What are dry eyes?
Dry eye syndrome is a condition that occurs when your tear glands cannot produce enough natural tears to keep your eyes lubricated. It can lead to eye irritation, blurred vision, and even vision loss in some cases. Many people who suffer from dry eyes wonder if wearing contact lenses would make their symptoms worse.
Can people with dry eyes wear contact lenses?
The answer is not straightforward, as it depends on the severity of your dry eye syndrome. If you have only mild or occasional symptoms, you may be able to wear contact lenses without any issues. However, if your dry eyes are severe or chronic, you may need to avoid contact lenses altogether.
What should I do before trying contact lenses?
If you’re interested in wearing contact lenses and have a history of dry eyes, it’s important to consult with an eye doctor first. They can assess the health of your eyes and determine if you’re a good candidate for contact lenses. They may also recommend specific types of lenses or eye drops to help manage your dry eye symptoms while wearing contacts.
What types of contact lenses are best for people with dry eyes?
There are several types of contact lenses that may be more suitable for people with dry eyes. For example, silicone hydrogel lenses are designed to retain moisture and allow more oxygen to reach the cornea, which can help prevent dryness. Additionally, daily disposable lenses can be an excellent option for people with dry eyes, as they provide a fresh, clean lens that won’t accumulate debris or irritants that can worsen dry eye symptoms.
How can I manage dry eye symptoms while wearing contact lenses?
Even if you’re wearing the best type of contact lenses for your dry eyes, you may still experience some discomfort or irritation. Fortunately, there are several ways to manage your symptoms while wearing contacts. One option is to use artificial tears or lubricating eye drops to keep your eyes moist and comfortable throughout the day. You can also try taking frequent breaks from wearing your contacts, particularly if you spend a lot of time looking at a computer or other digital screen. Finally, talk to your eye doctor about other strategies you can use to manage your dry eye syndrome while wearing contacts.
