Contact Lenses and Dry Eye Syndrome

Millions of people already know that contact lenses and Dry Eye Syndrome don't work well together; what they don't know is that the contact lens industry is fighting back.

Thanks to recent improvements in contact lens technology, people who suffer from dry eyes and contact lenses discomfort now have more options for dry eye than ever before.  Many contact lens manufacturers have spent years researching ways to create contact lenses for dry eyes. 

Admittedly, the wearing of contact lenses only magnifies the symptoms of Dry Eye Syndrome in many people.  However, in most cases, that is because of outdated lenses and technology.  These days, manufacturers are finding ways to design contact lenses in a way that not only reduces the discomfort caused by dry eye syndrome, but fights the symptoms altogether. 

Proclear contact lenses, for example, use their patented technology to use membranes found in human cells to combat dryness and retain moisture.  This has created a lens that is designed specifically for people who suffer from dry eyes, and even prompted the FDA to issue the following statement:  “(Proclear Compatibles) may provide comfort for contact lens wearers who experience mild discomfort or symptoms relating to dryness during lens wear.”

Other brands, such as Acuvue Oasys lenses, focus on increasing oxygen permeability.  Contact lenses restrict the amount of oxygen that reaches the cornea; and when the eye lacks oxygen, it “suffocates” and is unable to produce natural tears.  With increased oxygen permeability, people who suffered from contact-induced dry eyes in the past now have alternative options.  

So, if you suffer from dry eyes and have tried unsuccessfully to wear contact lenses in the past, perhaps it's time to try it again.  Many manufacturers and suppliers offer free trials of their contact lenses, which is a great way to “try on” a pair of lenses before you commit to investing in them as your new lens. 

There are other steps you can take to reduce the problems of contact lenses and dry eye.  Make sure that if you already have lenses that you are using the right contact lense solution.  One of the main causes of dry eye in contact lens users is that they are using the wrong contact lense care products with their specific lenses.  Not all contact lens brands are compatible with all solutions; it is imperative that you ask your eye care professional or your contact lens manufacturer which solutions you should be using.  This is a simple remedy that can cure your issues between contact lenses and dry eyes forever. 

Make sure you clean your lenses as instructed, and every time you remove them from your eyes.  Also, contact lenses increase the sensitivity of eyes to sunlight.  Make sure you wear sunglasses whenever you go outside; wearing sunglasses that also protect your eyes from wind will help even more. 

Even if you had bad luck with contact lenses and dry eye in the past, it's worth it to try again.  You just might find the comfortable lens you've been waiting for. 
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