Wearing contact lenses when you have dry eyes can be challenging. However, there are certain steps you can take to keep your vision clear and ensure that the whole process goes as comfortable as possible.
Dry eye syndrome is an eye condition caused by your eyes not making enough natural tears or producing tears that dry out too quickly. There are many reasons why tear production can be affected, including hormones, environmental conditions, and side effects of certain medications.
As a contact lens wearer, you may be vulnerable to experiencing dry eyes and you may want to talk to your Calgary optometrist if you are suffering from any of the symptoms below:
Luckily, modern-day contact lenses are designed to be as porous as possible, allowing more oxygen into your eye and reducing any discomfort. During a contact lens fitting, your Calgary optometrist can assess your eye health and needs to determine which contact lens is right for you.
Whether you wear contact lenses or eyeglasses, our Calgary optometrists are committed to helping you achieve clear and comfortable vision. We offer a range of services, including emergency eye care, dry eye care, and cataract assessment/management services, to help protect your ocular health and ensure you enjoy optimal eyesight, no matter your age.
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CONTACT OUR CALGARY OPTOMETRISTS
One of the most common complaints amongst patients who wear contact lenses is dry eyes — and while most of the time wearing contact lenses is not the cause of the dry eyes, they can exacerbate the symptoms of this condition.
However, just because you experience dry eye irritation while wearing contact lenses doesn’t mean you have to return to wearing eyeglasses all the time! Here are five simple tips that will help you alleviate any discomfort or painful symptoms of dry eye while wearing contact lenses:
If you suffer from painful dry eyes, your first step should always be to visit your Calgary eye doctor. They can perform a comprehensive eye exam to uncover the root of your dry eye syndrome and recommend the most appropriate treatment. They may also check your contact lenses to see how they move on your eyes to ensure that it isn’t an improper fit that is causing you discomfort.
WHAT TO EXPECT FROM A CONTACT LENS FITTING
Over-the-counter eye drops, also known as artificial tears, are an excellent treatment for alleviating any dry eye discomfort. However, there are many types of eye drops on the market, so before you select a product, make sure to:
There are many eye drops that can not only relieve any redness you may have but can also prevent itchy and watery eyes caused by eye allergies, making contact lens wear much easier and more comfortable.
In general, lightweight, soft contact lenses are less likely to exacerbate the symptoms of dry eyes because they allow for a higher level of water retention when compared to hard lenses.
Check the water content of your lenses: If you suffer from dry eyes and you want to wear contact lenses, make sure to investigate the water content of the lenses. Many of the newer, advanced technologies give the lenses a more comfortable and moisturized feel.
HOW TO MANAGE END OF DAY CONTACT LENS DISCOMFORT
While for many people, it can be tempting to wear your contact lenses from the time you open your eyes until you go to bed, this is not a good idea — especially if you have dry eyes. It is highly recommended that you let your eyes breathe for a few hours without the lens.
Why is this important? Going contact lens free will allow your eyes to get good exposure to oxygen and receive nourishment from your natural tear film without your lenses getting in the way.
To find out more about how our team of Calgary optometrists can help you achieve clear and comfortable vision, whether you are wearing eyeglasses or contact lenses, contact us at our Crowfoot (403-547-5417), West Springs (403-242-0999) or Creekside (403-516-2292) branches.
Blink Eyewear boasts the largest collection of eyewear in Calgary, but our 4 locations are also home to the region’s finest optometrists. Just as you will not find a better store to shop for your eyewear, you will not find a better vision clinic to do your eye exam or treat your eye condition.
Go ahead and Blink; what you see is really what you get. Call one of our store numbers or fill out the form below to book an appointment.