If you wear contact lenses and suffer from allergies, you know the combination can sometimes be uncomfortable at best, and seriously debilitating at worst. Pollen, dust and other allergens can irritate your eyes, making contact lens wear challenging, particularly in the warmer months when grass pollen season peaks. In summer, wearing contact lenses by the beach can add in another dimension with sand thrown in the mix.
But don’t worry! With the right strategies and products, you can manage allergies effectively while enjoying the convenience of daily disposable contact lenses. Here are some top tips for managing allergies and minimising discomfort when wearing contact lenses.
Contact lenses and allergies: understanding the symptoms
Allergy symptoms can range from mild to severe and often include:
- itching
- redness
- watering
- a gritty feeling in the eyes
- discharge
- light sensitivity
How allergies affect contact lens wearers
When allergens enter the eyes, they trigger the body’s immune response. Allergens like pollen and dust can adhere to the surface of your lenses, causing further irritation.
This can lead to discomfort, blurred vision and, in some cases, the need to remove your lenses altogether.
Fortunately, there are effective strategies to manage the symptoms before you reach the removal stage. Here’s your action plan for wearing contact lenses with allergies.
Problem: increased irritation
When allergens like pollen, dust, or pet dander stick to contact lenses, they can cause significant irritation. These tiny particles adhere to the surface of the lenses, making it difficult for your eyes to get relief even when you blink.
This continuous exposure to allergens can result in red, itchy, and watery eyes, making it uncomfortable to wear lenses for extended periods. This irritation can be particularly problematic during peak allergy seasons, such as spring and autumn, when allergen levels are at their highest.
Solution: regularly replace your lenses
Daily disposable contact lenses can help mitigate this issue by ensuring a fresh, allergen-free surface every day.
Problem: dry eyes
Allergies can significantly impact tear production, leading to dry eyes. The body’s allergic response can decrease the production of natural tears, which are essential for keeping the eyes lubricated and comfortable.
When tear production is compromised, wearing contact lenses can become uncomfortable, as lenses rely on a thin film of tears to maintain moisture and reduce friction between the lens and the eye. Dry eyes can cause lenses to feel gritty or sticky, exacerbating discomfort.
Solution: use rewetting drops
Rewetting drops can be a lifesaver for contact lens wearers with allergies and dry eyes. These drops help to keep your eyes moist and flush out any allergens that may be causing irritation. Look for preservative-free options to avoid additional irritation.
Plus, drink lots of water, especially in hotter climates, to ensure you stay hydrated throughout the day.
Problem: infection risk
Scratching or rubbing itchy eyes is a common response to allergy discomfort, but it can introduce bacteria and increase the risk of eye infections. When you rub your eyes, you transfer germs from your hands to your eyes, which can lead to conditions such as conjunctivitis (pink eye) or keratitis (inflammation of the cornea).
Contact lens wearers are particularly vulnerable to infections because lenses can trap bacteria and allergens against the eye’s surface.
Solution: wash your hands!
To reduce this risk, practice good hygiene by washing your hands thoroughly before handling your lenses and avoid touching your eyes with unclean hands. If you experience persistent itchiness, consult your eye care professional for appropriate treatments.
Problem: lens deposits
Allergens can cause protein deposits to form on contact lenses, which further irritate the eyes. These deposits can create a rough surface on the lenses, leading to discomfort and reducing the clarity of your vision. Protein deposits can also promote the growth of bacteria, increasing the risk of eye infections.
Solution: regularly replace your lenses
Regularly replacing your lenses, particularly with daily disposable contact lenses, can help prevent the buildup of these deposits.
Top tips for managing allergies with contact lenses
1. Switch to daily disposable contact lenses
One of the best ways to manage allergies as a contact lens wearer is to switch to daily disposable contact lenses. daysoft’s daily disposable contact lenses are a fantastic choice for minimising allergy-related discomfort. Here’s why:
- Fresh lenses every day: daily disposables ensure you start each day with a clean, fresh pair of lenses, reducing the buildup of allergens and irritants.
- Convenience: No need to worry about cleaning and storing your lenses. Simply dispose of them in your household rubbish at the end of the day.
- Cost-effective: daysoft offers affordable daily disposable lenses, making it easier to prioritise eye health without breaking the bank. Read about Why daysoft Provide The Best Value Contact Lenses.
2. Maintain good hygiene
Proper hygiene is crucial for contact lens wearers, especially during allergy season. Always wash and dry your hands thoroughly before handling your lenses. For more info, watch this video about contact lens hygiene.
3. Avoid rubbing your eyes
Rubbing your eyes can make allergy symptoms worse and increase the risk of infection. Instead, use a cold compress to soothe itching and redness. If your eyes are particularly itchy, consult your eye care professional for advice on antihistamine eye drops that are safe to use with contact lenses.
4. Wear sunglasses outdoors
Wearing sunglasses can help protect your eyes from airborne allergens such as pollen. They act as a barrier, reducing the amount of allergens that come into contact with your eyes. This can help to minimise irritation and keep your contact lenses comfortable.
5. Keep your environment clean
Regularly cleaning your home can help reduce the number of allergens that come into contact with your eyes. Use a vacuum with a HEPA filter, dust surfaces frequently, and keep windows closed during high pollen seasons. An air purifier can also help to remove allergens from the air.
What if you’re away from home? We’ve got you! Read our blogs on swimming with contact lenses, camping with contact lenses and wearing contact lenses at the beach.
Contact lenses and allergies: clear vision ahead
Managing allergies while wearing contact lenses can be challenging, but with the right approach, you can keep your eyes comfortable and healthy. By switching to daily disposable lenses like those from Daysoft, maintaining good hygiene, and following these practical tips, you can enjoy the benefits of contact lenses without the discomfort of allergies.
Remember, it’s always important to consult with your eye care professional before making any changes to your contact lens routine. They can provide personalised advice and ensure you’re using the best products for your needs.
Embrace the convenience of daily disposable contact lenses and enjoy clearer, more comfortable vision even during allergy season. Your eyes will thank you!
