Dry eyes can be an ongoing and frustrating issue to contend with. Contact lenses, in particular, can exacerbate this problem, as they can impede oxygen transmission and disrupt tear flow. However, there are contact lens options available that can help alleviate discomfort for individuals with dry eyes. In this blog, we will delve into the types of contact lenses that are best suited for those experiencing dryness, offering greater comfort and relief.
Daily Disposables: Reducing Thickness and Build-Up
One popular option to minimize the impact of dry eyes is the use of daily disposable contact lenses. Compared to lenses that are worn for longer durations, daily disposables offer several advantages. They are thinner and lighter, allowing for increased oxygen transmission to the cornea. This enhanced oxygen flow helps alleviate dryness.
Moreover, daily disposable lenses are discarded after each use, reducing the accumulation of deposits and protein build-up on the lens surface. This minimizes the risk of irritation and discomfort caused by debris that can exacerbate dryness.
Water-Based Materials and Coatings: Enhancing Comfort
Contacts with water-based materials and special coatings can significantly improve comfort for individuals struggling with dry eyes. These lenses are specifically designed to retain moisture and provide a more lubricating and soothing experience.
Water-based materials allow for better incorporation of water into the lens matrix, promoting greater hydration for the eyes. Coatings on the lens surface can further enhance the retention of moisture, reducing the friction between the lens and the eye, thus minimizing dryness and irritation.
Opting for contact lenses with these features can provide much-needed relief and improve overall comfort for those with dry eyes.
Scleral Hard Contact Lenses: A Last Resort for Severe Cases
In severe cases of dry eyes, where traditional contact lenses fail to alleviate symptoms, scleral hard contact lenses may be recommended. These lenses have a larger diameter and vault over the cornea, sitting on the white part of the eye called the sclera. This design allows tears to gather and circulate beneath the lens, acting as a reservoir of lubrication.
By sitting above the tear film, scleral lenses can provide much-needed relief for individuals with severe dryness. They help maintain a healthy environment for the cornea, reducing dryness and discomfort even compared to not wearing a contact lens at all.
However, it is essential to note that fitting and wearing scleral lenses requires specialized expertise and professional guidance from an eye care practitioner experienced in fitting these lenses.
Seeking Professional Guidance
When it comes to finding the best contact lenses for dry eyes, it is crucial to consult with an eye care professional. An optometrist or ophthalmologist can assess the severity of the dry eye condition and recommend suitable contact lens options that cater to individual needs.
These professionals will take into account various factors such as tear quality, tear production, corneal health, and lifestyle before making the appropriate recommendations. They can guide individuals on proper lens usage, care, and hygiene practices to maximize comfort and alleviate dryness.
Comfort for Dry Eyes
Managing dry eyes while wearing contact lenses can be challenging, but it is not an insurmountable obstacle. With the right choice of contact lenses and guidance from eye care professionals, individuals can experience enhanced comfort and relief.
Consider daily disposable contact lenses to minimize thickness and deposit build-up. Water-based materials and coatings can improve moisture retention and overall comfort. In severe cases, scleral hard contact lenses offer a unique solution by sitting above the tear film and promoting proper tear flow.