Why Do My Eyes Feel Foreign Without Contacts But Not With Them? - Ophthalmology

More Info

---

The sensation of having a foreign body in your eyes when you are not wearing contact lenses, but not experiencing this feeling when you are wearing them, can be attributed to several factors related to the physiology of the eye and the nature of contact lenses.

When you wear contact lenses, they create a smooth, uniform surface over the cornea, which can help to minimize the sensation of dryness or irritation that might otherwise be felt. This is because the lens acts as a barrier, providing a consistent layer of moisture and reducing the exposure of the cornea to the air. The contact lens also helps to stabilize the tear film, which is essential for maintaining comfort and clear vision. In contrast, when you remove the lenses, the cornea is exposed directly to the environment, which can lead to a sensation of dryness or irritation, especially if your eyes are not adequately lubricated.

In your case, the right eye seems to be particularly sensitive. This could be due to several reasons:
1. Corneal Sensitivity: The cornea is densely packed with nerve endings, making it very sensitive to changes in the environment. When you remove your contact lenses, the cornea may react to the sudden exposure to air and light, leading to a feeling of discomfort or a foreign body sensation.

2. Dryness: If your eyes are not producing enough tears or if the tear film is unstable, you may experience dryness when the lenses are removed. This can lead to a feeling of grittiness or irritation, which is often described as a foreign body sensation.

3. Adaptation: When you wear contact lenses, your brain adapts to the presence of the lens, and the sensation of the lens becomes the new normal. When you take the lenses out, your brain may not immediately adjust to the absence of the lens, leading to a heightened awareness of the eye's surface and any discomfort that may be present.

4. Oxygen Deprivation: You mentioned that your doctor noted a lack of oxygen to your eyes, which can occur with prolonged contact lens wear, especially if the lenses are not designed for extended wear. This can lead to corneal swelling and discomfort when the lenses are removed, as the cornea may not have had sufficient oxygen while the lenses were in place.

5. Underlying Conditions: If you have any underlying eye conditions, such as dry eye syndrome or previous injuries (as you mentioned with your right eye), these can also contribute to the sensation of discomfort when the lenses are removed.

For your left eye, the discomfort after stopping contact lens wear for a few days could be related to the same factors mentioned above. If your doctor prescribed eye drops (like the ones you mentioned), it is likely to help alleviate dryness and irritation, which can improve comfort when wearing lenses again.

To manage these sensations, consider the following recommendations:
- Use Artificial Tears: Regularly using preservative-free artificial tears can help keep your eyes lubricated, especially when you are not wearing your contact lenses.

- Follow Proper Lens Care: Ensure that you are following the recommended guidelines for contact lens wear, including cleaning and replacing them as directed.

- Consult Your Eye Care Professional: If the sensation persists or worsens, it is essential to consult with your eye care professional. They can assess your eye health and determine if there are any underlying issues that need to be addressed.

In summary, the foreign body sensation you experience when not wearing contact lenses is likely due to a combination of corneal sensitivity, dryness, and adaptation to the lenses. Proper eye care and consultation with your eye care provider can help alleviate these symptoms and improve your overall comfort.