For contact lens wearers, dry eyes can make it difficult to enjoy their contacts. The condition often is uncomfortable and frustrating. It's possible that your contact lens solution is to blame for your dry eye problems. However, since there are many causes of dry eyes, consult your eye doctor before changing solutions or your lens care regimen.
Identification
When the surface of your eye does not get enough lubrication or moisture, that is called dry eye syndrome. Symptoms include irritation, inflammation, red eyes, itchy discomfort and the constant need to rub or close eyes. Medical terms for dry eyes are keratitis sicca, a decrease or poor quality of tearing, and keratoconjunctivitis sicca, meaning the dry eye is associated with the cornea and conjunctiva, parts of the eye.
Expert Insight
Your contact lenses or the combination of the lenses and your cleaning solution may be the cause of your dry eyes. Follow your eye doctor's directions on cleansing and how often you should change your contacts. Also, ask how many hours a day you can wear your lenses. According to Gary Heiting, an optometrist and writer for the All About Vision website, research shows that long-term wear can cause dry eyes. Lifestyle choices, such as smoking, also can cause dry eyes for contact lens wearers.
Prevention/Solution
The cleansing solution you use must be compatible with your lenses. Check the contact lens packing for the solution that works best for your lenses. Switching brands can exacerbate dry eye symptoms. A store brand solution may not be a suitable substitute for the recommended product.
Considerations
If your dry eye symptoms are mild, you may try contact lens rewetting drops. The drops can provide temporary relief. Your optometrist may prescribe lubricating eye drops for longer-lasting relief. These often are called artificial tears. For severe cases, your doctor may prescribe restasis eye drops which help your body produce more tears.
Warning
Many eye drops are not compatible with contacts and are meant to be used only when you are not wearing your contacts. Some cleaning solutions and rewetting drops are not compatible with each other or certain contact lenses. Using incompatible products can ruin your contact lenses and harm your eyes.
