Do contact lenses and dry eyes really get along?

Do you have contact lenses and dry eyes? Or do you just have dry eyes and don't wear contact lenses because of them. Thanks to modern designs and materials, contact lenses and dry eyes can go hand in hand.

Each eye is unique and the term "dry eye" is vague at best. There are many styles of lenses designed specifically to improve comfort of patients with dry eyes. It is important to note that there is not one miracle answer to having contact lenses and dry eyes.

Below are a few generalities we use when fitting a dry eye patient.

A contact lens with less water content will draw fewer tears from your eye. This usually creates a better lens to dry eye relationship.

There are some lenses, such as the copper vision proclear compatibles and the Xtreme H20 that are higher water content, yet the plastic was designed to maintain its moisture. This potentially keeps a dry eye more comfortable throughout the day.

For many dry eyes, gas permeable contact lenses are a better option. The nature of a gas permeable lens is to maintain its same state. In short, it does not draw tears from the eye. When fit properly, GP lenses can be a great option for dry eyes.

In many cases, simply changing the solution and care system makes a huge difference. Some solutions are designed for end of day comfort with contact lenses. These solutions coat the lenses and keep it comfortable on dry eyes longer.

Rewetting drops can also be extremely helpful. Like solutions, there are some that work well for dry eyes and some that don't.

If you have dry eyes and would like contact lenses, don't give up. Visit your contact lens specialist and chances are they will come up with a solution to your contact lens worries.