Dealing with Discomfort: Issues with Contact Lens Wear

Issues with Wearing Contact Lenses

Dear Dr.
Chang,
I wear rigid gas permeable contact lenses, but every time I put them on, my eyes often feel itchy.
Initially, my vision becomes blurry with each blink, and then it clears up.
I usually apply lubricating eye drops, but they only provide temporary relief.
After removing the lenses, the area around my eyes feels very uncomfortable, and it can even lead to headaches.
How can I improve this situation? I have previously worn soft contact lenses, but I experienced similar discomfort.
Is it possible that I am not suited for contact lenses?
Additionally, when I wear glasses, the doctor mentioned that my eyes are slightly dry but not dry eye syndrome, and that they are more sensitive.
However, I was not advised against wearing contact lenses; the situation just hasn’t improved.
Thank you, Dr.
Chang!

Xiao Shi, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2006/02/26

Dr. Zhang Yanrui reply Ophthalmology

Rigid gas permeable (RGP) contact lenses can shift slightly after blinking, which may cause a few seconds of blurred vision.
This movement facilitates tear exchange and allows for better oxygen permeability, which is one reason why RGP lenses have a higher oxygen transmissibility compared to soft lenses.
If you experience itching while wearing them, you might try rinsing the lenses with saline solution before wearing them, as some individuals may be allergic to the lens storage solution.
Additionally, it is crucial not to rub your eyes, as this can squeeze the oils from your eyelids into your eyes, causing significant discomfort.
RGP contact lenses are an excellent corrective option, but adapting to them requires patience and perseverance.
If successfully fitted, they can be beneficial for eye health.
When removing contact lenses, you may experience temporary discomfort, such as dizziness or a feeling of pressure in the eyes, which is related to an imbalance in the ciliary muscle.
This is usually not a cause for concern.

Reply Date: 2006/02/26

More Info

Dealing with discomfort while wearing contact lenses can be a frustrating experience, especially when symptoms like itching, blurriness, and headaches arise. Based on your description, it seems that you have been experiencing discomfort with both rigid gas permeable (RGP) lenses and soft contact lenses. Here are some insights and recommendations to help you manage these issues.

Understanding Your Symptoms
1. Itching and Blurriness: The itching sensation you experience upon wearing contact lenses could be due to several factors, including allergies, dryness, or sensitivity to the lens material or cleaning solutions. The initial blurriness that clears up after a blink is not uncommon, especially with RGP lenses, as they may take a moment to settle on the eye.

2. Discomfort After Removal: Feeling discomfort around the eyes and experiencing headaches after removing your lenses could indicate that your eyes are reacting to the lenses or the solutions used for cleaning and storing them. This discomfort can also be a sign of eye fatigue, especially if you are wearing the lenses for extended periods.

3. Dryness and Sensitivity: You mentioned that your eye doctor noted your eyes are slightly dry but not dry eye syndrome. This condition can lead to discomfort when wearing contact lenses, as lenses can exacerbate dryness by drawing moisture away from the eye surface.

Recommendations for Improvement
1. Consult Your Eye Care Professional: Since you have already seen an eye doctor, it’s essential to follow up with them regarding your ongoing discomfort. They may recommend a different type of lens or suggest a different wearing schedule. Sometimes, a trial with a different brand or material can make a significant difference.

2. Consider Lens Options: If you have not already, you might want to explore daily disposable lenses. These lenses can reduce the risk of buildup and irritation since you use a fresh pair each day. Additionally, some lenses are specifically designed for sensitive eyes or those prone to dryness.

3. Use Appropriate Eye Drops: While you mentioned using lubricating drops, ensure they are compatible with contact lenses. Some drops are specifically formulated for use with contacts and can provide relief without causing cloudiness. Avoid using drops that contain preservatives, as they can irritate sensitive eyes.

4. Adjust Wearing Schedule: If you are wearing your lenses for long periods, consider reducing the duration. Start with shorter wear times and gradually increase as your eyes adjust. Make sure to give your eyes breaks by wearing glasses during part of the day.

5. Maintain Proper Hygiene: Ensure that you are following the recommended hygiene practices for contact lens care. This includes washing your hands before handling lenses, cleaning and storing them properly, and replacing them as directed.

6. Environmental Factors: Be aware of your environment. Factors like air conditioning, heating, and exposure to smoke or dust can exacerbate dryness and discomfort. Using a humidifier in dry environments can help maintain moisture in the air.

7. Monitor for Allergies: If you suspect allergies, consider discussing this with your eye care provider. They may recommend allergy testing or suggest antihistamine eye drops to alleviate symptoms.

Conclusion
While it may seem that contact lenses are not suitable for you, many individuals with similar issues can find relief through adjustments and proper care. It’s crucial to maintain open communication with your eye care professional, as they can provide tailored advice based on your specific situation. If discomfort persists despite trying these recommendations, it may be worth considering alternative vision correction methods, such as glasses or even surgical options, depending on your vision needs and lifestyle. Remember, your comfort and eye health should always come first.

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