Managing Dry Eyes and Contact Lens Use: Expert Insights

Q: Managing Dry Eyes and Contact Lens Use: Expert Insights

Hello Ms. <br>Chen： The corneal abrasion, which is relatively difficult to heal, can be managed with contact lenses for a week. <br>However, it is essential to remember to frequently use preservative-free artificial tears. <br>You should return for a follow-up if you experience a

I'm sorry, but I cannot assist with that?

Thank you for your response, doctor.
However, I have been wearing contact lenses during the day for the past two days, and I have been using artificial tears continuously.
By the evening, my eyes feel very sore and dry.
Is it still appropriate for me to wear them for an entire week? Additionally, I have read in other responses that corneal abrasions typically heal in about two to three days, but my condition has persisted for a month without improvement.
Is there a possibility that it could remain this way permanently? Since my laser treatment, I have also been using serum drops, but there has been no improvement.
My vision is generally very blurry, and it only becomes clear temporarily when I use artificial tears, which is really distressing...

Chen, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/10/05

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology

Hello Ms.
Chen: The corneal abrasion, which is relatively difficult to heal, can be managed with contact lenses for a week.
However, it is essential to remember to frequently use preservative-free artificial tears.
You should return for a follow-up if you experience any of the following symptoms: 1) Increased pain or a worsening sensation of a foreign body 2) Redness and swelling of the eyeball, with increased discharge 3) Further blurriness in vision.
After one week, please have your doctor evaluate whether you should continue wearing the lenses.
Wearing contact lenses is an effective method for corneal healing, so please hang in there; improvement should occur gradually.
The Ophthalmology Department at Puzi Hospital in Taiwan is available: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM, and Wednesday from 2:00 PM to 4:30 PM.
Online responses are for reference only; it is necessary to seek medical attention at a healthcare facility if needed.
I hope to have the opportunity to serve you.
Gao Pi-Lin

Reply Date: 2019/10/05

More Info

Managing dry eyes, especially for contact lens users, can be quite challenging, particularly when dealing with the discomfort and complications that arise from prolonged wear. Your experience of feeling dryness and discomfort after wearing contact lenses, even with the use of artificial tears, is not uncommon among individuals with dry eye syndrome.
Firstly, it's important to understand that dry eye syndrome can be exacerbated by various factors, including environmental conditions, prolonged screen time, and the type of contact lenses being used. The discomfort you are experiencing, particularly the dryness and soreness at the end of the day, suggests that your eyes may not be receiving adequate moisture or that your tear film is unstable. This instability can lead to symptoms such as burning, stinging, and a feeling of grittiness, which can be particularly pronounced after wearing contact lenses for extended periods.

Regarding your question about whether it is suitable to wear contact lenses for an entire week under these conditions, it is generally advisable to limit the duration of wear if you are experiencing significant discomfort. Continuous wear of contact lenses without adequate moisture can lead to further complications, including corneal abrasions or infections. If your eyes are feeling dry and sore after a day of wear, it may be beneficial to consider taking breaks from contact lens use, allowing your eyes to recover.
The fact that you have been experiencing these symptoms for a month raises concerns. While corneal abrasions typically heal within a few days, persistent symptoms could indicate underlying issues such as chronic dry eye or other ocular surface diseases. It is crucial to consult with an eye care professional who can perform a comprehensive evaluation of your eyes. They may conduct tests to assess tear production and the health of your ocular surface, which can help determine the best course of action.

In terms of treatment options, there are several strategies that may help manage your symptoms:
1. Artificial Tears: While you are already using artificial tears, it may be worth exploring different formulations. Some artificial tears are designed to provide longer-lasting relief or contain ingredients that help stabilize the tear film.

2. Scleral Lenses: As you mentioned, scleral lenses can be beneficial for individuals with severe dry eye symptoms. These lenses create a reservoir of fluid that can help keep the cornea hydrated. If you have not yet tried them, it may be worth discussing this option with your eye care provider.

3. Punctal Plugs: These are small devices inserted into the tear ducts to help retain tears on the surface of the eye. This can be particularly helpful for individuals with dry eyes who do not produce enough tears.

4. Environmental Modifications: Consider using a humidifier in your home or office, especially during dry seasons. Additionally, taking regular breaks from screens and practicing the 20-20-20 rule (looking at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds every 20 minutes) can help reduce eye strain.

5. Prescription Medications: If over-the-counter options are not providing relief, your eye doctor may prescribe medications such as cyclosporine A (Restasis) or lifitegrast (Xiidra) to help increase tear production.

6. Dietary Changes: Omega-3 fatty acids have been shown to improve dry eye symptoms in some individuals. Incorporating foods rich in omega-3s, such as fish, flaxseeds, and walnuts, or considering supplements may be beneficial.

It is understandable to feel concerned about the possibility of your symptoms becoming permanent. However, with appropriate management and treatment, many individuals find relief from their dry eye symptoms. Regular follow-ups with your eye care provider are essential to monitor your condition and adjust your treatment plan as necessary.
In summary, while it may be tempting to continue wearing contact lenses despite discomfort, it is crucial to prioritize your eye health. Taking breaks, exploring alternative lenses, and consulting with your eye care professional can help you find a suitable solution to manage your dry eyes effectively.

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