Why Do My Eyes Tear Up When Trying Contact Lenses? - Ophthalmology

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When it comes to wearing contact lenses, experiencing tearing, discomfort, and sensitivity can be quite common, especially for individuals with a history of eye trauma or sensitivity. Based on your description, it seems that your right eye has a history of trauma from being hit by a ball, which could indeed contribute to your current sensitivity to contact lenses.

Firstly, let’s discuss the mechanics of how contact lenses work and why they might cause tearing or discomfort. Contact lenses sit directly on the surface of the eye, specifically on the cornea, which is a sensitive and delicate layer. When you first attempt to wear contact lenses, especially if you are not accustomed to them, your eyes may react negatively due to the foreign object resting on them. This can lead to a sensation of discomfort or an "alien" feeling, which is often exacerbated if there is any underlying sensitivity or previous injury to the eye.

In your case, the history of trauma to your right eye could have resulted in changes to the cornea or surrounding tissues, making your eye more sensitive to the presence of contact lenses. The fact that you experienced significant tearing and redness suggests that your eye was reacting defensively to what it perceived as an irritant. The tearing is a natural response; your eyes produce tears to wash away irritants and protect themselves from discomfort.
Moreover, if your eye was previously injured, it might have developed a heightened sensitivity to touch or pressure. This could explain why you felt an intense foreign body sensation when the contact lens was placed on your eye. The cornea has many nerve endings, and any irritation can trigger a strong response, leading to tearing and discomfort.

It’s also worth noting that the fitting of contact lenses is crucial. If the lenses are not the right size or shape for your eyes, they can cause significant discomfort. An improper fit can lead to issues such as corneal abrasions, which could further complicate your ability to wear contact lenses comfortably.
Given your experience, it would be advisable to consult with an eye care professional who specializes in contact lenses. They can conduct a thorough examination of your eyes, assess the health of your cornea, and determine if there are any underlying issues that need to be addressed. They may also recommend specific types of lenses that are designed for sensitive eyes or provide alternative options such as daily disposables, which can be more comfortable for first-time users.

In the meantime, if you are interested in trying contact lenses again in the future, consider the following tips:
1. Start with Daily Disposables: These lenses are typically thinner and more comfortable, and you can discard them after one use, reducing the risk of irritation.

2. Ensure Proper Fit: Work with an experienced optometrist or ophthalmologist to find the right fit for your lenses. They can help you choose a lens that accommodates any sensitivities you may have.

3. Practice Good Hygiene: Always wash your hands before handling contact lenses, and ensure that your lenses are clean and properly stored.

4. Consider Eye Drops: If your eyes are dry or sensitive, using preservative-free artificial tears before and after wearing lenses can help keep your eyes lubricated.

5. Take Breaks: If you experience discomfort, it’s important to remove the lenses and give your eyes a break. Gradually increasing the time you wear them can help your eyes adjust.

In conclusion, your sensitivity to contact lenses could be linked to your previous eye injury, and it’s essential to approach this issue with care. Consulting with an eye care professional will provide you with the best guidance tailored to your specific situation, ensuring that you can safely explore the option of wearing contact lenses in the future.