What Type of Contact Lenses Is Safest for Dry Eye Sufferers?

Living with dry eye can be challenging, especially if you rely on contact lenses to correct your vision. Dry eye occurs when your eyes don’t produce enough tears or when the tears evaporate too quickly, leading to irritation, burning, redness, and blurred vision. For many people, these symptoms become even more pronounced when wearing contact lenses, since lenses can disrupt the tear film and make the eyes feel drier.

Challenges of Wearing Contact Lenses With Dry Eye

When you have dry eye, contact lenses can:

• Reduce the oxygen reaching the cornea, worsening irritation.

• Increase friction on the eye’s surface, leading to discomfort.

• Exacerbate symptoms like burning, grittiness, or fluctuating vision.

Fortunately, advancements in contact lens technology now make it possible for dry eye sufferers to wear lenses with much greater comfort.

Daily Disposable Lenses

Daily disposable lenses are often the safest and most comfortable option for people with dry eye. Because they’re replaced each day, protein deposits and allergens don’t have time to build up on the lens surface, which helps reduce irritation. These lenses are also designed with high water content and advanced materials that help keep the eyes hydrated.

Scleral Lenses

Scleral lenses are larger than standard soft lenses and rest on the white part of the eye (the sclera) rather than the cornea. They vault over the cornea, creating a fluid-filled reservoir that keeps the eye consistently moist. For patients with moderate to severe dry eye, scleral lenses can provide both comfort and clear vision.

Silicone Hydrogel Lenses

Silicone hydrogel lenses allow more oxygen to pass through to the cornea compared to traditional hydrogel lenses. This makes them more breathable and reduces the risk of further irritation. For mild to moderate dry eye sufferers, these lenses can be an excellent choice.

Specialty Lenses With Moisture Technology

Some lenses are specifically designed with moisture-retaining technology, such as built-in wetting agents or water gradient designs. These features help lock in hydration and maintain comfort throughout the day.

Finding the Right Solution for You

While these lens types can significantly improve comfort, it’s important to remember that every patient’s eyes are different. A comprehensive eye exam allows your optometrist to determine the severity of your dry eye and recommend the lens type that will work best for your vision needs and lifestyle.

Take the Next Step at Miramar Eye Center

Dry eye doesn’t mean you have to give up contact lenses altogether. With modern lens technology, there are safe and effective options that can help you enjoy clear, comfortable vision. The key is working closely with your eye doctor to find the right solution tailored to your needs.

Schedule a comprehensive eye exam with Miramar Eye Center to discuss your dry eye symptoms and explore the best contact lens options for you. Visit our office in Miramar, Florida, call (954) 431-2020, or text (954) 399-3240 today.