Most people say that dry eyes and contact lenses do not mix very well. But the American Optometric Association states that it is possible for them to coexist. You can achieve healthy and comfortable vision if you know how to make dry eyes and contact lens work together. Here are the details. 

Change the Solution in Your Lens Case Every Day

You should not top off the contact lens solution in your contact lens case. Reusing your cleaning solution may be a thrifty practice, but it can result in eye infection and discomfort. Pour out the used liquid and replace it with a fresh amount each day. Clean your lens case first and then rinse it with a fresh cleaning solution. Opening the case and inverting it on a clean cloth or paper towel to dry is necessary. Reusing the cleaning liquid will reduce its disinfecting power. 

Always Wash Your Hands Before Handling Your Contacts

A busy lifestyle may be a reason to forget proper handwashing before handling your contacts. But if you have dry eyes, you must never forget this practice. Your hands contain many contaminants that can worsen your dry eyes. Washing them well before handling your contacts can prevent these contaminants from reaching your eyes. Use mild soap and clean water in washing your hands and dry them with a lint-free towel. 

Change Your Lenses on Time

You should always follow your doctor’s schedule for your contact lenses. Your custom contact lenses come in a box with specific care and wear instructions. Make sure you dispose of your used contacts after a specific period. This will prevent infections and complications. 

Letting your contact lenses stay on your eyes longer than they have to will prevent your tears from spreading across your eyeballs. Changing your contact lenses according to their schedule will keep your eyes moist and infection-free. This will help prevent your dry eye syndrome from worsening.  

Do Not Sleep With Your Contacts On

This habit will increase your risk of eye infections alongside your dry eye syndrome. Sleeping with your contacts will deprive your eyes of oxygen and good tear film. This will make your eyes a good environment for bacteria or viruses. It may also lead to corneal ulcers or sores on the surfaces of your eyes. 

Always Use Rewetting Drops

Applying artificial tears is a good way to keep your eyes moist while wearing contact lenses. Use these tears even if your eyes feel okay because it prevents dryness. This keeps you from experiencing dry eye symptoms. It allows you to have a comfortable contact lens experience despite your eye condition. 

Remove Your Contacts for a Few Hours Every Day

Letting your eyes breathe is possible by becoming free of your contact lenses for a few hours a day. Doing this every day will allow your eyes to get the nourishment and oxygen they need from your tear film. You can do this overnight while you sleep. Napping without your contacts can also help your eyes take a break. 

Comfortable contact lens wearing is important in maximizing their use even if you have dry eye syndrome. At Federal Hill Eye Care, we always help our patients achieve good eye and vision health. You can visit our clinic in Baltimore, Maryland, for an in-person consultation. Please call 410-752-8208 to set an appointment or ask about our contact lens and dry eye treatment packages.