Quick Answer
First, wash your hands, remove the lens, and rinse it with fresh solution. If discomfort persists, check for damage or debris. If your eyes feel dry or irritated, use rewetting drops. But if pain, redness, or blurry vision continues, stop wearing the lens and consult an eye care professional.
Contact lenses can sometimes feel uncomfortable, causing irritation, dryness, burning, or even pain. While occasional discomfort is common, knowing how to respond can prevent more serious issues. This guide walks you through the steps to diagnose and fix the problem, and when to switch to a different lens.
Uncomfortable contact lenses can ruin your day, but most issues have simple solutions. From checking for debris to adjusting your wearing schedule, we cover the likely causes and corrective actions. Remember, your eye health is paramount—never ignore persistent pain.
Common Causes of Contact Lens Discomfort
Contact lens irritation often stems from dry eyes, especially in air-conditioned or windy environments. When your eyes don't produce enough tears, the lens can stick to your eye, causing a gritty sensation. Also, wearing lenses for too long can reduce oxygen flow, leading to burning or a feeling of dryness.
Other culprits include damaged lenses, protein deposits, or an improper fit. If your lens has a tear or scratch, it will irritate your eye. Similarly, if the lens doesn't fit well due to an incorrect base curve, you might feel constant pressure. Always check your lens for damage before inserting.
- Wash your hands thoroughly before handling lenses.
- Use fresh solution to rinse and store your lenses.
- Follow the recommended wearing schedule for your lens type.
Immediate Steps to Relieve Discomfort
If your contact lens feels uncomfortable, start by removing it. Wash your hands, then carefully take out the lens. Rinse it with contact lens solution to remove any debris or deposits. Inspect it for tears or damage. If it looks fine, reinsert it after ensuring your eye is not red or irritated.
If you experience contact lens burning or a feeling of dryness, apply rewetting drops specifically designed for contact lenses. These drops lubricate the lens and eye, providing quick relief. Avoid using regular eye drops, as they may contain preservatives that can harm the lens.
- Always carry rewetting drops for quick relief.
- Never use saline solution alone to clean lenses; it doesn't disinfect.
- If discomfort persists, remove the lens and give your eyes a break.
When to Stop and Switch to a Different Lens
If you frequently experience contact lens discomfort, it may be time to switch to a different type of lens. For example, daily disposables like the Gemhour Dione 1-Day Soft Brown (10pk) can be more comfortable for those with dry eyes, as you get a fresh lens every day. This eliminates the buildup of deposits that can cause irritation.
Gemhour Dione 1-Day Soft Brown (10pk)
Another option is to choose lenses with a higher water content or a different material. The i-Sha Dekame Kiss Me 1-Day Cloudy Ring Grey (10pk) offers semi-opaque coverage and a prominent limbal ring, but its comfort features are similar to other daily lenses. If you have specific needs, consult your eye care professional.
i-Sha Dekame Kiss Me 1-Day Cloudy Ring Grey (10pk)
Consider your lifestyle: if you're often in dry environments, daily disposables might be better. If you wear lenses occasionally, monthly lenses like the N's Collection Lassie Grey (10pk) could be fine. But if you experience pain, redness, or vision changes, stop wearing the lens immediately and seek professional advice.
- Daily disposables reduce the risk of protein buildup.
- Check the water content and oxygen permeability of your lens.
- Always replace lenses as scheduled—never overwear them.
Diagnose and Solve Your Lens Discomfort
- Symptom: Mild irritation, grittiness, or a feeling that something is in your eye. Likely cause: debris or a small deposit on the lens.
- Corrective action: Remove, rinse, and inspect the lens. If it's clean and undamaged, reinsert. If not, replace it. If irritation returns, use a fresh lens.
- Stop point: If you experience pain, redness, blurred vision, or light sensitivity, remove the lens and do not reinsert it. Consult an eye care professional immediately. Persistent discomfort is a sign to switch to a different lens type, such as daily disposables.
Product Considerations for Comfort
- Gemhour Dione 1-Day Soft Brown (10pk): This daily lens melts a gentle, soft brown into your natural colour for a seamless, barely-there boost. Sold as a box containing 10 lenses of the same power. Daily disposables are a great choice if you experience dryness or irritation with reusable lenses, as each day starts with a fresh, clean lens.
- i-Sha Dekame Kiss Me 1-Day Cloudy Ring Grey (10pk): Offering semi-opaque coverage, these lenses blend beautifully with your natural eye color, creating a harmonious and personalized look. The prominent limbal ring adds depth and definition. If you prefer a bold look but need the comfort of daily wear, this lens provides both style and the convenience of a fresh lens every day.
Contact lens discomfort is often manageable with simple steps like rinsing and rewetting. But if you frequently face irritation, consider switching to daily disposables for a fresh start every day. Always prioritize your eye health and seek professional help if pain persists.
