Dry eyes occur when your eyes do not produce enough tears, or when the tears evaporate too quickly. This lack of moisture can make wearing contact lenses uncomfortable and sometimes unbearable. Despite these challenges, there's no need to abandon the convenience of contact lenses entirely. With the right knowledge and approach, you can still enjoy the benefits of contact lenses, even if you have dry eyes.

The Impact of Dry Eyes on Contact Lens Wearers

Dry eyes can significantly impact the comfort and performance of your contact lenses. Those of us with dry eyes often find contact lenses to be irritating, as the lack of adequate tear production leaves the eye surface drier than usual. This dryness can cause discomfort, redness, and blurry vision, making it difficult to wear contact lenses for extended periods.

Additionally, dry eyes can affect the longevity of your contact lenses. Without sufficient lubrication, contact lenses can dry out and lose their shape, making them less effective over time. This can lead to increased eye strain and even potential damage to the eye.

Despite these challenges, there are solutions available. Selecting the right contact lenses for dry eyes can make a huge difference in your comfort and vision quality.

Choosing the Right Contact Lenses for Dry Eyes

When it comes to choosing contact lenses for dry eyes, it's all about finding the right fit and material. Many new types of contact lenses are designed specifically to combat the discomfort caused by dry eyes.

Soft contact lenses, for example, are often recommended for individuals with dry eyes. These lenses are made from flexible plastic that allows oxygen to pass through to the cornea, providing a higher level of comfort than traditional hard lenses. Additionally, daily disposable lenses can be a good option as they are discarded at the end of the day, reducing the chance of buildup and irritation.

Silicone hydrogel lenses are another excellent option for dry eyes. They allow more oxygen to reach the cornea than traditional soft lenses and retain moisture better. However, they may not be suitable for everyone, so it's essential to consult with your eye doctor before making a decision.

The Role of Scleral Lenses

One type of lens that has shown significant promise for dry eye sufferers is the scleral lens. Scleral lenses are larger than typical contact lenses and rest on the white part of the eye, known as the sclera. They create a tear-filled vault over the cornea, providing constant hydration and reducing dryness.

Scleral lenses can be a game-changer for people with severe dry eyes. By keeping the cornea continuously bathed in a fluid reservoir, they help to alleviate dryness and irritation, providing superior comfort throughout the day.

Tips for Maximizing Comfort with Contact Lenses

Apart from choosing the right contact lenses for dry eyes, there are other steps you can take to maximize your comfort while wearing them. First, maintaining good eye hygiene is crucial. Make sure to clean and disinfect your lenses regularly to prevent buildup and irritation.

Second, take breaks from wearing your lenses, especially during activities that can cause eye strain, such as computer work. 

And finally, stay hydrated and maintain a healthy diet. Good hydration and nutrition can help improve tear production and overall eye health.

Achieving Maximum Comfort with the Right Contacts for Dry Eyes

Living with dry eyes doesn't mean you have to give up the convenience and freedom offered by contact lenses. By understanding the causes of dry eyes, choosing the right contact lenses like scleral lenses, and following tips for maximizing comfort, you can continue to enjoy clear, comfortable vision.

If you are experiencing dry eye, consult our professionals for the right contact lenses for your specific needs. Visit Dry Eye Center of Alabama & Family Eye Care in our Homewood, Alabama office. Call (205) 490-2322 to schedule an appointment today.