Contact lenses are a popular and effective vision correction method. They are an alternative to eyeglasses and offer convenient, clear, and unobstructed vision. Unfortunately, studies suggest that most people experience eye dryness from wearing contacts, causing them to stop wearing the lenses.
 

Contact lenses sit directly on the eye surface, which can disrupt tear film stability and function. Tears help to keep the eye surface moist, allowing for clear vision. Here is expert advice about dry eye management for contact lens wearers.
 

Choosing Contact Lenses

Studies show that contact lens wear is a risk factor for developing dry eye syndrome. By disrupting the tear film, they leave the eye surface dry and vulnerable to symptoms such as itchiness and burning.
 

If you are prone to eye dryness, an eye specialist can recommend specialty contact lenses to help your condition. The lenses are available in designs and materials that allow oxygen to reach the eye surface and keep the eyes hydrated.
 

Wearing Daily Disposable Lenses

Prolonged use of contact lenses increases the risk of eye dryness. Studies show that reusable contact lenses increase the risk of developing dry eye. Switching to daily disposable lenses can reduce dry eye symptoms. Accumulation of protein and debris can worsen the symptoms.
 

Daily lens replacement can help to prevent corneal issues ranging from dryness to infections. Always follow the doctor’s instructions on proper contact lens use.
 

Choosing Contact Lens Solutions

Keeping reusable lenses clean is essential to prevent discomfort and eye issues, such as dryness. Doctors recommend using hydrogen peroxide solutions that are safe, effective, comfortable, and easy to use. They have minimal interaction with the eye surface or the lenses and provide antimicrobial effects.
 

Studies show that some multipurpose solutions can lead to corneal staining. It is vital to use lens solutions recommended by your eye doctor to reduce the risk of dry eye. Following a good maintenance or cleaning regimen will help to improve comfort.
 

Warm, Moist Compress Therapy

Using a wet compress over the eyelids each evening can relieve dry eye. Apply a warm compress after removing your lenses. The gentle heat from the compress will help to improve meibomian gland health. People with contact lens-induced dry eye can benefit from heat compress treatment. The treatment can reduce symptoms and help to increase the duration of comfortable contact lens wear.
 

Improved Digital Devise Use

Prolonged digital device use can increase eye strain and dryness for contact lens wearers. Poor screen positioning can expose the ocular surface, making it susceptible to dryness. Experts recommend making changes in digital device use, such as:
 

·      Improving viewing distance.

·      Taking frequent breaks.

·      Improving lighting.

·      Improving posture.
 

These can help to reduce screen-related eye problems.
 

Keeping the eyes well lubricated when using the computer will increase lens comfort. Contact lens wearers prone to dry eye should avoid certain eye and facial products that can worsen their symptoms. Many cosmetic products have ingredients that can increase meibomian gland toxicity and ocular irritation, thereby worsening dry eye syndrome. Switching to non-toxic products can improve contact lens comfort.
 

Scheduling regular eye exams can help to protect your eye health. Exams allow doctors to detect ocular changes that can make contact lens wear uncomfortable.
 

For more expert advice about dry eye management for contact lens wearers, visit Spectacles. Our office is in Jackson, Mississippi. Call 601.398.4662 to book an appointment today.