Contact lenses are a convenient way to achieve clear vision for people with refractive errors, While spectacles also provide clear vision, they can affect one's overall appearance, whereas contact lenses do not. Although contact lenses can offer you the convenience you have to use them with special care, most contact lens wearers going to experience eye redness. The red eye can be a result of certain factors including improper lens hygiene, dry eyes, allergies, or over-wearing lenses. It is a minor issue but the condition keeps persisting or severe eye redness that may lead to discomfort and even infection if left untreated. Understanding contact lens-induced redness and taking preventive measures is essential. This blog provides basic knowledge on the topic.
Common causes of eye redness from contact lenses
Below are some of the common causes of redness by using contact lenses through reading them you can get to know the factors that are contributing,
- Contact lenses can reduce the amount of oxygen that reaches your eyes, leading to dryness. When the eyes become dry, they may feel irritated and appear red.
- Wearing contact lenses for extended periods, especially beyond the recommended time, can cause strain on the eyes and lead to redness and irritation.
- Failing to clean and store your contact lenses properly can lead to a buildup of debris, bacteria, and other harmful microorganisms, which can irritate the eyes and cause redness.
- People who suffer from seasonal allergies may find that wearing contact lenses can trap allergens like pollen or dust, further irritating the eyes and making them red and itchy.
- If your contact lenses are not fitted correctly or the prescription is wrong, it can cause friction on the eye's surface, leading to redness and discomfort.
- Some people may be sensitive to certain contact lens cleaning solutions, which can lead to redness, stinging, and irritation after inserting lenses.
Effective ways to relieve eye redness
Here are some practical ways to relieve eye redness caused by contact lenses and improve overall eye comfort.
- One of the most effective and immediate ways to relieve eye redness and dryness caused by contact lenses is to use lubricating or rewetting drops. These drops are designed to mimic natural tears and can provide quick relief from irritation. They also help keep your lenses hydrated throughout the day.
- Wearing contact lenses for too long is a common cause of eye redness. Make sure to follow your eye doctor’s recommended wearing schedule, which typically suggests removing lenses after 8-10 hours and avoiding sleeping in them unless you have been prescribed extended-wear lenses. Taking breaks from wearing contact lenses and giving your eyes a rest, especially after long hours of wear, can help reduce redness and prevent irritation.
- Maintaining proper contact lens hygiene is essential for preventing eye irritation and infections that can cause redness. This includes cleaning and rinsing lenses, replacing lenses as recommended, and cleaning the lens case.
- Daily disposable lenses can be a better option for people who frequently experience eye redness with reusable lenses. Since these lenses are discarded after each use, there’s no need to worry about cleaning or potential contamination from improper storage. This can reduce the risk of irritation and infection, leading to clearer, more comfortable eyes.
- If you continue to experience redness despite taking preventive measures, it may be time to consult with your eye doctor. They can check to ensure your lenses fit properly and are not irritating. If your eyes are sensitive to certain lens solutions, your doctor can recommend a more suitable product that won’t cause discomfort.
Consult an ophthalmologist
While eye redness from contact lenses is common, it is typically manageable with the right care and habits.Using contact lenses is easy, but following the right routine is essential to prevent issues like redness, irritation, and infections. Visit The Eye Foundation ophthalmologist can guide you and also give you tips on wearing contact lenses to ensure your comfort. Book your appointment today!
