Best Dry Eye Contacts to Relieve Discomfort and Irritation
Imagine waking up in the morning and your eyes feeling like they’ve been coated in sand overnight. This is what dry eye syndrome feels like, and (like it or not) it happens to millions of people.
Many think the solution to dry eye is to buy glasses that prevent the ‘sun from drying out your eyes’ or to get contact lenses. Others believe that if you live on eye drops, pumping more moisture into your eyes, dry eye will be history. The truth is… that’s not the solution.
True, to wear contact lenses may aid clearer vision and eye drops may facilitate tear production. Nonetheless, these are only temporal solutions. Plus, they can also make your eye problems worse. So then, what’s the solution?
In this article, we’ll examine dry eye syndrome in detail, discuss how contact lenses affect your eyes, and discuss how to pick the best contacts to help you feel better.
Understanding Dry Eyes
‘Dry eyes’ is a common condition that occurs when the eyes do not produce enough tears or when the tears evaporate too quickly. This lack of adequate moisture can lead to discomfort, eye irritation, itchiness, burning sensation, and even damage to the eye’s surface.
What causes dry eyes?
The tear film consists of three layers: the lipid layer that prevents evaporation, a watery layer that provides moisture, and a mucus layer that helps spread the tears evenly across the eye. When any of these layers are compromised, symptoms such as a gritty sensation, burning, and excessive tearing can occur as the eyes attempt to compensate for the dryness.
Is there a solution?
Living with dry eyes can be frustrating. Simple tasks like reading, using a computer, or even watching television can become painful and so many people even find themselves constantly reaching for eye rewetting drops or taking breaks to alleviate discomfort. Indeed, contact lens can help relief dry eyes signs. However, if you are not using the recommended type of contact lens, the symptoms can turn wearing contacts inot a frustrating experience.
The Impact of Contact Lenses on Dry Eyes
When it comes to the question: Can contacts solve the problem of dry eyes? The answer is both yes and no. Many people find contact lenses a handy option instead of glasses to improve their sight without changing how they look. However, not all contact lenses are for people with dry eyes. Using the wrong lenses can make dry eye problems even worse. Here’s how:
Breaking it down
The wrong contact lens rests right on the eye messing with the natural tear layer, causing more rubbing between the lens and the eye’s surface. This then makes tears evaporate faster leading to a loop of eye irritation and discomfort.
Also, some types of contact lenses are made from materials that don’t alow oxygen permeability (that is, they don’t let enough oxygen flow in and out of your eyes). Hence they make dry eye symptoms even more severe. Also, wearing lenses too long or not cleaning them can cause more issues, like infections, and excessive protein deposits, leading to increased dryness.
Since all contact lenses are not created equal, how can you tell what current contacts help provide relief and prevent dry eyes?
Choosing the Right Contact Lenses for Dry Eyes
Selecting the appropriate contact lenses is crucial for individuals suffering from dry eyes as it directly impacts relief from dry eye symptoms. That said, here are some options that may provide relief:
Soft contact lenses for dry eyes
Soft contact lenses are a popular type of vision correction device made from flexible, hydrophilic plastics that allow oxygen to pass through to the eye. This permeability is crucial for maintaining eye health, as it helps keep the cornea hydrated and comfortable. Soft lenses are generally easier to adjust to than rigid gas permeable lenses and are favored for their comfort and convenience.
These lenses come in various materials, primarily standard hydrogel and silicone hydrogel. Nonetheless, silicone hydrogel lenses are particularly notable for their high oxygen permeability, making them suitable for extended wear and beneficial for individuals with dry eyes or those who spend long hours in front of screens.
A great example of these contact lenses is the monthly TOTAL 30™ contact lenses. The Celligent® technology produces a lens structure that resembles the cornea, forming a protective mesh layer with a tear film. This unique structure creates a naturally clean, ultra-soft, and smooth surface.
Scleral Lenses
Scleral lenses are a specialized type of contact lens designed to provide comfort and vision correction for individuals with various eye conditions. Unlike traditional contact lenses that rest directly on the cornea, scleral lenses sit on the sclera (the white part of the eye) since they are larger and vault over the cornea. This design creates a tear-filled reservoir between the lens and the cornea, which helps to keep the eye moist and can significantly alleviate symptoms of dry eye syndrome.
These contacts for dry eyes are custom-made for each patient, ensuring a precise fit that accommodates the unique shape and needs of the eye.
Scleral lenses are particularly beneficial for individuals with irregular corneas, such as those suffering from keratoconus, severe dry eyes, or complications from eye surgeries. They can also comfo for patients with sensitive eyes that cannot tolerate smaller, conventional lenses.
Of the amazing scleral contact lenses under this category, one is the Biofinity Toric. They are monthly contact lenses, specially designed for people with astigmatism. Known for their stability and comfort, they do not move around on the eye like traditional lenses, hence, reducing the risk of irritation and discomfort.
Contact lenses with high water content
Contact lenses with high water content typically contain more than 50% water, which can enhance comfort and oxygen permeability. These lenses are designed to keep the eyes hydrated and are often easier to handle during insertion and removal. However, contrary to common belief, high water content lenses can actually draw moisture away from the eyes, making them less suitable for individuals with dry eye syndrome. That’s why it is also important to know which type to pick. A greater recommendation is the Bausch+Lomb Ultra One Day disposable lenses.
They use the innovative MoistureSeal and ComfortFeel technologies, which work harmoniously with the tear film, providing optimal hydration and comfort throughout the day. Unlike other moisturizing lenses, the MoistureSeal technology in the Bausch+Lomb Ultra One Day disposable lenses maintains up to 96% of moisture in the lens, guaranteeing long-lasting hydration even in difficult conditions.
In turn, ComfortFeel technology makes the lenses extremely soft and adapts to the individual needs of the user, offering exceptional comfort of wear.
Contact Lens with Specific Features
Even when choosing from the various types of contact lenses mentioned above, consider looking for specific features that align with your lifestyle and enhance your overall comfort and convenience. Here are some options:
Blue-light protection
These lenses are specially designed eyewear that filters out a portion of blue light emitted from digital screens and artificial lighting. Blue light is part of the visible light spectrum and is known for its short wavelength and high energy. While exposure to blue light during the day can be beneficial for alertness and mood, excessive exposure—especially from screens—can lead to digital eye strain, discomfort, and potential disruption of sleep patterns.
For those who wish to try out this lens type, try the Biofinity Energys monthly contact lenses that have been designed to aid comfortable vision and eye protection. Made of a silicone-hydrogel material that is very soft and flexible, the lenses also offer protection against harmful blue light emitted by computer screens, TVs or smartphones.
Daily Disposable lenses
The daiy disposable contact lenses are designed for single-use, reducing the risk of protein buildup and irritation. They are often made from silicone hydrogels, which can help retain moisture better than traditional lenses. A great recommendation is the Acuvue Oasys 1-Day HydraLuxe.
This daily disposable contact lenses incorporates the innovative HydraLuxe™ integrated tear technology, offering moisturizing properties that work with the natural tear film to achieve the highest level of comfort. It’s also the best option for people who spend a lot of time in front of a computer screen. The Acuvue Oasys also comes in the 90-pack for those whoo prefer the two-weeks option.
Finally, consulting with an eye doctor is essential to determine the best lens type based on individual needs and lifestyle.
Tips for Wearing Contact Lenses with Dry Eyes
For those who choose to wear contacts despite dry eyes, there are several strategies to minimize discomfort:
- Follow Proper Hygiene: Always wash hands before handling lenses, and ensure that the storage case is clean and replaced regularly. Also, if you use daily disposable contact lenses, ensure to use only fresh lens daily.
- Limit Screen Time: Use the 20-20-20 rule—every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds to reduce eye strain.
- Use Artificial Tears: Over-the-counter lubricating eye drops can provide temporary relief. Opt for preservative-free options if using them frequently.
- Take Breaks: Remove lenses periodically throughout the day to allow the eyes to rest and recover.
- Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water can help maintain overall eye moisture, thereby reducing dry eyes.
- Consider Environmental Factors: Use a humidifier at home, avoid direct airflow from fans or air conditioning, and wear sunglasses outdoors to protect against wind and irritants.
- Consult Your Eye Doctor: Regular check-ups with an eye doctor can help monitor eyes health and adjust lens types or treatment plans as needed.
Living with dry eyes can be challenging, but with the right contact lenses and care strategies, wearing contacts can be the relief you need, topped with the benefits of vision correction without sacrificing comfort.
Additional Remedies for Dry Eye Relief
Besides using the contact lens solution as an option, contact lens wearers can also adopt a variety of help tips along the way:
- Use a humidifier to add moisture to the air and help alleviate dry eye symptoms.
- Avoid rubbing your eyes, as this can irritate the eyes and make dry eye symptoms worse.
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water to help keep your eyes moist.
- Consider using a warm compress to help loosen up any blockages in the tear ducts.
Consulting an Eye Care Professional
If you experience persistent or severe dry eye symptoms, consult an eye care professional for proper diagnosis and treatment. An eye care professional can help you determine the best course of treatment for your dry eyes and recommend the best contact lenses for your needs.
Regular eye exams can help identify any underlying conditions that may be contributing to your dry eye symptoms.
Conclusion
Dry eyes can be a frustrating and uncomfortable condition, but there are many options available to help alleviate symptoms. By choosing the right contact lenses and following proper care and hygiene tips, you can help keep your eyes healthy and comfortable.
Don’t hesitate to consult an eye care professional if you experience persistent or severe dry eye symptoms.
