Contact Lens Refits: When Dry Eye Means You Need a Lens Switch

Contact lenses have given millions of people the freedom to see clearly without glasses. However, for some, wearing contacts can come with a frustrating side effect: dry eyes. If you’ve started to notice discomfort, irritation, or blurry vision while wearing your lenses, you’re not alone. Dry eye is one of the most common reasons patients seek a contact lens refit and making the switch can make a world of difference in both comfort and clarity.
 

Why Do Contacts Cause Dry Eye?

Contact lenses sit directly on the surface of your eye and can sometimes reduce the amount of oxygen reaching your cornea. Certain lens materials, fit issues, and wearing habits can all play a role in drying out your eyes. Symptoms of contact lens-related dry eye can include:

• Stinging, burning, or scratchy sensation

• Redness

• Blurred or fluctuating vision

• A feeling that something is stuck in your eye

• Increased sensitivity to light

If these symptoms sound familiar, it may be time to discuss your options with our optometrist.
 

When Is a Contact Lens Exam and Fitting Needed?

A contact lens refit involves a careful reassessment of your current lenses, your overall eye health, and your unique vision needs. There are several situations where a refit may become necessary.

First, persistent discomfort is a common reason for a contact lens refit. If your contacts are consistently uncomfortable, even after proper cleaning or trying different solutions, your current lenses may not be the best fit for your eyes. Addressing this discomfort promptly is important for your eye health and daily comfort.

Another sign that a refit may be needed is frequent dryness. If you rely on lubricating drops or other remedies and still experience dry, irritated eyes, it might be time to consider a different lens material or design that better supports moisture retention.

Changes in your prescription can also impact how your lenses fit and feel. Even small adjustments in your vision or the shape of your eyes can affect the comfort and effectiveness of your contact lenses, making a refit necessary to maintain clear, comfortable vision.

Finally, if you have recently been diagnosed with dry eye, or if your symptoms have become worse, it’s crucial to find a contact lens that works with your condition—not against it. In these cases, your eye care provider may recommend a new type of lens specifically designed to address dry eye symptoms.
 

How Do We Address Dry Eye with a New Lens?

Modern contact lenses offer several solutions for dry eye sufferers:

• Silicone Hydrogel Lenses: These lenses allow more oxygen to reach your eyes and tend to hold moisture better.

• Daily Disposable Lenses: Switching to fresh lenses each day reduces the buildup of deposits that can cause irritation.

• Material Upgrades: Some new lens materials are designed specifically to retain moisture and stay comfortable all day long.

Your eye doctor will also consider your lifestyle, daily habits, and eye health before recommending the best option.
 

What to Expect from a Contact Lens Exam

During a refit appointment at My Family Eye Care, we’ll start by evaluating your eyes and current lenses. We may perform a tear film analysis or check for signs of irritation. Next, we’ll discuss your symptoms and recommend new lenses that match your unique needs. You’ll get the chance to try different lenses and see which feels best before making a switch.
 

Ready to Experience More Comfortable Vision?

Dry eye doesn’t mean you have to give up on contact lenses. With the right evaluation and an updated prescription, you can experience comfortable, clear vision once again. If you’re struggling with dry eye symptoms while wearing contacts, a contact lens refit may be the solution you need.

Contact My Family Eye Care to schedule your contact lens exam and discover lenses that work for you. Visit our office in West Siloam Springs, Oklahoma, or call (918) 422-5811 to book an appointment today.