Some mornings, your contact lenses feel perfect. However, by the afternoon, your eyes are dry, itchy, or red. Eye irritation doesn’t have to be part of your day. Some small changes to your lens type, fit, or daily routine can help your eyes stay comfortable and hydrated all day.
Why are my contact lenses irritating my eyes?
Contact lens discomfort can happen for several reasons, often from more than one factor at a time:
- Lens fit: Lenses that don’t match your eyes’ shape can rub and irritate your eyes.
- Lens material: Some lenses dry out faster or may not be the best option for sensitive eyes.
- Dry eyes: Air conditioning, screen time, or not drinking enough water can cause or worsen dry eyes.
- Hygiene habits: Improper cleaning of lenses or cases can lead to discomfort or infection.
- Wearing schedule: Wearing lenses longer than recommended or sleeping in them can leave your eyes red or tired.
Understanding the cause of irritation helps you find the right solution.
How to manage contact lens irritation
Try these tips to reduce irritation and keep your eyes comfortable while wearing contact lenses:
Check your lens fit
During a contact lens exam, your eye doctor evaluates your eyes and prescription to find lenses that fit properly. Lenses that match your eyes’ shape reduce rubbing, dryness, and discomfort throughout the day.
Pick the right type of lenses
Daily disposables, lenses designed for sensitive eyes, or specialty contact lenses may be more comfortable than your current contacts. If you have chronic dry eyes or irregular corneas, scleral lenses can provide additional relief and sharper vision.
Practice good lens care
Always wash your hands before handling lenses, replace your lens case regularly, and use the cleaning solutions recommended by your eye doctor. Following proper hygiene keeps your eyes healthy and prevents irritation.
Give your eyes breaks
Don’t wear lenses longer than recommended. Take breaks by wearing glasses for a few hours each day to give your eyes a chance to rest.
Keep your eyes hydrated
Use lubricating drops made for contact lenses and stay hydrated by drinking water throughout the day. Moist eyes feel more comfortable and are less likely to become irritated.
When to call your eye doctor
If irritation continues despite following these tips, schedule a comprehensive eye exam. Our skilled eye doctors can check for dryness, allergies, or prescription changes and recommend lenses that feel better. Even small adjustments, like changing lens type or updating your prescription, can restore comfort.
Visit our Contact Lens Clinic
At Eye Opening Designs inside True Focus Eye Care, our Contact Lens Clinic is dedicated to helping every patient find the perfect lenses for their eyes, even those with complex needs.
Led by board-certified optometrist Dr. Veronia Abadeer, our clinic specializes in advanced options like scleral lenses, corneal gas permeable lenses, and soft prosthetic lenses for conditions such as keratoconus, corneal degeneration, and severe dry eye. Dr. Abadeer is known for her personalized approach and passion for restoring functional, comfortable vision to patients who haven’t found relief elsewhere.
Schedule your contact lens exam today to keep your eyes hydrated, irritation-free, and seeing their best—no matter what your day holds.
