Dry eyes can be a frustrating and uncomfortable condition, especially for those who wear contact lenses regularly. The feeling of dry, itchy, and irritated eyes can be unbearable at times, making it difficult to focus on daily tasks and activities. Dry eyes with contacts can be caused by various factors, such as environmental conditions, hormonal changes, certain medications, or even the type of contact lenses you are using. In some cases, dry eyes can also be a symptom of an underlying medical issue, such as blepharitis, meibomian gland dysfunction, or Sjögren's syndrome.

Despite the challenges of managing dry eyes with contact lenses, it is possible to find relief and improve your overall eye comfort with the help of effective strategies and products. This article will provide helpful tips and guidance on how to fix dry eyes with contacts, as well as recommendations for the best contact lenses for dry eyes and accompanying eye drops and lubricants.

By understanding the causes of dry eyes and contacts, and implementing the right strategies and products, you can continue to enjoy the convenience and benefits of contact lenses without the discomfort of dry eyes.

How to Fix Dry Eyes with Contacts: Tips and Strategies

Daily Habits and Environment

One of the first steps in addressing dry eyes with contacts is to evaluate your daily habits and environment. This can help you identify potential triggers and make necessary adjustments to minimize their impact on your eyes. For example, if you spend long hours in front of a computer screen or digital device, take regular breaks using the 20-20-20 rule (every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds) to help reduce eye strain and dryness. Additionally, consider using a humidifier in your home or office to maintain adequate moisture levels in the air, as dry air can exacerbate dry eyes.

Proper Contact Lens Care and Hygiene

Maintaining proper contact lens care and hygiene is essential to prevent dry eyes and contacts-related issues. Always wash your hands thoroughly before handling your contact lenses and follow the recommended cleaning and storage guidelines provided by your eye care professional. Using a high-quality contact lens solution can help keep your lenses clean and hydrated, reducing the risk of dryness and irritation. Furthermore, consider replacing your contact lenses as recommended, since worn-out lenses can contribute to dry eyes.

Contact Lens Material and Design

The type of contact lens material and design can also play a significant role in combating dry eyes with contacts. Certain materials, such as silicone hydrogel, are designed to allow more oxygen to reach the eye, which can help maintain a healthy tear film and reduce dryness. Additionally, some contact lenses feature a design that helps retain moisture, such as lenses with a higher water content or those that incorporate moisture-retaining agents. Talk to your eye care professional about the best contact lens options for your specific needs.

Daily Disposable Contact Lenses

Daily disposable contact lenses can be an excellent option for individuals with dry eyes, as they provide a fresh, clean lens every day. This can help reduce the risk of irritation and dryness associated with the buildup of protein, lipids, and other debris on the lens surface. Some popular daily disposable contact lenses for dry eyes include the 1-Day Acuvue Moist, Dailies Total1, and Biotrue ONEday lenses.

Silicone Hydrogel Contact Lenses

As mentioned earlier, silicone hydrogel contact lenses are designed to allow more oxygen to reach the eye, which can help maintain a healthy tear film and reduce dryness. This material is available in various lens types, including daily disposables, monthly disposables, and extended wear lenses. Some popular silicone hydrogel contact lenses for dry eyes include the Acuvue Oasys, Air Optix Aqua, and Biofinity lenses.

Moisture-Retaining Contact Lenses

Contact lenses that incorporate moisture-retaining agents or feature a design that helps retain moisture can also be beneficial for those with dry eyes. Examples of these types of contact lenses include the Alcon Dailies AquaComfort Plus, which releases a moisturizing agent on every blink, and the CooperVision Proclear lenses, which utilize a unique technology called PC Technology to attract and maintain moisture on the lens surface.

Eye Drops and Lubricants for Dry Eyes and Contacts

In addition to selecting the right contact lenses for dry eyes, using eye drops and lubricants specifically designed for use with contact lenses can provide additional relief and comfort. These products can help maintain a healthy tear film, reduce friction between the lens and the eye, and alleviate dryness and irritation. Some popular eye drops and lubricants for dry eyes and contacts include Blink Contacts Lubricating Eye Drops, Systane Ultra Lubricant Eye Drops, and Refresh Optive Mega-3 Lubricant Eye Drops.

Always consult your eye care professional before using any eye drops or lubricants, as they can recommend the most suitable products based on your specific needs and contact lens type.

Conclusion

Living with dry eyes and contacts can be challenging, but with the right strategies and products, it is possible to manage this condition effectively and enjoy the benefits of contact lens wear. By implementing daily habits that promote eye health, maintaining proper contact lens care and hygiene, and selecting contact lenses and accompanying eye drops and lubricants specifically designed for dry eyes, you can alleviate discomfort and improve your overall eye comfort.

Remember to consult your eye care professional for personalized advice and recommendations, as they can provide valuable guidance based on your specific needs and circumstances. With the right approach, managing dry eyes with contacts can become a more manageable and comfortable experience.

For more on managing dry eyes with contact lenses, visit Nappanee Family Eyecare at our office in Nappanee, Indiana. Call (574) 319-9390 to book an appointment today.