Know What Type Of Contact Lenses You Should Go For When You Suffer From Dry Eyes
If you’re one of the many individuals who suffer from dry eyes, you know how uncomfortable and even painful this condition can be, particularly when wearing contact lenses. During the winter months, dry eyes can become even more prevalent due to cold, dry air, and indoor heating. However, there are certain types of contact lenses that can help alleviate dry eye symptoms. Here are three options to consider:
1.Soft Lenses
Soft contact lenses (as opposed to hard lenses, or also known as, rigid gas permeable lenses – RGPs) are often better for dry eyes because they hold more water, are more flexible, and are replaced more often (dailies), causing less build-up of deposits, explains Dr. Baik.
Source: [1] Very Well Health
2.Silicone Hydrogel Lenses
Dr. Gary Heiting, O.D., explains that silicone hydrogel lenses are advanced soft lenses that allow more oxygen to pass through the lenses. With more oxygen passing through the lenses, the likelihood of red eyes, eye discomfort and blurred vision decreases.
Source: [1] All About Vision
3.Lens Water Content
Stephanie Watson, writing for Healthline, sheds light on a crucial aspect of contact lens comfort: the water content of the lens itself. It might seem counterintuitive, but lenses with a high water content can actually be more likely to contribute to dry eye symptoms compared to lenses with a low water content. This is due to the way these lenses interact with the tear film on the surface of your eye.
Here’s the explanation:
- High-Water Content Lenses: The Initial Illusion of Comfort When you first insert a contact lens with high water content, it initially feels very moist and comfortable. This is because the lens readily releases its stored water to the ocular surface, providing a sensation of immediate hydration. This can be particularly appealing to people who experience dryness. However, this rapid water release has a downside.
- The Downside: Rapid Dehydration As the day goes on, the high-water content lens, now depleted of its initial moisture, starts to draw water from your eye’s tear film in order to maintain its own water content. This happens because the surrounding environment is often drier than the lens itself. This constant “pull” of moisture from your eye by the lens can lead to tear film instability and, ultimately, the sensation of dry, irritated eyes. Essentially, the lens becomes a sponge, soaking up your precious tears.
- Low-Water Content Lenses: Retaining Moisture On the other hand, contact lenses with low water content do not have the same degree of “water release and subsequent draw.” They do not initially provide the same immediate feeling of hydration. However, because they hold onto moisture more effectively and don’t rely on the tear film as heavily for hydration, they are less likely to cause a drying effect on the eye. They don’t pull so much moisture from your tears and, as a result, tend to maintain a more stable tear film, which is beneficial in preventing dry eye.
Source: [1] Healthline
Don’t Forget Eyedrops
Dr. Ann Marie Griff, a Doctor of Optometry (O.D.), suggests that individuals experiencing dry eye symptoms consider using lubricating eye gels and ointments rather than standard over-the-counter eye drops. The primary reason for this recommendation is that gels and ointments tend to remain in contact with the surface of the eye for a longer duration compared to liquid eye drops. This extended contact time allows for more sustained lubrication and relief from dryness. Furthermore, Dr. Griff also highlights the importance of understanding different types of eye drops for managing dry eye. For individuals requiring long-term treatment, prescription eye drops specifically formulated for dry eye can be beneficial. Additionally, she advises that over-the-counter eye drops that are free of preservatives are often preferred for regular use, as preservatives can sometimes cause irritation or allergic reactions with frequent application.
Source: [1] Healthline
Please note that this article, or any posts published on this website, is not intended to be a substitute for any medical diagnosis, advice or treatment – it’s always important for readers to consult with their medical healthcare professional.
