How to Deal with Contact Lens Discomfort

Do your eyes itch or burn when wearing contact lenses? If you are a contact lens wearer in Henderson experiencing discomfort, you are not alone. There are several reasons why contacts may feel uncomfortable, and most of them can be addressed with the right approach. Understanding the possible causes can help you find relief and get back to comfortable lens wear.

What Causes Contact Lenses to Feel Uncomfortable?

Some of the most common causes of contact lens discomfort include:

Dry Eyes

Dry eye is a common condition that develops when your tears cannot keep your eyes sufficiently lubricated due to an imbalance in the tear film. Certain medications, health conditions, and environmental factors such as dry air, wind, and air conditioning can cause or worsen dry, itchy, or irritated eyes. Contact lens wearers are especially susceptible because lenses can reduce the amount of oxygen reaching the cornea and may increase tear evaporation.

Allergies

Allergens are substances that trigger an immune response in certain people. Pollen, mold, dust, and pet dander are some of the most common airborne allergens that affect the eyes. Cosmetics and certain eye drops containing preservatives can also contribute to eye allergies. When allergens build up on contact lens surfaces, they can make lens wear increasingly uncomfortable over time.

Corneal Irregularities

The cornea at the front of the eye may be irregularly shaped due to astigmatism, keratoconus, previous eye surgeries such as LASIK or cataract surgery, injuries, scarring, corneal ulcers, or severe dry eye. Irregular corneas often prevent standard soft contact lenses from fitting correctly, leading to discomfort, lens movement, and inconsistent vision.

Symptoms That Suggest Your Contacts Are Not Right

Burning, itchy, or stinging eyes
A sensation of something being stuck in the eye
Excessive watering or tearing
Unusual eye discharge
Redness of the eyes
Reduced sharpness of vision
Blurred vision, rainbows, or halos around objects
Sensitivity to light

If you experience sudden, severe eye pain, significant vision loss, or heavy discharge, remove your lenses immediately and seek prompt eye care. These symptoms may indicate an infection or other urgent condition.

How Can You Relieve Contact Lens Discomfort?

Ask About Different Contact Lens Options

Today there are many types of contact lenses available, including options specifically designed for dry eyes, astigmatism, and sensitive eyes. If your existing lenses fit well but still cause irritation or dryness, a different lens material, design, or replacement schedule may make a significant difference. Daily disposable lenses, for example, reduce the chance of deposit buildup that can contribute to discomfort. Our team can evaluate your current lenses and recommend alternatives during a contact lens exam.

Using Artificial Tears and Rewetting Drops

Over-the-counter preservative-free artificial tears or rewetting drops are a common way to temporarily relieve contact lens discomfort throughout the day. However, keep in mind that not all eye drops are safe to use with contacts. Some formulas contain preservatives or ingredients that can damage lenses or irritate the eyes. Avoid products marketed solely for redness removal, as these work by temporarily shrinking blood vessels and do not address the underlying cause of discomfort. They may actually make the problem worse over time. Ask your eye doctor which drops are appropriate for your specific lens type.

How Should You Care for Your Lenses?

Inadequate contact lens care can leave residue on your lenses, leading to discomfort, infections, and inflammation. Following a consistent hygiene routine is one of the most effective ways to prevent problems:

Thoroughly wash and dry your hands before handling your contact lenses.
Remove your lenses before showering, bathing, or swimming to prevent exposure to waterborne microorganisms.
Do not sleep in your contact lenses unless they are specifically approved for overnight wear.
Replace your lenses according to the prescribed schedule. Do not extend the life of daily, biweekly, or monthly lenses beyond their intended use.
Clean your contact lens case regularly and replace it every one to three months.
Use only the contact lens solution recommended by your eye doctor.
Never reuse or top off contact lens solution in the case.
Keep up with regular eye exams to monitor your eye health and lens fit.

Why Do Follow-Up Visits Matter After a Contact Lens Fitting?

If you have recently been fitted for contact lenses and your eye doctor asks you to return within a week or two, it is to make sure the lenses are fitting properly and to catch any early signs of irritation or dryness. If it has been about a year since your last exam, your doctor will want to check whether your prescription has changed, evaluate the health of your eyes, and confirm that your current lenses are still the best option.

If you are experiencing discomfort with your contact lenses, schedule an appointment at Insight Vision Optometry, Las Vegas. Our team in Henderson will work with you to identify the cause and find a solution for comfortable, all-day wear. Call 702-747-4070 or visit www.insightvisionlv.com to book your contact lens evaluation today.