of water and eat a balanced diet to promote long-term eye health.
• Take Regular Breaks: Give your eyes lens-free time, especially after a long day or extended screen use. Removing your contact lenses allows your eyes to naturally rehydrate. Techniques such as the 20-20-20 rule can also help relax your eyes during computer work and prevent digital eye strain.

Alternatives to Contact Lenses

If you frequently suffer from dry eyes when wearing contact lenses, several alternatives may suit you better:

• Glasses: The simplest and healthiest option. They don’t put strain on the eyes and offer protection from environmental factors like wind or dust.
• Orthokeratology (Night Lenses): These special lenses reshape the cornea overnight, so you don’t need any visual aid during the day.
• Laser Eye Surgery (e.g., Femto-LASIK, SMILE Pro or Trans-PRK): A long-term solution if you no longer want to rely on visual aids. Laser treatment can offer clear vision without glasses or lenses.
• Lens Implants: Special lenses are implanted directly into the eye. This method is particularly suitable for severe refractive errors or when laser treatment is not an option.

Depending on your specific needs and level of visual impairment, one of these options might be more suitable than conventional contact lenses.