Managing Dry Eye While Wearing Contacts

Dry eye is a condition caused by tear film issues over the surface of the eyes. In many cases, dry eye is caused by meibomian gland dysfunction. This is where the meibomian glands don’t work properly, which are responsible for creating the oil that gives tear film its lubrication. This often happens when there is blockage caused by hardened oil deposits. In other instances, dry eye can be caused by the eyes not making enough tear film or it draining too quickly.

Dry eye can make it more difficult to wear contact lenses comfortably. This is because contact lenses float on the tear film, which enables them to move around with your eyes to see clearly. If you suffer from dry eye and want to wear contact lenses, you will need to learn to manage it to enjoy the benefits of your chosen eyewear.

Here are our top tips for managing dry eye while wearing contact lenses.
 


Use Artificial Tear Eye Drops



One of the most effective ways of managing dry eye, whether you are wearing contact lenses or not, is to use artificial tear eye drops. As their name suggests, they work by replicating natural tear film, moistening the eyes, and making them more comfortable. While they can be administered at any time, many people who wear contact lenses find that it is very helpful to moisten their eyes before they put in or remove their contact lenses. You may also need to use them more often if you are in dry, dusty, or smoky environments.

There are different types of artificial eye drops available, but it’s important to pick those that are preservative-free since preservatives can damage contact lenses.
 


Make Sure you Clean your Contact Lenses Properly



If you wear longer-wear contact lenses, you should be cleaning them properly every night before you wear them again the next day. This should always be done using proper contact lens solution, not just water. Unfortunately, when people get busy their contact lens cleaning routine tends to weaken. If this happens, you aren’t only at risk of making your dry eye worse, but you could also put yourself at risk of infections and damage your contact lenses.
 


Consider Switching to Specialty Contact Lenses



There are types of contact lenses suitable for people with dry eye referred to as specialty contact lenses. One most effective type for dry eyes is scleral lenses. Scleral contact lenses have a different design from regular contacts and don’t make contact with the entire surface of the cornea. Instead, it is shaped to vault over the center, creating a gap between the front of the eye and the back of the lens that acts as a reservoir for the tear film. This keeps the eyes comfortable and counteracts some of the effects of dry eye.

Ask your contact lens provider if you could be a good candidate for scleral contact lenses.

For more information about managing dry eye while wearing contact lenses, visit Electric City Eye Care in Anderson, SC. Call (864) 224-2088 to schedule an appointment today.

admin none 9:00 AM - 5:30 PM 9:00 AM - 5:30 PM 9:00 AM - 5:30 PM 9:00 AM - 5:30 PM 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM Closed Closed optometrist # # #