Many people rely on contact lenses every day, but what starts as comfortable wear in the morning can turn into dry, itchy, or irritated eyes by the afternoon. If you’ve been noticing redness, discomfort, or persistent dryness, it doesn’t have to be part of your routine. Our experienced eye doctors in Jacksonville can uncover the cause and help you find lenses that keep your eyes healthy and comfortable all day.
In this blog, we’ll cover common reasons contact lenses cause irritation and share expert tips to prevent dryness, itching, and discomfort while wearing them.
Why your contact lenses might feel uncomfortable
Several factors can cause discomfort, and sometimes it’s a combination of issues:
- Poor lens fit: Lenses that don’t match your eye’s shape or size can rub against your eyes and cause irritation.
- Lens material: Some lens materials dry out faster or may not be right for sensitive eyes.
- Dry eyes: Low humidity, air-conditioned spaces, or long hours on screens can cause dry eyes.
- Hygiene habits: Not cleaning lenses properly or using an old lens case can lead to irritation or infection.
- Overwear: Keeping your lenses in longer than recommended or sleeping with them in strains and dries out your eyes.
How to prevent and relieve contact lens irritation
Here’s how to keep your eyes feeling great while wearing contact lenses:
Make sure your lenses fit properly
A proper fit is essential for comfortable wear. During a contact lens exam, our eye doctor will evaluate your prescription and eye shape to make sure your lenses sit comfortably.
For people with dry eyes, irregular corneas, or conditions like keratoconus, specialty contact lenses, such as scleral lenses, are often more comfortable than standard lenses. Scleral contact lenses rest on the sclera (the white part of your eye) instead of the cornea, holding a layer of moisture against the eye for lasting comfort.
Pick the best lens type for your eyes
Daily disposable lenses or lenses made for sensitive eyes can help keep your eyes lubricated and reduce irritation.
Follow best practices for lens care and hygiene
Always wash your hands before touching your lenses, clean your lens case regularly, and follow your optometrist’s instructions for cleaning solutions.
Give your eyes a break
Avoid wearing lenses longer than recommended, and wear glasses occasionally to give your eyes a rest.
Keep your eyes lubricated
To prevent dryness and irritation, you can use lubricating eye drops approved for contact lenses and stay hydrated with plenty of water.
When to book an eye exam
Even if you follow best practices, contact lens discomfort can still happen. If your eyes stay red, sore, or irritated, schedule a comprehensive eye exam in Jacksonville at Baymeadows Vision Center. Our optometrists can check for allergies, prescription changes, or lens fit issues and recommend solutions to improve comfort. Switching to a different lens type, trying specialty contact lenses, or adjusting your wearing schedule can help your eyes feel comfortable again.
Enjoy clear, comfortable vision all day
Wearing contact lenses should help you see clearly without causing discomfort. From everyday lenses to specialty contact lenses for dry eyes or keratoconus, our skilled eye doctors will help you find the right lenses for your eyes. Regular contact lens exams, proper lens care, and attention to your eye health ensure your eyes stay hydrated and comfortable from morning to night.
Schedule your contact lens exam at Baymeadows Vision Center today and enjoy clear, irritation-free vision every day.
