Dry Eyes from Contact Lenses: When to See an Optometrist

Contact lenses offer convenience, clear vision, and freedom from glasses—but for many people, they can also cause discomfort. One of the most common complaints among contact lens wearers is dry eyes from contact lenses. While occasional dryness can be normal, persistent symptoms may signal an underlying issue that requires professional attention.

Understanding why contact lenses cause dry eyes, what symptoms to watch for, and when to see an optometrist can help protect your eye health and keep contact lens wear comfortable.

In this guide, we’ll explore the causes of contact lens–related dry eye, how it affects your eyes, and how professional eye care can help relieve symptoms and prevent long-term problems.

Why Do Contact Lenses Cause Dry Eyes?

Contact lenses sit directly on the surface of the eye, interacting with the tear film that keeps your eyes moist and comfortable. When this delicate balance is disrupted, contact lens dry eye can develop.

Common reasons contact lenses cause dryness include:

Reduced oxygen flow to the eye

Disruption of the natural tear film

Increased tear evaporation

Prolonged screen time

Environmental factors such as air conditioning or heating

Some people are more prone to dryness than others, especially those who spend long hours on digital devices or wear contact lenses for extended periods.

Common Symptoms of Dry Eyes from Contact Lenses

Dry eye symptoms can range from mild irritation to persistent discomfort. Many contact lens wearers experience:

Dryness or gritty sensation

Redness or irritation

Burning or stinging

Blurry or fluctuating vision

Increased sensitivity to light

Difficulty wearing contacts for long periods

If these symptoms continue despite using artificial tears or reducing lens wear time, it may be time to schedule a professional eye exam for contact lenses.

How Contact Lenses Affect the Tear Film

A healthy tear film consists of three layers: oil, water, and mucus. Contact lenses can interfere with this balance by:

Absorbing moisture from the eyes

Preventing tears from spreading evenly

Increasing evaporation during blinking

Over time, this can lead to chronic dry eye symptoms in contact lens wearers, making lenses uncomfortable or intolerable.

Risk Factors for Contact Lens–Related Dry Eye

Certain factors increase the likelihood of experiencing dryness while wearing contact lenses:

Long hours of screen use

Wearing lenses longer than recommended

Sleeping in contact lenses

Low humidity environments

Hormonal changes

Inadequate lens hygiene

A comprehensive contact lens exam can help identify which factors are contributing to your symptoms.

When Should You See an Optometrist for Dry Eyes?

Occasional dryness can be normal, but you should see an optometrist if:

Dryness persists even without contact lenses

You experience pain, redness, or blurred vision

Contacts become uncomfortable after short wear time

Artificial tears no longer help

You’ve reduced lens wear but symptoms continue

An optometrist can determine whether your symptoms are related to contact lens irritation, underlying dry eye disease, or another eye condition.

How an Optometrist Can Help with Contact Lens Dry Eye

During an eye exam, your optometrist may:

Evaluate tear quality and quantity

Examine the surface of the eye

Assess how your contact lenses fit

Review your wearing schedule and habits

Based on the findings, they may recommend changes such as:

Switching to daily disposable lenses

Using lenses designed for dry eyes

Adjusting wear time

Treating underlying dry eye conditions

Proper diagnosis is essential for effective treatment.

The Role of Contact Lens Fit and Type

Not all contact lenses are created equal. Poorly fitted lenses or outdated prescriptions can worsen dryness. Modern contact lenses are designed with materials that allow more oxygen to reach the eye and retain moisture better.

A contact lens fitting ensures:

Proper lens movement

Adequate oxygen flow

Improved comfort throughout the day

Even experienced contact lens wearers benefit from regular evaluations to ensure their lenses are still suitable.

Lifestyle Changes That May Improve Comfort

In addition to professional care, optometrists often recommend lifestyle adjustments to reduce dryness, such as:

Taking breaks from screens

Blinking more frequently

Using humidifiers indoors

Staying hydrated

Following proper lens hygiene

These steps can support overall eye comfort but should complement—not replace—professional care.

Can Dry Eyes from Contact Lenses Lead to Serious Problems?

If left untreated, chronic dryness can increase the risk of:

Eye infections

Corneal irritation or scratches

Inflammation

Reduced tolerance for contact lenses

Seeing an optometrist early helps prevent these complications and protects long-term eye health.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dry Eyes and Contact Lenses

1. Are dry eyes common in contact lens wearers?

Yes. Dry eyes are one of the most common complaints among people who wear contact lenses.

2. Can I continue wearing contact lenses if I have dry eyes?

In many cases, yes—with proper evaluation, lens selection, and treatment recommended by an optometrist.

3. Do artificial tears fix contact lens dry eye?

They may provide temporary relief, but persistent symptoms require professional evaluation.

4. How often should I have a contact lens exam?

Most contact lens wearers should have an exam at least once a year, or sooner if symptoms develop.

5. Can changing contact lenses reduce dry eye symptoms?

Yes. Switching lens type, material, or wear schedule often improves comfort significantly.