Dry Eyes don’t have to Come Between you and your Contacts

Dry Eyes As much as we know that dry eye syndrome exists, we also know that many of the people who suffer the uncomfortable symptoms of this condition do not talk with their eye doctor about their concerns. This is especially true among people who wear contact lenses. This form of vision correction is chosen by those who do not want to wear eyeglasses throughout their waking hours. It’s understandable that, if you wear contact lenses and also frequently experience scratching, redness, and other irritation associated with dryness, you may fear being told you have to give up your contacts.

If this is your assumption, we should talk.

Historically, the existence of dry eye syndrome has been a contraindication for contact lens use. The issue was cut-and-dry; you have dry eyes, no contacts for you! This isn’t the case anymore. Advances in technology have led to great strides in the availability of treatments and remedies specifically for contact-lens wearers. So much improvement has been made, in fact, that we routinely see terminology such as “contact lenses for dry eyes.”

What does this even mean, contact lenses for dry eyes? The phrase essentially describes manufacturing practices that are aimed at reducing dry eye symptoms related directly to contact-lens use. If you wear contact lenses and frequently encounter unpleasant problems such as a foreign body sensation, your first step in resolving the issue is to consult with your eye doctor.

In our Melrose and Reading ophthalmology practices, we conduct a thorough assessment for dry eyes. Many patients are surprised to learn that their comfort can be improved without having to discontinue their use of contact lenses.

Options for Contacts and Dry Eyes

If contact lenses and dry eyes don’t seem like a good pairing, it’s because they’re not. That is unless you give innovative products or treatments a try.

  • Some manufacturers, like Bausch + Lomb, are now making contact lenses with silicon hydrogel that retains moisture all day long.
  • Eye drops are available for contact-lens wearers, and also for dry eye sufferers. Finding a product that addresses both is possible when you consult with your eye doctor.
  • Laser dry eye treatment treats the lids with IPL or Intense Pulsed Light. This unclogs the glands that facilitate tear production, achieving longer lasting relief than is possible with eye drops.

Do you have questions about contacts for dry eyes? Contact us in Melrose or Reading for personal care.

How to Combat Dry Eyes

dry eyesSuffering from dry eyes can make everyday tasks like driving or even having a conversation with someone to be a bit irritating— especially if you suffer from chronic dry eye. And unless you want to spend the majority of your day blinking in order to moisturize your dry eyes, then you need to look for a solution to your problem. From over-the-counter eye drops to laser treatment for dry eye, this article will discuss a few of the different options that you have to choose from. Read on to learn more.

Over-the-Counter Eye Drops
If you go to the pharmacy or your local drugstore you are going to see boxes upon boxes of eye drops that you can buy. Used for things such as allergies or dry eye, over-the-counter eye drops can help give you the instant relief that you have desired. By simply taking one or two eye drops that are designed specifically for dry eye, and dropping them into your eye a few times a day, you will start to notice that your eyes will start to produce more natural tears and that they will retain the moisture they need.

Laser Treatment
If you have tried over-the-counter eye drops for years and still haven’t seen a noticeable difference, dr. Mark Latina provides patients with the opportunity to receive laser treatment for dry eyes. By giving patients relief for several months up to a year, IPL Laser Treatment is a safe and effective way to restore moisture to your eyes. By unclogging inflamed and clogged dormant glands in your eyes, the IPL laser helps your tear ducts to speed up production of natural tears to help coat your eyes and give you the desired relief that you have been hoping for.

If you suffer from dry eyes and are looking for some temporary relief, contact Dr. Mark Latina in order to learn more about both over-the-counter eye drops and our IPL laser treatment option as well. Whether you have questions that need to be answered or you are ready to schedule an appointment, our office is on standby to assist you!