No, contact lenses should not be painful. If you experience pain while wearing them, consult your eye doctor immediately.
While initial discomfort is possible as your eyes adjust to new lenses, actual pain is a sign of a problem. Here's a breakdown of what you might experience and what pain could indicate:
Expected Sensations vs. Pain
| Sensation | Description | Action Required |
|---|---|---|
| Slight Awareness | You might feel the lens sitting on your eye, especially at first. | This usually subsides as you get used to wearing contacts. |
| Mild Dryness | Contacts can sometimes cause dryness, especially in dry environments. | Use lubricating eye drops recommended by your eye doctor. |
| Occasional Irritation | Dust or debris can get under the lens. | Remove, clean, and reinsert the lens. If irritation persists, remove the lens. |
| Pain | Sharp, persistent, or throbbing sensation. | Remove the lens immediately and consult your eye doctor. |
Potential Causes of Contact Lens Pain
Several factors can cause pain associated with contact lens wear:
- Corneal Abrasion: A scratch on the cornea (the clear front surface of the eye). This is a common cause of pain with contacts and usually requires medical attention.
- Infection: Bacteria, viruses, or fungi can infect the cornea, leading to pain, redness, and discharge.
- Dry Eye: Severe dry eye can cause the lenses to rub against the cornea, causing pain.
- Foreign Body: A particle trapped under the lens can cause significant discomfort and pain.
- Poorly Fitting Lenses: Lenses that are too tight or too loose can irritate the eye.
- Allergic Reaction: Some people may be allergic to the lens material or cleaning solutions.
- Giant Papillary Conjunctivitis (GPC): An allergic reaction that causes bumps to form on the underside of the eyelid, leading to discomfort and pain.
What to Do If You Experience Contact Lens Pain
- Remove the Lens Immediately: This is the first and most important step.
- Rinse Your Eye: Use sterile saline solution to rinse your eye and remove any potential debris.
- Do Not Reinsert the Lens: Avoid wearing the lens again until you have seen your eye doctor.
- Consult Your Eye Doctor: Schedule an appointment as soon as possible to determine the cause of the pain and receive appropriate treatment.
In summary, wearing contact lenses should be a comfortable experience. If you experience pain, it is crucial to address the issue promptly with your eye doctor to prevent potential complications and maintain healthy vision.
