Can You Still Wear Contacts With Dry Eyes?

Dry eye is a condition caused by the failure of tears to keep the eyes lubricated. Inadequate or poor-quality tears leave the eyes dry, and the patient experiences grittiness, redness, blurry vision, and other symptoms. 

Contact lenses help correct vision, and patients wear them directly on the eye. If you have dry eyes, wearing contacts can be uncomfortable due to the lack of moisture. There is an increased risk of the lenses scratching the cornea. It is helpful to find out if you can still wear contacts with dry eyes.  

Contact Lenses With Dry Eyes

If you have dry eyes, the good news is that you do not have to give up contact lenses. Treating the condition or switching to new lenses can help. The eye doctor will help identify the underlying cause of the dry eye condition. 

If your eyes do not produce enough tears, lubricating eye drops can help. If you are taking medication that is causing dry eyes, switching to a new drug can help. The doctor may recommend other options for a severe dry eye, like plugging the tear drain system. It will keep more moisture in the eyes.

Changing Your Contact Lenses

There are different contact lenses available for various eye conditions. Switching to new lenses can help ensure comfort. The options include soft contacts, which people wear and dispose of daily. 

They are made of a compound containing water to help alleviate dry eye symptoms. Silicone-based hydrogel lenses can reduce the rate of fluid evaporation. Rigid gas-permeable lenses are harder than regular contacts, allowing oxygen to get to the cornea, enhancing comfort. 

Using Scleral Contact Lenses 

The rigid gas-permeable lenses help with dry eye symptoms. The specialty lenses have a wide diameter and arch over the cornea and rest on the eye's sclera. They create a space where fluid can help hydrate the cornea. 

Studies have shown that scleral lenses reduce symptoms in most dry eye patients. The results and level of comfort vary among individuals. If you suffer from dry eyes, you can talk to your eye doctor about scleral lenses. 

Changing Contact Lens Solutions 

While changing your contact lenses may be the best option, it can also help change your contact lens solution. Some people find relief when they change solutions as some products contain preservatives that cause eye irritation and dryness. The solution can react with the lens chemicals, causing dry eye symptoms. Your doctor can recommend a preservative-free solution brand that can help provide relief. 

Preventing Dry Eye Symptoms 

Preventing dry eye symptoms includes cleaning the contact lenses thoroughly daily and changing them as recommended. You should avoid wearing the contacts longer than the prescribed time. Use rewetting drops before wearing the lenses to keep the eye moisturized. Use lubricating drops regularly all day. If you have sensitive eyes, avoid using eye drops with preservatives. 

Having dry eyes does not mean you must stop wearing contacts. An eye exam will help identify the cause of your dry eyes. Your doctor can recommend contact lens brands that will work for you. The lens material, size, and water contact can make a difference. 

For more on wearing contacts with dry eye, visit Ocean Park Optometry at our office in ​​​​​​Santa Monica, California. Call (310) 452-1039 today to schedule an appointment.