Which Contact Lenses are Best for Dry Eye?

Dry eye is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide, causing discomfort and, in some cases, significantly impacting vision. For contact lens wearers, managing dry eye is particularly important, as it can exacerbate the discomfort associated with lenses and even lead to the inability to wear them comfortably.
 

What is Dry Eye?

Dry eye occurs when the eyes do not produce enough tears or when the tears evaporate too quickly, leading to inflammation and irritation. Tears are essential for maintaining the health of the front surface of the eye and for providing clear vision. They lubricate the eye, reduce the risk of infection, wash away foreign particles, and keep the surface of the eyes smooth and clear.
 

The main symptoms of dry eye include:
 

•           A stinging, burning, or scratchy sensation in the eyes

•           Sensitivity to light

•           Redness

•           A sensation of having something in the eyes

•           Blurred vision

•           Eye fatigue

•           Water eyes or excessive tearing
 

For those who wear contact lenses, these symptoms can be even more pronounced, leading to discomfort and difficulty wearing lenses for extended periods.
 

How Dry Eye Affects Contact Lens Wearers

Contact lenses sit on the tear film of the eye, and a healthy tear film is necessary for comfortable lens wear. When the tear film is compromised due to dry eye, contact lenses can become uncomfortable, as they may not stay properly lubricated.
 

Some specific ways dry eye impacts contact lens wearers include:
 

•        Reduced Lens Tolerance: Dry eyes can make wearing contact lenses painful. The lenses may feel dry, gritty, or uncomfortable, leading to shorter wear times and the need to remove the lenses earlier in the day.

•        Lens Movement Issues: When the eyes are dry, contact lenses may not move smoothly over the eye's surface. This can cause the lenses to stick, shift, or move improperly, affecting vision clarity.

•        Increased Risk of Infection: A healthy tear film helps protect against eye infections. Dry eyes can lead to tiny abrasions on the eye's surface, which, combined with contact lens use, can increase the risk of infection.

•        Blurry Vision: Dry eye can cause fluctuating vision, making it difficult to see clearly while wearing contact lenses.
 

Which Contact Lenses are Best for Dry Eye?

When choosing contact lenses for dry eyes, it's important to select lenses specifically designed to retain moisture and enhance comfort. Daily disposable lenses are often recommended because they provide a fresh, clean lens surface each day, reducing the risk of dryness caused by protein buildup. Lenses made from materials like silicone hydrogel allow for higher oxygen permeability, which helps maintain eye hydration.
 

A comprehensive eye exam is crucial for developing a personalized treatment plan for dry eye and contact lens wear. During the exam, your doctor can assess the severity of your dry eye condition and identify any underlying causes, such as meibomian gland dysfunction or environmental factors. This detailed evaluation allows for the recommendation of contact lenses specifically tailored to your needs, whether that involves daily disposables, silicone hydrogel lenses, or specialty lenses designed for dry eyes. By thoroughly examining your eyes and understanding your lifestyle, the optometrist can customize a treatment plan that optimizes both your comfort and eye health, ensuring that your contact lenses provide clear vision without exacerbating dryness.
 

Ensuring Clear, Comfortable, and Healthy Vision

Dry eye can be a challenging condition, especially for contact lens wearers. However, with the right approach and management, you can continue to enjoy the convenience and benefits of wearing contact lenses without sacrificing comfort.
 

At Oshawa Eye Care, we are dedicated to helping you find the right contact lenses for your dry eye condition. Visit our office in Oshawa, Peterborough, or Bramptom, Ontario. Call (905) 723-3937, (705) 760-9402 or (647) 348-9926 to book an appointment and let us guide you towards a solution that provides comfortable and successful wear.