Contact lenses are a convenient way to see clearly. However, while the initial adjustment period to new contact lenses is usually fairly smooth, it’s possible that you could have a reaction to the lenses themselves, the solution, or something else entirely.
While allergies to the material that makes up contact lenses is uncommon, more people have reactions to substances that accumulate on their lenses. If you’re having issues, we recommend checking in with your optometrist.
What Causes a Reaction to Contacts?
The materials used to make contact lenses are generally designed to be compatible with your eyes. Consequently, most allergic issues are due to the build-up of substances on the surface of the lenses.
The Role of Proteins & Contaminants
Your tears contain natural proteins that can stick to your contact lenses. If these deposits aren’t cleaned off properly, your body may start to see them as foreign substances. This can trigger an immune response that leads to redness, itching, and discomfort.
The Role of Cleaning Solution
Sometimes, the problem isn’t the lens itself, but the solution used to clean and store the lens. Some multipurpose solutions contain preservatives that can cause sensitivity in some people. Over time, your eyes might become irritated by trace amounts of these chemicals left on your lenses.
Signs of a Contact Lens Allergy
It can be hard to tell if you have dry eyes, seasonal allergies, or a true sensitivity to your contacts. However, knowing what to look for makes it easier to find a solution.
Common symptoms of a contact lens-related allergy include:
- Redness in your eyes
- Itching or a burning feeling
- Watery eyes
- Minor swelling of the eyelids
- General discomfort when wearing lenses
- A feeling that there’s something on your lens
More Serious Signs
Some symptoms may point to a different eye condition that needs immediate attention. If you experience any of the following, remove your lenses and speak with an eye care professional for guidance.
- Pus or discharge from the eye
- Severe or persistent pain
- Blurred vision that doesn’t clear
- Noticeable swelling
Contact Lens Intolerance vs. Allergies
An allergy is an immune response, while intolerance is when your eyes can no longer comfortably wear contacts. The two situations are ultimately different, and recognizing which applies to you can help point you in the right direction.
What Contact Lens Intolerance Feels Like
Contact lens intolerance often involves consistent pain or irritation every time you wear your lenses. Instead of itchiness, you might feel a sharper discomfort that makes it difficult to keep the lenses in your eyes. This feeling tends to be more immediate and persistent.
Several factors can contribute to intolerance, including chronic dry eye or lenses that do not fit properly. Other underlying eye conditions can also play a part in why your eyes reject lenses. Your eye doctor can evaluate your eyes to determine the specific cause.
Other Reasons for Eye Irritation
Since a true allergy to the lens material is rare, your discomfort is more likely to come from other sources. Many conditions have similar symptoms, so it’s important to consider all of the possibilities. Your environment often plays a bigger role than you might think.
Seasonal Allergies & Your Lenses
If you have seasonal allergies, airborne allergens like pollen and dust can accumulate on the surface of your contact lenses. This can trap irritants against your eye, making your allergy symptoms feel much more intense.
Giant Papillary Conjunctivitis (GPC)
Giant Papillary Conjunctivitis (GPC) is an inflammatory condition where small bumps, called papillae, form on the inner surface of your eyelid. It’s often caused by the buildup of deposits on contact lenses. This creates friction and irritation every time you blink.
Find Relief & Explore Your Options
If you start to feel discomfort, your first step should always be to remove your lenses. From there, you can take a few simple steps to figure out what’s wrong and find relief. Finding a solution often starts with small changes to your routine.
Review Your Lens Care Routine
Take out your lenses and wear your glasses for a day or two to see if your symptoms disappear. Good habits can also make a huge difference in comfort, so be sure to follow these simple rules for lens care.
- Always wash your hands before you touch your eyes or contacts.
- Rub and rinse your lenses with fresh solution every day.
- Use new solution in your case each night—never top off old solution.
- Replace your contact lens case at least every three months.
Consider Different Lenses & Solutions
If you continue to experience irritation, don’t get discouraged. Your eye doctor can help you explore other options that may be more comfortable for your eyes.
For instance, daily disposable lenses are worn once and then thrown away, which reduces the chance for protein and allergen buildup. Your eye doctor might also suggest a hydrogen peroxide-based system or a preservative-free solution. Switching to a different lens material, like a silicone hydrogel lens, might also provide more comfort for your eyes.
Get a Professional Contact Lens Exam & Fitting
You don’t have to live with contact lens discomfort. By identifying the cause of your irritation, you can find a path to clear and comfortable vision.
At Total Vision Tierrasanta, we can help you navigate your options and find a solution that works for you and your lifestyle. Schedule a visit with our team today.
