If your contact lenses from an optometrist cause persistent dryness, it’s important to take proactive steps rather than simply adjusting on your own. Dryness is a common complaint, but it can signal an issue with the lens fit, material, or your overall eye health. Your optometrist is the best person to diagnose the cause and recommend a solution tailored to you.
First: Do Not Continue with Uncomfortable Lenses
Pushing through dryness can lead to irritation, corneal scratches, or infection. Remove your lenses immediately if discomfort persists, and switch to your backup glasses. This gives your eyes a break and prevents further aggravation.
Common Causes of Dryness to Discuss with Your Optometrist
During your next appointment, your optometrist will evaluate several factors. The cause may be straightforward or require a deeper look. Key possibilities include:
- Poor fit: A lens that is too tight or too loose can disrupt tear flow. Your optometrist can measure your corneal curvature and recommend a better size or base curve.
- Lens material: Some materials absorb tears or dehydrate faster. Your optometrist might suggest a silicone hydrogel or daily disposable lens that retains moisture better.
- Prescription changes: Adjustments to your power or astigmatism correction can improve comfort.
- Dry eye disease: Even mild dry eye can worsen with contact lenses. Your optometrist can test tear production and quality, and recommend treatments like artificial tears, punctal plugs, or prescription drops.
Steps to Take Before Your Exam
To get the best advice, come prepared. Your optometrist will appreciate this context:
- Track when dryness occurs - after a few hours, at the end of the day, or only in certain environments (like air conditioning or wind).
- Write down how long you wear lenses and your cleaning routine. Overuse or improper cleaning can contribute to dryness.
- List any other symptoms: redness, blurring, irritation, or the sensation of a foreign object.
- Bring your current lens packaging and solution to your visit.
What Your Optometrist Can Do
Your optometrist has several tools and options to address persistent dryness. These may include:
- Performing a slit-lamp exam to assess lens fit and eye surface health.
- Switching you to a different lens type, such as a daily disposable that is replaced more frequently.
- Recommending rewetting drops specifically safe for contact lenses.
- Evaluating you for dry eye disease and prescribing therapies like warm compresses, lid hygiene, or in-office treatments.
- Adjusting your wear schedule, such as reducing wearing time or taking lens-free breaks during the day.
When to See an Optometrist vs. Urgent Care
If you experience severe pain, sensitivity to light, excessive tearing, or vision changes, do not wait for a routine appointment. These could indicate a corneal infection or injury, which requires immediate care. Contact your optometrist’s office or visit urgent care if they are unavailable. For persistent but mild-to-moderate dryness, schedule an exam within a few weeks.
Long-Term Management for Comfort
Dryness can often be managed successfully with the right lens choice and habit changes. Regular comprehensive eye exams are essential, as they allow your optometrist to monitor your eyes and adjust your prescription or lens type as needed. Remember, persistent dryness is not something you should tolerate - your optometrist can help you find a solution that supports both comfort and eye health.