WHY DO YOUR CONTACT LENSES HURT?
The use of contact lenses recommended by an eye doctor is an excellent and convenient way to correct vision problems, but the discomfort or pain that occasionally comes while wearing them is a sign that something is not right. Understanding the possible causes can help you address the issue promptly and protect your eye health.
Below are some common reasons why contact lenses may cause pain:
- Dry Eye
When your eyes do not produce enough natural tears, the surface of the eyes become dry and irritated. This condition known as dry eye, can make contact lens wear uncomfortable or even painful.
How to manage it:
Use lubricating eye drops recommended by your eye doctor.
Stay well-hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
Avoid prolonged exposure to air-conditioned or heated environments that reduce moisture in the air.
- Poorly Fitted Lenses
If your contact lenses are not the correct size or shape for your eyes, they may move around, feel unstable, or even fall out. This improper fit can cause irritation, blurred vision, or discomfort.
What to do:
Schedule an appointment with your eye doctor for a professional contact lens fitting.
Use lenses specifically prescribed for your eye shape and size rather than general ones.
- Torn or Damaged Lenses
Contact lenses are very thin and delicate, making them prone to scratches that may not be immediately visible. Even tiny tears can create rough edges and scratches the outer surface of your cornea, leading to pain or more serious corneal injury.
What to do:
Inspect your lenses before wearing them.
If you notice discomfort after wearing your lenses, remove them and check for damage.
Replace any torn or scratched lenses immediately.
- Allergies
Seasonal or environmental allergies can make your eyes itchy, watery, and red. Wearing contact lenses during an allergic reaction can worsen irritation, making your experience very uncomfortable.
How to manage it:
Take allergy medications recommended by your doctor.
Consider switching to daily disposable contact lenses or spectacle lenses during allergy season to reduce allergen buildup.
- Material or Solution Sensitivity
Some people are sensitive to a specific material used to make contact lens or to the preservative and chemical in the contact lens cleaning solution. This sensitivity can cause discomfort, redness, and irritation.
What to do:
Consult your eye care professional about switching to lenses made from different lens material.
Try preservative-free or alternative lens solution that are gentle on sensitive eyes.
