Do you suffer from dry eyes when wearing contact lenses? Dry eye syndrome is a common issue for both contact-lens wearers and non-wearers.
But the good news is that with the help of our qualified Calgary eye doctors, you can find a treatment plan that works well for you so you don’t have to suffer from dry eyes while wearing your contact lenses.
Diagnosing Dry Eye Syndrome
Visiting of our eye doctors is the first step to finding out why your eyes are so dry. At Market Mall Optometry, we are able to accurately determine the cause of your dry eye through:
- A comprehensive eye exam
- Measuring the volume of your tears
- Determining the quality of your tears
Our contact lens specialists take the time to accurately assess the severity of dryness and prescribe the most appropriate treatment options.
Discussing Contact Lens Options
If you are experiencing dry eyes when you wear contact lenses, booking a contact lens fitting with one of our eye doctors is important so that they can recommend a lens which will address your specific needs.
Here are three main factors to take into consideration when choosing contact lenses for dry eyes:
|
Soft Contact Lenses Vs RGPs |
Soft contact lenses are made from special polymers that allow the lenses themselves to hold water. This material is also more permeable, allowing more oxygen to pass through to your cornea. This often makes them a better choice for dry eyes as opposed to rigid or gas permeable contact lenses. |
|
Water Content |
The water content of a soft contact lens can vary greatly so it’s important to consult with your eye doctor to ensure you are using the contacts best suited for you. Soft contacts with a higher ‘wetness’ level may worsen your dry eye symptoms in the long run while a lens with a content level of about 38% will allow your eyes to breathe without drying them out. |
|
Silicone Hydrogel Contact Lenses |
Silicone-hydrogel contact lenses tend to be a great option for patients suffering from dry eyes. They allow even more oxygen to pass through to the cornea than regular soft contact lenses and generally have a low water content. |
There are a wide variety of contact lenses designed specifically for helping alleviate eye dryness. Our knowledgeable eye doctors are able to help you best determine which option is right for you.
Calgary Dry Eye Care - Tips For Healthy Vision
At Market Mall Optometry, we understand how healthy vision can greatly improve your quality of life.
If you suffer from dry eyes, here are a few tips to help keep your vision clear and comfortable.
-
Schedule regular eye exams to ensure maximum eye and vision wellness
-
Eat foods that feed your eyes for optimal optical health
-
Work with your optometrist to test a range of lenses until you find the perfect choice
-
Ensure you drink sufficient water to keep your body well-hydrated
-
Replace your contact lenses on time (read more)
-
If you spend a lot of time on your computer, ensure you take regular breaks
-
Talk to your eye doctor about lubricating drops
Want To Know More?
To learn more about our dry eye care services or to find out which contact lenses are right for you, contact our NW Calgary eye clinic at 403-286-4884 or book a consultation.
