By As an eye doctor, I know firsthand that experiencing pain or discomfort from contact lenses is concerning.
However, there are several steps a patient can take to address that eye pain or discomfort. First off, it’s essential to remove your contact lenses immediately to give your eyes a chance to breathe. After removal, inspect the lenses for any damage or debris that could be causing irritation. If you find any tears or foreign particles, dispose of the lenses and replace them with a new pair.
If that’s not enough, you may want to consider switching to a different type of contact lens or trying out daily disposable lenses to see if they provide more comfort for your eyes. It’s also crucial to make sure you are properly cleaning and storing your lenses according to the instructions provided by your eye care professional.
If discomfort persists even after taking these steps, the next move is to schedule an appointment with your eye doctor. At the office, your eye doctor can examine your eyes and determine what underlying issues are causing the discomfort, such as dry eye or an incorrect prescription.
In many cases, your eye doctor can tell almost right away if changing your contact lens solution or using lubricating eye drops will alleviate the discomfort. Your eye doctor may also recommend taking breaks from wearing contacts and using glasses instead.
Tip: To avoid any potential irritation or discomfort, it’s also crucial to properly wash and dry your hands before handling your contact lenses. This can help prevent the transfer of bacteria and dirt onto your lenses, which can cause discomfort or even infections.
Also, make sure to replace your contact lens case regularly and never reuse old solution. Your contact lens case can harbor bacteria and fungi, which can lead to serious eye infections. By following these simple steps, you can ensure that your contact lenses stay clean and comfortable for daily wear. Additionally, always remove your contact lenses before swimming or showering to avoid exposure to harmful bacteria or chemicals in the water.
A Good Fit
Sometimes discomfort can result from lenses that are not a proper fit for your eyes or are made from materials that are unsuitable for your eye chemistry. If you recently switched to a new brand or type of lens, you might want to consult with your eye doctor to ensure your contact lenses are compatible with your eyes. Being that your eye doctor deals with these issues almost every day, they can certainly provide guidance on whether a different type of lens or solution might be more appropriate.
Dry Eye
Without question, dry eye can also contribute to contact lens discomfort. After consulting with your eye doctor, the solution may indeed be the use of rewetting drops specifically designed for contact lens users. These drops can help lubricate your eyes and reduce irritation. That said, it makes sense to follow the recommended wearing schedule and not to overextend the usage time of your lenses, at least while you might be dealing with the discomfort. Overwearing contacts can deprive your eyes of the necessary oxygen, which may be the underlying cause of the discomfort.
Live in your OcularPrime
Overall, it’s essential to listen to your body and take proper care of your contact lenses to ensure comfort and maintain healthy eyes. Don’t ignore any pain or discomfort, as it could indicate a larger issue that needs to be addressed by a professional. Always follow the recommendations of your eye care provider and don’t hesitate to reach out for help if you experience ongoing discomfort with your contact lenses. Your vision is precious, and it’s important to prioritize its health and comfort. So, make sure to always keep an eye on your contact lens wear and take necessary precautions whenever needed. With these tips in mind, you can continue enjoying clear vision without worrying about discomfort from your contact lenses.