Feeling Contacts? What's Normal & When To Worry

Hey there, contact lens wearers! Ever popped in your lenses and felt like something's just not quite right? Maybe you're wondering, "Is it normal to feel my contact lenses?" Well, you're not alone! It's a super common question, and we're here to break it all down for you. Let's dive into the world of contacts and figure out what's normal, what's not, and how to keep your eyes happy and healthy.

Why You Might Feel Your Contact Lenses

So, you've got your contacts in, but they don't feel quite as invisible as you'd hoped. There are actually several reasons why you might be feeling them. Understanding these reasons is the first step to finding a solution and getting back to comfortable, clear vision.

The Initial Adjustment Period

If you're new to the contact lens game, or you've just switched to a different type of lens, there's usually an adjustment period. Your eyes need time to get used to having a foreign object chillin' on their surface. It's like breaking in a new pair of shoes – they might feel a little stiff at first, but they'll eventually mold to your feet (or, in this case, your eyes!). During this initial phase, it's pretty normal to feel your lenses a bit. This sensation usually fades within a week or two as your eyes adapt. Think of it as your eyes saying, "Hey, what's this? Oh, okay, I guess we're doing this now."

Dry Eyes

Dry eyes are a super common culprit when it comes to contact lens discomfort. When your eyes aren't producing enough tears, or the tears you're producing aren't high quality, your lenses can start to feel dry and scratchy. This can lead to a heightened awareness of your lenses. Imagine trying to swim in a pool that's only ankle-deep – not the most comfortable experience, right? Similarly, dry eyes don't provide enough lubrication for your lenses to glide smoothly over your cornea. Factors like staring at screens for long periods, dry environments (like airplanes or air-conditioned rooms), and certain medications can all contribute to dry eyes. So, if you're feeling your lenses and your eyes feel gritty or tired, dry eye might be the culprit.

Improper Fit

This is a big one, guys. If your contact lenses don't fit properly, you're definitely going to feel them. Lenses come in different sizes and curves to match the unique shape of your eye. If your lenses are too tight, they can feel like they're squeezing your eye. Too loose, and they might slide around and cause irritation. An improper fit can also lead to more serious problems, like corneal abrasions or infections. This is why it's super important to get a proper fitting from your eye doctor. They'll measure your eyes and recommend the right size and type of lens for you. Think of it like buying shoes – you wouldn't wear a size too small or too big, would you? Same goes for your contacts!

Debris and Irritants

Sometimes, that feeling of discomfort isn't the lens itself, but something trapped underneath it. Dust, dirt, makeup, or even a rogue eyelash can sneak in between your lens and your eye, causing irritation and making you feel like something's definitely not right. It's like having a pebble in your shoe – annoying and distracting! This is why it's so crucial to wash your hands thoroughly before handling your lenses and to follow a proper cleaning and care routine. We'll dive into that a bit later.

Lens Material and Condition

The material your lenses are made of can also play a role in how they feel. Some materials are more breathable and retain moisture better than others. If you're using an older type of lens or a material that doesn't suit your eyes, you might experience discomfort. Also, the condition of your lens matters. Scratched or damaged lenses can irritate your eyes and should be replaced immediately. Think of it like wearing a worn-out sweater – it's not going to feel as comfy as a fresh, new one.

When to Worry About Contact Lens Discomfort

Okay, so we've covered why you might feel your lenses. But when should you be concerned? It's important to know the difference between normal adjustment discomfort and signs of a potential problem. While a slight awareness of your lenses, especially when you first put them in, can be normal, certain symptoms warrant a call to your eye doctor. Here are some red flags to watch out for:

• Persistent discomfort: If the feeling of your lenses is constant and doesn't improve after the initial adjustment period, something's up. Don't just tough it out – get it checked!
• Pain: Contacts should not be painful. If you're experiencing pain in your eye while wearing your lenses, take them out immediately and call your doctor.
• Redness: Redness can be a sign of irritation, infection, or inflammation. It's your eye's way of waving a flag and saying, "Hey, something's wrong here!"
• Blurry vision: If your vision is blurry even after blinking or adjusting your lenses, it could indicate a problem with the fit, a buildup of deposits on the lens, or something more serious.
• Excessive tearing: While dry eyes can cause discomfort, so can excessive tearing. It can be a sign that your eye is trying to flush out an irritant or that there's an underlying issue.
• Sensitivity to light: Increased sensitivity to light, also known as photophobia, can be a symptom of infection or inflammation.
• Discharge: Any discharge from your eye is a major red flag and needs immediate attention.

If you experience any of these symptoms, remove your lenses and contact your eye doctor right away. It's always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to your eye health.

Tips for Comfortable Contact Lens Wear

Now for the good stuff! Let's talk about how to keep your eyes happy and your contact lens experience comfortable. Here are some tried-and-true tips for contact lens bliss:

Proper Hygiene is Key

This is non-negotiable, guys. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before touching your lenses. Dry your hands with a lint-free towel. Think of your hands as potential carriers of germs and grime – you don't want to transfer that to your eyes! Also, clean your lens case regularly and replace it every three months to avoid bacterial buildup.

Follow Your Eye Doctor's Instructions

Your eye doctor is your contact lens guru. They've assessed your eyes and prescribed lenses specifically for you. Follow their instructions for wear time, cleaning, and replacement schedule. Don't try to stretch the life of your lenses beyond what's recommended – it's not worth the risk of infection or discomfort.

Use the Right Solutions

Use only the contact lens solutions recommended by your eye doctor. Don't use tap water or saliva to rinse your lenses – they contain microorganisms that can cause serious infections. Multipurpose solutions are great for cleaning, rinsing, and storing your lenses. If you have sensitive eyes, your doctor might recommend a preservative-free solution.

Clean Your Lenses Regularly

Clean your lenses every time you remove them. Rub and rinse them with solution to remove debris and protein deposits. Even if you use a "no-rub" solution, rubbing your lenses is still the best way to ensure they're clean. Think of it like brushing your teeth – you wouldn't just swish with mouthwash and call it a day, would you?

Re-wetting Drops are Your Friend

If you experience dry eyes, re-wetting drops can be a lifesaver. They help to lubricate your eyes and keep your lenses comfortable throughout the day. Look for preservative-free drops if you use them frequently.

Give Your Eyes a Break

Wearing contact lenses all day, every day can take a toll on your eyes. Give them a break by wearing your glasses for a few hours each day, especially in the evenings. This allows your eyes to breathe and rehydrate. It's like giving your feet a break from wearing shoes – they'll thank you for it!

Schedule Regular Eye Exams

Regular eye exams are crucial for maintaining your eye health and ensuring your contact lenses still fit properly. Your eye doctor can also check for any signs of infection or other problems. Aim for an eye exam at least once a year, or more often if recommended by your doctor.

The Bottom Line

So, is it normal to feel your contact lenses? Sometimes. A slight awareness, especially when you first put them in, is usually nothing to worry about. But persistent discomfort, pain, redness, or blurry vision are red flags that need to be addressed by your eye doctor. By following proper hygiene practices, using the right solutions, and giving your eyes the TLC they deserve, you can enjoy comfortable and clear vision with your contact lenses. Remember, your eyes are precious – take good care of them!

Do you have any other questions about contact lenses? Drop them in the comments below!