If you love wearing contact lenses but struggle with dry, irritated eyes, you may be wondering if you have to give up your favorite lenses. Fortunately, scleral lenses and other specialized options can help people with dry eye disease wear contacts comfortably.
In this blog, we explain why it’s difficult to wear traditional soft contact lenses with dry eyes and explore solutions to improve your comfort.
Why does dry eye cause contact lens irritation?
Dry eyes occur when your eyes don’t produce enough tears or when the tears evaporate too quickly. Contacts rely on a stable tear film to stay comfortable. Without enough moisture, traditional lenses can feel scratchy, make your eyes red, or cause blurry vision.
People with dry eyes may experience:
- Burning or stinging sensations
- Redness or irritation
- Blurry or fluctuating vision
- Difficulty wearing lenses for long periods
Understanding the root cause of your dry eyes can help your eye doctor recommend the right contact lens type or treatment to enhance comfort.
What are the best contact lenses for dry eyes?
Several types of lenses and strategies can make wearing contacts possible for dry-eye sufferers:
- Scleral lenses: These larger, gas-permeable lenses vault over the cornea and hold a fluid layer against the eye. They protect the surface of the eye and provide long-lasting moisture, making them ideal for moderate to severe dry eye.
- Daily disposable lenses: Daily lenses minimize deposit buildup and reduce irritation. Changing lenses every day can improve comfort significantly.
- Specialty soft lenses: Some lenses are designed with extra moisture retention or materials suited for dry eyes.
Our skilled optometrists in Coral Gables and Palmetto Bay can help you find the best lens type based on your prescription, lifestyle, and the severity of your dry eye symptoms.
Tips for wearing contacts with dry eyes
Even with the right lenses, it’s still critical to follow these best practices for managing dry eye at home:
- Use preservative-free artificial tears before and after inserting lenses.
- To avoid infection and irritation, regularly clean contact lenses and replace contact lens cases as directed by your optometrist.
- Limit screen time or take breaks to reduce eye strain and dryness.
- Stay hydrated and manage environmental factors, such as air conditioning or fans.
Combining these strategies with the right lens type can allow you to wear contacts comfortably throughout the day.
Advanced dry eye treatments for lasting comfort
If you have moderate to severe dry eyes, specialized dry eye treatment can improve comfort and make wearing contacts much easier. One option we offer is iProX dry eye treatment, which targets the underlying causes of dry eye to restore moisture and reduce irritation.
Combining advanced therapies like iProX with the right contact lenses, such as scleral lenses, can help you enjoy clear, comfortable vision throughout the day. Our eye doctors can evaluate your eyes and recommend the best treatment plan tailored to your needs.
Protect your eyes and comfort
You don’t have to give up contact lenses if you have dry eyes. With options like scleral lenses and guidance from our eye doctors, you can enjoy clear vision without sacrificing comfort.
Schedule an appointment at Clarin Eye Care Center or Coral Gables Eye Care today and find contact lenses that work for your dry eyes.
