According to the Dry Eye Directory, 5 to 10% of people in America suffer from dry eyes. That’s up to 50 million Americans, and you might be one of them. In this blog post, we’ll take a look at what causes dry eyes, how to know if you have them, and the best contacts for dry eyes.
What Causes Dry Eyes?
Dry eye is a corneal condition that can cause bothersome irritation and discomfort. There are several factors that can contribute to dry eyes:
- Age
- Medical conditions such as Sjogrens Syndrome
- Use of certain medications
- Environmental pollutants
- Hormonal changes
In addition to affecting ocular comfort, chronic dryness can affect the health of your eyes as well. This is one of the main reasons it is so important to seek professional help if you are suffering with dry eyes, rather than trying to tough it out and deal with your symptoms.
How to Know if You Have Dry Eye
This might seem obvious, but dry eyes can feel different to different people. If your eyes feel itchy, scratchy, like they’re burning, or if you feel like you have a foreign object in your eye, there’s a good chance you’re experiencing dry eye. Blurred vision or sensitivity to light may also indicate the condition.
Additionally, your eyes might be red and watery, which might seem counterintuitive. Dry, irritated eyes can initiate the tearing reflex, which is your body’s way of attempting to moisten them. However, in the case of dry eyes, your eyes will feel irritated soon after even excessive tearing.
Not surprisingly, dry eye symptoms may get worse in dry, windy weather, especially when temperatures are high and humidity is low. They may also worsen with prolonged computer use, while driving, watching television, or reading.
Learn more about how screens can affect vision.
Contact Lenses for Dry Eyes
If you are experiencing dry eyes and considering contact lenses, it’s important to consult with an eye care professional near you to determine the best option for your specific needs. They can assess your eye health, consider any underlying conditions, and provide recommendations tailored to you. However, here are a few general suggestions for contact lenses that are often recommended for individuals with dry eyes.
Silicone Hydrogel Lenses
These advanced lenses are known for their high oxygen permeability, which allow up to five times more oxygen to pass through the contact lens to the cornea. This helps maintain eye health and reduce dryness. They are even more hydrating than regular hydrogel lenses.
Daily Disposable Lenses
Daily disposable lenses eliminate the need for cleaning and disinfecting your contact lenses each day, since you throw them away after one use. Using new lenses every day reduces the chance of debris buildup, which can contribute to dryness and discomfort.
Specially Designed Lenses for Dry Eyes
Some contact lens manufacturers offer lenses specifically designed for individuals with dry eyes. These lenses often have enhanced moisture-retaining properties and improved surface lubrication to help combat dryness and the discomfort it brings.
Remember, it’s crucial to consult with an eye care professional who can evaluate your eye health and prescribe the most suitable lenses based on your individual needs and preferences. Every individual is different, and there is no one size fits all solution when it comes to contacts for dry eyes. Your eye doctor can also provide guidance on proper lens care and usage to ensure optimal eye comfort and health.
Eye Care in Austin, Texas
At Broberg Eye Care, we offer a full range of dry eye treatment depending on the severity of your eye condition. We also offer comprehensive eye care services, from annual eye exams to LASIK. Contact us today to learn more.