Discomfort with Rigid Gas Permeable Contact Lenses: A Guide

Wearing Rigid Gas Permeable (RGP) Contact Lenses

Hello Dr.
Wang, I have a few questions regarding rigid gas permeable contact lenses.
Last year, I got a pair of rigid gas permeable lenses with an oxygen permeability of 45.
I chose them considering my astigmatism and the convenience of cleaning.
At the time of fitting, the optical shop informed me that I would initially experience a foreign body sensation and that I would need to adapt to them.
I gradually got used to them, and after about two months, the foreign body sensation significantly decreased, but it still persisted to the point where I felt like I wanted to remove the lenses.
I thought I would give it more time to adapt, but now it has been over six months, and the foreign body sensation is still quite pronounced.
Because of this, I have started to wear them less frequently, but I still want to ask why the foreign body sensation remains so strong after all this time.
Additionally, I had previously experienced a granular condition on the inner side of my upper eyelid due to wearing soft contact lenses, which is why I considered rigid lenses.
Thank you, Doctor.

Yan-ei, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2007/04/03

Dr. Wang Zhangji reply Ophthalmology

If you previously wore soft contact lenses, it may be more difficult to readjust to hard lenses.
Additionally, if you have a history of allergic conjunctivitis or dry eye syndrome, the sensation of foreign body may be even more pronounced.

Reply Date: 2007/04/03

More Info

When it comes to rigid gas permeable (RGP) contact lenses, experiencing discomfort or a sensation of foreign body presence is not uncommon, especially during the initial adaptation period. However, if you have been wearing these lenses for over six months and still feel significant discomfort, it is essential to consider several factors that could be contributing to this issue.

Firstly, the fit of the RGP lenses is crucial. Unlike soft lenses, RGP lenses are more rigid and require precise fitting to ensure they sit correctly on the cornea. If the lenses are too tight or too loose, they can cause discomfort. An improper fit can lead to excessive movement on the eye, which can irritate the cornea and lead to the sensation of something being in your eye. It is advisable to revisit your eye care professional to have the fit of your lenses evaluated. They may need to make adjustments or even suggest a different lens design that better accommodates your eye shape.

Secondly, the material of the lenses plays a significant role in comfort. While RGP lenses are known for their excellent oxygen permeability, the specific material and design can affect how they feel on your eyes. Some individuals may be more sensitive to certain materials, leading to discomfort. Discussing alternative materials or lens designs with your eye care provider could provide a solution.

Another aspect to consider is the tear film stability. RGP lenses can disrupt the natural tear film, leading to dryness and irritation. If your eyes are not producing enough tears or if the quality of your tears is poor, this can exacerbate discomfort. Using preservative-free artificial tears can help alleviate dryness and improve comfort while wearing RGP lenses. Additionally, your eye care professional may recommend a thorough evaluation of your tear production and quality to rule out any underlying issues.

Moreover, your previous experience with soft contact lenses and the development of granular lesions on the inner eyelid may indicate a history of sensitivity or allergic reactions. This could also contribute to your current discomfort with RGP lenses. It is essential to communicate this history to your eye care provider, as they may need to consider this when assessing your current situation.

Lastly, it is worth noting that some individuals may take longer to adapt to RGP lenses than others. While two months is generally considered a sufficient adaptation period, some people may require more time. However, if discomfort persists beyond six months, it is crucial to address the issue rather than simply hoping it will improve with time.

In summary, if you are experiencing persistent discomfort with your RGP lenses, it is essential to consult with your eye care professional. They can evaluate the fit of your lenses, consider alternative materials, assess your tear film stability, and take into account your previous experiences with contact lenses. Finding the right solution is key to ensuring comfort and maintaining your eye health while using contact lenses.

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