Dry eyes, whether from short-term environmental causes or from chronic conditions, complicate use of contact lenses, but selection and care of the right type of lens may help diminish the itching, redness and irritation associated with dry eyes.
Types
Contact lenses are available in soft or rigid (gas permeable) forms, which are made from different types of plastics. Soft lenses contain water and encourage evaporation of fluids from the eye, so gas permeable lenses that allow the eye to obtain oxygen and retain moisture are preferred for dry eyes.
Time Frame
Both soft and rigid lenses can be replaced annually, monthly, weekly or daily with disposable types. Protein deposits and other buildup occurs gradually with contact lens use, so disposable versions, especially those replaced daily, are best for people with dry eyes.
Considerations
Mild dry eye symptoms of irritation, dryness and itching may never occur until a person tries to wear contact lenses. In this case, the lenses can be worn until irritation begins and then can be removed for an hour and soaked in lens solution to remoisturize the lenses and rest the eyes.
Techniques
Some causes of dry eyes are related to the environment, and symptoms can be reduced while wearing contact lenses. For example, humidifiers can return moisture to the air in a heated home, or wraparound sunglasses can be used to prevent wind and dust irritation of the lenses and eyes.
Prevention/Solution
Careful cleaning of the lenses with cleaning and soaking solutions, and eye care with lubricating drops and rest from computer and TV screens, will help to reduce dry eye irritation, whether soft or rigid lenses are worn.
