Photo: dragonstock
One is often plagued with discomfort or soreness while performing the most basic tasks, like reading, using screens, or simply being outdoors, due to dry eyes. If the prescription glasses currently being used are not helpful – or worse yet, causing increased discomfort – it may be worth exploring other options. For those considering vision corrections that would not aggravate dryness, custom-designed contact lenses in Melbourne may be the most comfortable and suitable solution.
Why Are Dry Eyes So Common Today?
Most people develop dry-eye-related symptoms, oblivious to their cause. Increased exposure to screens, environmental factors, air-conditioning, and sometimes age are all factors that interfere with tear production. The end result? At the end of the day, your eyes feel irritated, gritty, or red.
The most common dry-eye symptoms:
- Burning or stinging sensation;
- Blurred vision, with temporary improvement by blinking;
- Redness, or sensitivity to light;
- Something feels stuck in your eye;
- Difficulty wearing ordinary contact lenses.
If neglected, these annoying symptoms can lead to more than mere disturbances; they could adversely affect the health of your eyes, along with the quality of your life.
The Problem with Standard Contact Lenses
Traditional lenses are not ideal for people with dry eyes. They can be less than perfect because certain lens materials absorb too much moisture from within the eye or clog up with air and worsen the symptoms over time. Opting for the wrong type of lenses can make your eyes drier and, ultimately, less able to tolerate being worn all day.
What to Look for in a Dry Eye-Friendly Lens
If you're trying to make the transition, make sure to choose lenses that enhance hydration and comfort.
Features to consider:
- High moisture content: Helps prevent drying throughout the day
- Silicone hydrogel materials: Allow more oxygen to reach the cornea
- Daily disposables: Reduce the risk of deposits and irritation
- Smooth surface design: Minimizes friction on the eye surface
- UV protection: Shields sensitive eyes from sun-related strain
An eye care professional will inspect your tear film and recommend the lens type that matches the shape of your eyes and lifestyle.
Beyond Lenses: Other Ways to Manage Dry Eyes
While changing to a more suitable contact lens can produce a great difference, it is also good to support your eyes in other ways.
Other supporting tips:
- Stay hydrated: Water is a good friend any time of the day.
- Use a humidifier when working in an air-conditioned or heated environment.
- Don't allow fans to blow directly at your face; they make your eyes dry fast.
Store preservative-free lubricating drops in your pocket and use them when your eyes need a little moisture.
A holistic approach to combating dry eyes plays an essential role in maintaining eye health and comfort.
Photo: Africa Studio
Ready to Try a Better Option?
If you are tired of the never-ceasing irritation and discomfort, well, don't settle. Switching to lenses meant for dryness could be just the relief you've been wanting. Discuss with your optometrist some custom solutions designed for your eyes and lifestyle, and finally, see without discomfort.
How to Take Care of Your Custom Contacts?
Follow these instructions meticulously every day to prevent irritation, infection, and potential damage to your eyes.
- Wash Your Hands Thoroughly: Always start by washing your hands with mild, non-cosmetic soap and water. Dry them completely with a lint-free towel to prevent transferring germs or fibers to your lenses.
- Inspect Your Lenses: Before insertion or after removal, quickly inspect each lens for any tears, nicks, or debris. Never insert a damaged lens.
- Insertion:
Start Fresh: Always use fresh, unexpired contact lens solution to rinse your lenses before insertion. Never use tap water, saliva, or any other liquid.
Identify Right & Left (If Applicable): If your lenses are prescribed for specific eyes, make sure you're inserting the correct lens into the correct eye.
Proper Placement: Place the lens on the tip of your clean, dry index finger, ensuring it's not inside out (it should look like a perfect bowl, not a plate with flared edges).
Insert Gently: Using your other hand, pull down your lower eyelid. Gaze up and carefully set the lens onto your eye. Then, blink a couple of times to properly seat it.
- Removal:
Wash Hands (Again!): Repeat the hand-washing and drying process before touching your eyes or lenses.
Open Case: Prepare your clean, dry contact lens case, ensuring each well is empty and ready for fresh solution.
Pinch Method: Look up, then gently pinch the bottom of the lens with your thumb and index finger to slightly fold and lift it off your eye.
Slide Method: Look up, and with your index finger, gently slide the lens down to the white part of your eye, then pinch it off.
Place in Case: Immediately place the removed lens into its designated well in the contact lens case.
- Cleaning & Storage:
Discard Old Solution: Empty all the old solution from your contact lens case immediately after removing your lenses. Never "top off" an old solution.
Rinse Lenses (for storage): Place each lens in the palm of your hand, add a few drops of fresh multi-purpose or hydrogen peroxide solution, and gently rub the lens with your clean finger for 10-20 seconds (or as directed by your solution). Rinse thoroughly with more fresh solution.
Fill Case with Fresh Solution: Fill each well of your clean contact lens case with fresh, unexpired contact lens solution.
Soak Overnight: Place the cleaned lenses into the filled case, ensuring they are fully submerged. Close the case tightly and allow them to soak for the recommended time (usually at least 4-6 hours or overnight), as specified by your solution.
Let's Wrap Up...
Don't let the discomfort of dry eyes dictate your daily life or limit your vision correction options. While traditional lenses can exacerbate the problem, custom contact lenses offer a tailored solution designed to prioritize both clarity and comfort. Take the first step towards a more comfortable wearing experience. Consult with your eye care professional today to explore if custom contacts are the answer you've been searching for, and reclaim the joy of clear, comfortable vision.
