According to Ed Ellis, Ph.D., an authority in the areas of biocompatible polymers and plastics, as noted on EyeCareSource.com, contact lens use is a major contributing factor to a condition known as chronic dry eyes. Contact lenses absorb tears---the eyes' natural source of lubrication---and dry the tear film that protects the eye from the outside world and lubricates it for easy movement within the socket.
Symptoms
The discomfort experienced by patients with dry eyes include light pain and a grainy or scratchy feeling. Itchiness and reddening may also be present. Ellis notes that some patients experience excess tearing as the eyes try to compensate for dry conditions.
Treatment
Gary Heiting, D.O., associate editor of AllAboutVision.com, says over-the-counter rewetting drops for dry eyes from contact lens use are specially formulated to be instilled while wearing contacts. If contacts are painful to wear, consult your optometrist to discuss your symptoms, including when your eyes feel driest and what you have tried to alleviate the discomfort. Heiting says some patients avoid discussing lens discomfort with their eye-care practitioner out of fear that they will no longer be able to wear contacts.
Prevention/Solution
New gel-based lenses have been designed to treat dryness associated with contact lens use. Phosphorylcholine in the lens attracts and retains more water than traditional contact lenses, to help eliminate the dry eyes associated with contact lens use.
