Dry eyes are a common and uncomfortable condition affecting millions of people worldwide. With its prevalence and the fact that contact lens use is also common, you might be wondering: Can I wear contact lenses with dry eyes?

Understanding Dry Eyes

Dry eye syndrome occurs when your eyes don't make enough tears or the tears evaporate too fast, leading to eye discomfort. It can occur due to various factors, such as damage to the tear glands or skin around the eyes. Extended contact lens usage is another potential cause. In fact, approximately half of contact lens wearers develop contact lens-related dry eye. 

Does that mean people with dry eyes must not wear contact lenses? Fortunately, that’s not the case. 

Contact Lens Options for Dry Eyes

If you have dry eyes, it doesn't mean you have to give up wearing contact lenses altogether. Understanding your options and seeking professional guidance can help you find a solution. Here are some considerations:

Lens Materials

Soft contact lenses made of hydrogel allow oxygen to pass through, minimizing dryness. Disposable soft lenses can be worn for a day and discarded, reducing the risk of protein deposits that can worsen dryness. Silicone-based hydrogel lenses can also help reduce dry eye symptoms as they retain moisture better. 

Lens Water Content

Soft contact lenses come with varying water content levels. High-water content lenses initially provide more moisture, but they may dry out faster. Experimenting with lenses of different water contents may help identify the optimal choice for your comfort. However, please don’t do this on your own. Consult your doctor to avoid unnecessary trial and error. 

Lens Size

Regular lenses typically measure about 9 millimeters in diameter and cover the colored part of the eye. Scleral contact lenses, measuring 15 to 22 millimeters and covering part of the white area of the eye, offer better moisture retention. This can result in improved symptoms for some people.

Caring for Your Contacts

Apart from choosing the appropriate contact lens for your dry eyes, proper care is essential. Clean and change your lenses as recommended, following your eye doctor's instructions. Rewetting drops can help lubricate your eyes before and during lens wear. Using preservative-free eye drops may be beneficial for those with sensitivity. In extremely dry environments, such as heated rooms during winter, more frequent use of drops may be necessary.

Caring for Your Eyes

On top of appropriate contact lens use and care, you can do many things to care for your dry eyes. For instance, using humidifiers may help add moisture to the air. Taking a break while working may also do wonders, as well as wearing protective eyewear to block wind and dry air. If you smoke, it’s worth considering quitting now. 

If you would like to wear contact lenses, consult with our doctor at Cincinnati Vision Group in our Cincinnati, Liberty Township, West Chester, or Dayton, Ohio, offices. You may also call (513) 793-5970, (513) 712-5065, (513) 753-4981, (937) 579-0393, or (937) 435-4293 to schedule an appointment today.