Contact lenses are supposed to provide comfortable and clear vision, so it can be frustrating when they cause discomfort. If your lenses are uncomfortable, it’s important to understand the possible causes and find solutions that work. At Buckeye Optometry, we offer a range of specialty contact lenses in Marion, Ohio, including rigid gas permeable (RGP), scleral, and toric lenses, which can address specific issues and improve your comfort.
Here are some of the most common reasons for contact lens discomfort and how we can help.
Why are my contacts uncomfortable?
1. Dry eyes
Dry eyes are a frequent cause of contact lens discomfort. If your eyes don’t produce enough moisture or your tears evaporate too quickly, your lenses may feel scratchy or cause irritation. This is often exacerbated by dry environments, such as those with air conditioning or heating.
2. Poor fit
Contact lenses need to fit your eyes precisely. If they are too loose or too tight, they can shift or press against your eyes in ways that cause discomfort. Specialty lenses, such as RGP or scleral lenses, may be more suitable if you have irregular corneas or if standard lenses do not fit properly.
3. Wrong lens type
Not all lenses are suitable for every eye condition. For example, if you have astigmatism, regular soft lenses won’t function as well, leading to discomfort and blurry vision. Toric lenses for astigmatism can offer a more secure and comfortable fit. They are specially designed to correct the irregular curvature of an eye with astigmatism, providing enhanced vision and comfort.
4. Dirty lenses
Dust, protein deposits, or other buildup on your lenses can lead to discomfort. If you don’t clean your lenses properly or wear them longer than recommended, protein deposits or debris can cause irritation.
5. Allergies
Allergens like pollen, dust, or pet dander can cling to your lenses and cause itching or redness. If you have allergies, daily disposable lenses might be more comfortable for you.
6. Overwearing your lenses
Wearing your lenses for longer than recommended limits oxygen flow to your eyes, resulting in discomfort. RGP and scleral lenses allow more oxygen to reach the eye, which can help if you need to wear contacts for extended periods.
Solutions for contact lens discomfort
If your lenses are causing discomfort, you can try these tips to make them more comfortable.
- Try specialty lenses: At Buckeye Optometry, we offer RGP, scleral, and toric lenses that can improve both comfort and vision. For example, scleral lenses rest on the white part of your eye (the sclera) rather than the cornea, which can provide extra comfort, especially if you have dry eyes or irregular corneas.
- Use rewetting drops: If your eyes tend to feel dry with contacts, lubricating or rewetting drops can help. Be sure to choose eye drops that are safe for contact lens use to avoid further irritation.
- Follow proper lens care: Keeping your lenses clean is key to avoiding discomfort. It’s important to follow the recommended cleaning routine, use the right contact lens solution, and replace your lenses as advised. Never rinse your lenses with tap water—it can introduce bacteria that cause irritation.
- Get a contact lens fitting: Sometimes discomfort comes from lenses that don’t fit well. A contact lens exam in Marion at Buckeye Optometry ensures you have lenses that fit perfectly and comfortably. If needed, we can adjust your prescription or suggest a better-fitting lens type.
- Treat underlying conditions: If dry eyes, allergies, or another eye condition is causing discomfort, treating these issues can help improve how your lenses feel. We’ll help you find the right treatment to keep your eyes healthy and comfortable.
With the right treatment and care, you can see comfortably and clearly with contact lenses! Call us today to schedule an appointment and find a solution to your discomfort.