Contact Lens Discomfort: Causes and Solutions

Q: Contact Lens Discomfort: Causes and Solutions

Answer： Displacement of contact lenses, especially when they move towards the upper fornix of the eye, is mostly caused by the glasses being too loose. <br>You can ask an optical shop to adjust them or consult a physician for an examination.

Contact lenses

Hello Doctor: I have been using soft contact lenses for two years.
Recently, over the past two to three months, I have noticed that whenever I put them on, the left lens tends to move upwards with just a blink, causing discomfort in my eye.
After removing the lens, I still feel a strange fatigue in that eye, but if I take a break for a day without wearing lenses, the discomfort goes away.
The right eye does not have this issue.
I am nearsighted with a prescription of -8.00 diopters.
Could this be related to wearing contact lenses for too long, or is there a problem with my eye?

Dyan, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2003/05/08

Dr. Wang Ziyang reply Ophthalmology

Answer: Displacement of contact lenses, especially when they move towards the upper fornix of the eye, is mostly caused by the glasses being too loose.
You can ask an optical shop to adjust them or consult a physician for an examination.

Reply Date: 2003/05/08

More Info

It sounds like you're experiencing significant discomfort with your contact lenses, particularly with your left eye. Based on your description, there are several potential factors that could be contributing to this issue, and I will outline them along with possible solutions.

Potential Causes of Discomfort
1. Lens Fit and Movement: The fact that your left contact lens tends to move upwards when you blink suggests that it may not be fitting properly. Contact lenses should sit comfortably on the cornea without excessive movement. If the lens is too loose, it can shift around, leading to discomfort and blurred vision. This could be due to changes in your eye shape over time or simply that the lenses are not the right fit for your eyes.

2. Lens Age and Material: You mentioned that you've been using the same soft contact lenses for two years. Over time, lenses can accumulate deposits from tears, proteins, and lipids, which can affect comfort and vision. Additionally, the material of the lens may degrade over time, leading to a less comfortable experience. Most soft contact lenses are designed to be replaced regularly (e.g., every month or every two weeks), so using them beyond their recommended lifespan can lead to discomfort.

3. Dry Eyes: If you're experiencing fatigue and discomfort after removing your lenses, it could indicate that your eyes are not producing enough tears, leading to dryness. Dry eyes can be exacerbated by prolonged lens wear, environmental factors (like air conditioning or heating), and screen time. This condition can make wearing contact lenses uncomfortable, especially if they are not designed for extended wear.

4. Underlying Eye Conditions: Conditions such as astigmatism, keratoconus, or other corneal irregularities can also affect how contact lenses fit and feel. If your left eye has a different curvature or shape than your right, it may require a different lens type or prescription.

Recommended Solutions
1. Consult an Eye Care Professional: The first step should be to schedule an appointment with your eye care provider. They can assess the fit of your current lenses, check for any underlying issues with your eyes, and determine if a different lens type or prescription is needed. They may also perform tests to evaluate your tear production and overall eye health.

2. Consider Lens Replacement: If your lenses are older than the recommended replacement schedule, consider getting a new pair. Your eye care provider can recommend lenses that are better suited to your needs, including options for dry eyes or specific prescriptions.

3. Use Artificial Tears: If dry eyes are a concern, using preservative-free artificial tears can help lubricate your eyes and improve comfort while wearing lenses. Make sure to use them before inserting your lenses and throughout the day as needed.

4. Evaluate Lens Type: If you frequently experience discomfort, you might want to explore different types of lenses, such as daily disposables, which can reduce the buildup of deposits and provide a fresh lens each day. Additionally, there are lenses specifically designed for dry eyes or those with astigmatism.

5. Practice Good Lens Hygiene: Ensure that you are following proper hygiene practices when handling your lenses. Wash your hands before touching your lenses, clean and store them properly, and avoid wearing them longer than recommended.

6. Take Breaks from Lens Wear: If you find that your eyes feel fatigued after wearing lenses, consider taking breaks from lens wear. Wearing glasses occasionally can give your eyes a chance to rest and recover.

In conclusion, your discomfort with your contact lenses could be due to a combination of factors, including lens fit, age, and potential dry eye issues. Consulting with an eye care professional is crucial to determine the exact cause and find an appropriate solution. Taking proactive steps to address these issues can significantly improve your comfort and eye health.

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