Discomfort with Rigid Contact Lenses for High Myopia

Rigid gas permeable contact lenses

Dear Doctor,
I haven't worn contact lenses for a year.
Previously, I used soft lenses, but recently I switched to rigid gas permeable lenses, as I've heard they are better for people with high myopia like me.
However, after wearing them for two weeks, I have been experiencing discomfort.
While using the computer, my vision often appears hazy, and my eyes keep watering.
Sometimes my vision is clear, but other times it is blurry, and after a while, my eyes feel dry.
What could be the reason for this? Is it possible that my lenses are not properly fitted, or am I simply unable to wear contact lenses anymore? Please help me with my concerns.
Thank you!
Sincerely,
Jackson

jackson, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2005/07/13

Dr. Zhang Yanrui reply Ophthalmology

Rigid gas permeable contact lenses are indeed healthier for the eyes, but they have the drawback of causing a significant foreign body sensation.
Additionally, in the afternoon, a layer of lipids can form on the lenses, preventing tears from adhering properly and leading to blurred vision, which is especially severe in patients with dry eye syndrome.
At this point, simply removing the contact lenses, cleaning them, and reapplying them can greatly improve the situation.
Furthermore, some individuals may be allergic to the storage solution; rinsing the lenses with saline solution before wearing them can significantly reduce itching symptoms.

Reply Date: 2005/07/13

More Info

Hi Jackson,
Thank you for reaching out with your concerns regarding the discomfort you're experiencing with your new rigid gas permeable (RGP) contact lenses. It's not uncommon for individuals with high myopia to face challenges when transitioning from soft contact lenses to rigid ones, and I’d like to provide some insights into your situation.

Firstly, RGP lenses are often recommended for high myopia because they provide sharper vision and better oxygen permeability compared to soft lenses. However, they can take some time to get used to, especially if you have been wearing soft lenses for a long time. The discomfort you're feeling, including the foggy vision and excessive tearing, can be attributed to several factors.

1. Adaptation Period: When switching to RGP lenses, your eyes may need time to adjust. This adaptation period can last from a few days to a couple of weeks. During this time, it’s normal to experience some discomfort, dryness, or fluctuating vision. If the discomfort persists beyond this period, it may indicate a need for further evaluation.

2. Lens Fit: Proper fitting is crucial for RGP lenses. If the lenses are too tight or too loose, they can cause discomfort and affect your vision. An ill-fitting lens can lead to inadequate tear exchange, resulting in dryness and foggy vision. It’s essential to have your lenses checked by your eye care professional to ensure they fit correctly.

3. Tear Film Stability: RGP lenses can disrupt the natural tear film on the surface of your eye. If your eyes are not producing enough tears or if the tear film is unstable, you may experience dryness and discomfort. This can be exacerbated by prolonged screen time, as staring at a computer can reduce your blink rate, leading to dryness. Consider using preservative-free artificial tears to help maintain moisture.

4. Lens Care: Proper cleaning and maintenance of your RGP lenses are vital. Ensure you are following the recommended cleaning regimen and using the appropriate solutions. Poor lens hygiene can lead to deposits on the lenses, which can cause irritation and affect vision clarity.

5. Underlying Conditions: If you have any underlying eye conditions, such as dry eye syndrome or allergies, these could also contribute to your discomfort. It’s essential to discuss any pre-existing conditions with your eye care provider, as they may need to be addressed before you can comfortably wear RGP lenses.

6. Consultation with Your Eye Care Provider: Given your ongoing discomfort, I highly recommend scheduling a follow-up appointment with your eye care professional. They can assess the fit of your lenses, evaluate your tear film, and determine if any adjustments or alternative options are necessary. They may also consider switching back to soft lenses if RGP lenses are not suitable for you.

In conclusion, while RGP lenses can be beneficial for individuals with high myopia, they may not be the best fit for everyone. Your comfort and vision quality are paramount, so don’t hesitate to seek further assistance from your eye care provider. They can help you navigate this transition and ensure you find the best solution for your visual needs.

Wishing you the best in your eye care journey!
Best regards,
Doctor Q&A Teams

Similar Q&A

Can I Wear Contact Lenses with High Myopia and Glaucoma?

Hello Doctor: My current eye condition is as follows: I have high myopia (800-900), with several retinal tears, and I have been diagnosed with signs of glaucoma after undergoing laser reinforcement. I am currently using eye drops for management. Aside from these conditions, I do ...

Dr. He Jianxian reply Ophthalmology
Wearing contact lenses is not significantly related to your current eye condition. As long as you do not wear them for extended periods and do not experience any noticeable discomfort while wearing them, there should not be any major issues.

Understanding Contact Lenses for High Myopia: Myths and Facts

I am a person with high myopia (800 degrees). Recently, when I went to get glasses, the optical shop said that wearing contact lenses, especially rigid gas permeable lenses, can help slow down the progression of myopia. They also mentioned that as long as my vision reaches 0.8, w...

Dr. Liang Ce reply Ophthalmology
Generally, the likelihood of myopia increasing after the age of 20 is low. Soft contact lenses do not effectively inhibit the progression of myopia; only rigid gas permeable lenses have some degree of effectiveness, but this is not guaranteed. The prescription for regular glasses...

Challenges with Contact Lenses: Removal Difficulties and Prescription Options

1. I have been having difficulty removing my contact lenses lately; it takes a long time to take them out. I wear them for about ten hours a day, but I have worn many pairs before without this issue. I recently changed my contact lens solution; could this be related? (I have been...

Dr. Ke Meilan reply Ophthalmology
Hello: 1. The most likely cause is dry eyes, which is related to the high evaporation rate of contact lenses with high water content. You can apply a drop of saline solution before removing the contact lenses. 2. It is possible. 3. Sincerely, Dr. Mei-Lan Ke, Ophthalmologist.

Managing High Myopia: Causes, Prevention, and Treatment Options

Hello Doctor: I am a person with high myopia, and currently, both of my eyes have a prescription of over 1000 degrees. Isn't it true that after reaching a certain age, the increase in prescription typically slows down? However, my prescription has been increasing by about 10...

Dr. Hu Yusheng reply Ophthalmology
Hello, Ms. Jiun! Some patients with high myopia may experience an increase in their myopic degree even after puberty. The use of cycloplegic agents (ciliary muscle relaxants) is one of the control methods that can be considered. Neither soft nor rigid contact lenses can prevent t...