Red Eye and Dry Eye Solutions for Contact Lens Wearers

Author: Kim Raharja, OD Living with dry eyes can be a daily challenge. The discomfort, irritation, and blurred vision often make wearing contact lenses seem impossible. However, advances in lens technology and eye care have opened new doors for those struggling with dry eyes. I want to share practical solutions and insights about how lenses for dry eyes can improve comfort and vision. Whether you have mild dryness or chronic issues, there are options designed to help you see clearly without sacrificing comfort.

Understanding Lenses for Dry Eyes

Dry eye occurs when your eyes do not produce enough tears or when the tears evaporate too quickly. This condition can cause redness, burning, and a gritty feeling. For many, wearing contact lenses worsens these symptoms. But not all lenses are created equal. Some are specifically designed to address dryness and provide relief.

Lenses for dry eyes focus on maintaining moisture and reducing irritation. They use materials that retain water better and allow oxygen to pass through, keeping your eyes healthy. Additionally, some lenses have special coatings that resist deposits and reduce friction between the lens and your eyelid. If your eyes don't feel dry when wearing glasses but do feel dry with contact lenses, the lenses might be the cause, as they absorb your tears to remain moist.

If you experience discomfort with your current lenses, it might be time to explore these specialized options. You can also combine lens use with other dry eye treatments like artificial tears or prescription eye drops for better results. If you treat your dry eyes, your eyes can feel better in more types of contact lenses.

Eye drops can help with mild dryness and red eyes, but it’s best to steer clear of redness-relief varieties.

How Contact Lenses Can Help Manage Dry Eye Symptoms

Many people assume that contact lenses worsen dry eye symptoms, but the right lenses can actually help manage them. Here’s how:

• Hydration retention: Some lenses are made from hydrogel or silicone hydrogel materials that hold water well evaporating at a less rate. This helps keep your eyes moist throughout the day.

• Oxygen permeability: Healthy eyes need oxygen. Lenses that allow more oxygen to reach your cornea reduce dryness and irritation.

• Surface coatings: Special coatings can reduce protein buildup and friction, which often cause discomfort.

• Lens replacement schedules: Daily disposable lenses reduce the risk of allergens and deposits that can worsen dry eye symptoms. Leftover proteins stuck on contacts can heighten sensitivity reactions to reusable contact lenses.

  
  

Using lenses designed for dry eyes can reduce the need for frequent artificial tear use and improve overall comfort. It is important to follow your eye care professional’s advice on lens care and replacement to avoid complications.

Before selecting lenses, it is essential to have a thorough eye exam and consultation. Your eye care provider can recommend the best lens type based on your eye health, tear quality, and daily activities.

Ask your doctor for eyedrops compatible with contact lenses

Tips for Wearing Contact Lenses with Red and Dry Eyes

Wearing contact lenses when you have dry eyes requires some extra care. Here are practical tips to help you stay comfortable:

• Use lubricating eye drops: Choose preservative-free drops recommended by your eye doctor. Apply them before and after inserting lenses.

• Follow a strict hygiene routine: Clean and store your lenses properly to avoid infections and buildup.

• Limit screen time: Take frequent breaks to alleviate eye strain and counteract reduced blinking, which can exacerbate dryness. Essentially, eye exercises serve as a reminder to blink and decrease the duration your eyes remain open.

• Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water to support tear production.

• Avoid environments that are smoky or dry: If needed, use a humidifier to keep the air moist. Placing a warm, damp towel over your eyes for 10 minutes can greatly improve your day.

• Wear sunglasses and moisture chamber glasses: Safeguard your eyes from wind and sun exposure, which can exacerbate dryness. We offer specialized moisture chamber glasses that are excellent for protecting you from dryness while using a computer, devices, driving, biking, or engaging in outdoor activities.

• Follow replacement schedules: Do not extend the use of lenses beyond the recommended time.

• Avoid using fans and circulating air while you sleep: These can cause your eyes to dry out during the night, resulting in blurry vision or extreme dryness when you wake up. If you must use a fan, consult your doctor for advice on managing this drying environment. CPAP machines are also known for causing blurry and dry eyes in the morning.

  
  

If you experience persistent discomfort, redness, or vision changes, remove your lenses and consult your eye care professional immediately.

Exploring Advanced Treatments Alongside Contact Lenses

For those with chronic dry eye, lenses alone may not be enough. Advanced treatments can complement lens wear and improve eye health:

• Prescription eye medications: Oral and eyedrop medications can help decrease inflammation and boost tear production.

• Punctal plugs: These tiny devices block tear drainage, helping your eyes remain moist for an extended time. We opt for dissolvable plugs that last several months, as they provide many advantages with minimal risks. The material is akin to that used in surgical stitches. While silicone plugs are designed to last indefinitely, they may cause irritation, so we choose not to use them.

• Dry Eye Treatments: These in-office procedures reduce inflammation and unblock oil glands to enhance tear quality. IPL and RF have benefited many of our patients who want to rely less on drops and feel more comfortable wearing their contacts. Our primary options include Lumenis Optilight, Optiplus, and Optilift. Here is our current list of dry eye and aesthetic treatments.

• Nutritional supplements: Omega-3 fatty acids support healthy tear production.

• Warm compresses and eyelid hygiene: Regular care can reduce inflammation and improve gland function. If you are diagnosed with other conditions such as rosacea, hot compresses may make your inflammation worse.

  
  

Combining these treatments with the right lenses can provide significant relief and better vision quality.

If you want to learn more about contact lenses for dry eyes, Atlanta Eye Associates offers expert guidance and personalized care to help you find the best solution.

Taking the Next Step Toward Comfortable Vision

Living with dry eyes does not mean you have to give up on contact lenses. With the right knowledge and support, you can find lenses that fit your needs and lifestyle. I encourage you to consult with a specialist who understands the complexities of dry eye and lens technology.

At Atlanta Eye Associates, we focus on comprehensive eye care and advanced treatments tailored to your unique condition. Our goal is to help you achieve clear, comfortable vision every day. Don’t let dry eyes hold you back. Reach out today and explore the possibilities of lenses for dry eyes that work for you.