For many contact lens wearers, dry eyes are an uncomfortable reality. If you’re experiencing dryness, redness, or irritation, your contact lenses could be contributing to the problem.
However, did you know there are special contact lenses for dry eyes? At Winnipeg Dry Eye Spa, we are experts at treating dry eye syndrome (DES). We offer tailored solutions to help you enjoy comfortable contact lens wear.
How Contact Lenses Can Contribute to Dry Eyes
Dry eye syndrome occurs when your eyes don’t produce enough tears or the tears evaporate too quickly. For contact lens wearers, the lenses themselves can exacerbate this issue. Here’s how contact lenses can induce dry eyes:
Reduced Oxygen Intake: The cornea, the front part of your eye, relies on direct oxygen from the air. When you wear contact lenses, they can block some of this oxygen, leading to dryness and discomfort, especially as the day goes on.
Tear Absorption: Contact lenses need moisture to stay soft and maintain their shape. As a result, they absorb the tears meant to keep your eyes comfortable. This is particularly problematic with lenses that don’t fit well or are of lower quality.
Gaps in the Tear Film: A healthy tear film creates a comfortable environment for contact lenses. However, if your eyes aren’t producing enough tears, it can lead to gaps in the tear film. This can cause irritation, redness, and itching.
These factors make addressing contact lens-induced dry eye essential to ensure comfortable vision throughout the day.
Solutions for Alleviating Contact Lens-Induced Dry Eye
At Winnipeg Dry Eye Spa, we offer various solutions to help manage dry eye symptoms for contact lens wearers. Our approach focuses on providing personalized care tailored to your specific needs:
Eye Drops for Enhanced Comfort
Using eye drops specifically designed for contact lens wearers can be an effective and simple dry eye treatment. It will help reduce dryness and irritation associated with DES. If over-the-counter options don’t provide relief, our eye doctors can recommend prescription drops tailored to your condition.
Eye Vitamins for Healthier Eyes
Certain vitamins, such as lutein, zeaxanthin, vitamins A and C, and omega-3, can improve overall eye health and increase comfort when wearing contact lenses. These vitamins support the production of healthy tears, helping to alleviate dry eye symptoms.
Silicone Hydrogel Contact Lenses
Silicone hydrogel lenses are an innovative option that allows more oxygen to reach your cornea. This reduces dryness and enhances comfort for longer wear times. These lenses are ideal for those who struggle with dry eyes while wearing traditional soft lenses.
Low Water Content Contact Lenses
Contrary to popular belief, higher water content in lenses doesn’t always mean greater comfort. Low water content lenses can prevent excessive tear film depletion, making them a better choice for those with dry eyes.
Daily Disposable Contact Lenses
Daily disposable lenses are perfect for dry eye sufferers. They minimize the buildup of proteins and debris that can lead to dryness. Since you use a fresh pair each day, these lenses reduce the risk of irritation and provide consistent comfort.
Scleral Lenses for Continuous Moisture
Scleral lenses are large-diameter rigid gas-permeable lenses that create a liquid reservoir between the lens and your cornea. This ensures your eyes stay continuously moist, providing significant relief for those with severe dry eye symptoms.
Orthokeratology (Ortho-K)
Ortho-k lenses are worn overnight to reshape the cornea, temporarily correcting refractive errors. This treatment can reduce the need for daytime contact lens wear, alleviating dry eye symptoms associated with prolonged lens use.
Personalized Care at Winnipeg Dry Eye Spa
We aim to provide a comprehensive and empathetic approach to managing dry eye for contact lens wearers. Our team offers advanced treatments and personalized care plans to address your needs.
If you’re struggling with contact lens-induced dry eye, we’re here to help you find the most effective solutions. Book your appointment in Winnipeg and feel comfortable in your dry eye contact lenses.