Yes, eye contacts can cause dry eyes.
Contact lenses are more likely to contribute to dry eyes compared to wearing glasses. While contacts offer benefits like improved vision during activities without blurriness, they can disrupt the natural tear film on the eye's surface. This disruption can lead to discomfort, irritation, and the sensation of dry eyes.
Here's why contact lenses can cause dry eyes:
- Reduced Oxygen Flow: Contact lenses can limit the amount of oxygen reaching the cornea, which can affect tear production.
- Tear Film Disruption: Lenses can interfere with the tear film, leading to faster evaporation of tears.
- Water Absorption: Some contact lens materials can absorb moisture from the tear film, contributing to dryness.
- Environmental Factors: External factors like dry air, prolonged screen time, and certain medications can exacerbate dryness while wearing contacts.
If you experience dry eyes while wearing contact lenses, consider the following:
- Use lubricating eye drops: Over-the-counter eye drops can provide temporary relief.
- Reduce wear time: Limit the number of hours you wear your contacts each day.
- Switch lens type: Different lens materials and designs may be more comfortable for dry eyes. Silicone hydrogel lenses, for example, allow more oxygen to reach the cornea.
- Consider daily disposables: These lenses are fresh each day, minimizing protein buildup and potential irritation.
- Talk to your eye doctor: They can assess your dry eye symptoms and recommend personalized solutions.
If natural remedies and over-the-counter solutions don't provide sufficient relief, consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation and treatment options.
