Contact lenses are a great alternative to glasses, as contacts provide a more natural field of vision and the freedom to move without frames getting in your way. However, contacts can sometimes be uncomfortable, especially for new wearers.
If you’re dealing with irritation or struggling to find the perfect fit, don’t worry—you’re not alone. You can make your lenses more comfortable by taking care of them properly, by talking to your optometrist to ensure a proper fit, by not wearing them for too long at once, and by replacing them as needed.
Getting Used to Contacts: How Long Does it Take to Acclimatize?
Adjusting to contact lenses can take from a few days to a few weeks. The exact timeline depends on the type of lenses, your eye sensitivity, and how consistently you wear them. Soft contact lenses, for example, tend to be easier to adapt to than rigid gas permeable (RGP) lenses due to their flexibility. However, even soft lenses may feel unusual if you’re new to them.
Why Are My Contacts No Longer Comfortable?
For those who’ve worn contact lenses for a while, sudden discomfort can be concerning. Several factors can contribute to this, including:
- Dry eyes: Lack of natural tear production can make lenses feel irritating.
- Improper lens care: Dirty or torn lenses can cause discomfort and even lead to infection.
- Outdated prescription or poor fit: If your lenses no longer align with your eye’s shape or prescription, they may feel uncomfortable.
- Overwearing lenses: Extended use can strain your eyes even with lenses intended for extended wear.
Tips for Getting Used to Contacts
If you’re new to contacts, follow these tips to make the transition smoother:
- Start Slow: Wear your lenses for a few hours, gradually increasing the duration.
- Follow Hygiene Practices: Always wash your hands before handling lenses. Proper hygiene reduces irritation and infection risks.
- Use Eye Drops: Lubricating eye drops can keep your eyes moist and reduce irritation, especially in dry or windy environments.
How to Keep Contact Lenses Comfortable
Fortunately, there are easy ways to make your contacts more comfortable. Proper care and minor adjustments are often the key to maintaining comfort.
Clean Your Contact Lenses
Cleaning your contacts is essential. Use the cleaning solution recommended by your optometrist, and never rinse your lenses with water, as water can contain harmful microorganisms. Also, avoid reusing the cleaning solution, as it loses effectiveness after a single use.
Don’t Wear Your Contacts Inside Out
Wearing a lens inside out is a surprisingly common mistake that can cause significant discomfort to your eyes. Before putting a contact lens in, check that the lens forms a perfect bowl shape. If the edges flare outward away from your eye, it’s inside out.
Don’t Sleep With Contact Lenses In
Sleeping with your contact lenses in can reduce the oxygen your eyes receive and increase the risk of infection. Even lenses labeled for overnight wear have potential risks, so it’s best to remove them before bed.
Replace Contact Lenses as Needed (or Get a Better Fit)
Old or damaged lenses can irritate your eyes and compromise vision quality. Always stick to the recommended replacement schedule for the type of lenses that you’re wearing, whether that’s daily, bi-weekly, or monthly.
If you experience persistent discomfort despite proper lens upkeep, consult an optometrist. They may suggest lenses that better fit the shape of your eye.
Try a Different Type of Contact Lens
Not all lenses work for everyone. Switching to a different type of lean might be a good solution if dryness or irritation persists. Popular options include toric lenses for astigmatism, multifocal lenses, or silicone hydrogel lenses, which are known for their superior breathability.
How Supporting Your Eye Health Makes Wearing Contacts Easier
Your contact lens experience isn’t just about the lenses themselves—how you care for your eyes plays a key role in overall comfort.
Stay Hydrated
Dehydration can exacerbate dry eyes, a common source of lens-related discomfort. Aim to drink at least eight glasses of water daily to support tear production and maintain optimal eye hydration.
Eat Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega-3 fatty acids, found in foods like salmon, walnuts, and flaxseeds, have been shown to relieve dry eye symptoms by promoting healthier tear production. Supplementing your diet with omega-3s can also make wearing lenses more comfortable.
Take Screen Breaks
Staring at screens for long periods can cause digital eye strain, which worsens the feeling of dry, tired eyes. Follow the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds. This will give your eyes—and your lenses—a much-needed refresh.
Say Goodbye to Lens Discomfort
Contact lenses don’t have to be uncomfortable. By using proper care techniques, exploring different lens options, and maintaining your eye health, you can maximize the convenience of your lenses.
However, if discomfort persists, Griffin Optometric Group – Talega is your local resource for personalized recommendations . Contact us today for help and advice or to schedule your next contact lens exam and fitting.
