Why do my contacts burn? When you receive the proper prescription, use good hygiene, and insert your contact lenses properly, your eyes shouldn’t hurt. Sure, it might take a little time to get used to the feeling, but you shouldn’t be in pain. So, if your eyes burn or feel irritated when you put in your contacts, you need to take a close look at your habits and any other symptoms you’re experiencing. And if you aren’t able to figure out why your eyes are burning and find some relief, make an appointment with your eye doctor ASAP.
Reasons Why Your Contacts May Burn
According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, if your eyes burn after you insert your contact lenses, one of the following issues may be to blame:
- Lenses that do not fit properly
- Physical irritation from damaged lenses
- An allergy to chemicals in your cleaning/storage solutions
- Sensitivity to protein deposits on the lens
- Swelling of the cornea
- Dry eyes
- An eye infection
In addition, your eyes may burn if you fail to wash, rinse, and dry your hands properly before inserting or removing your contacts. Soap residue and towel lint can cause eye irritation. Failing to clean and store your contact lenses properly can also be an issue. Debris, dust, lint, makeup, hair products, and perfume can all linger on contacts that haven’t been thoroughly cleaned. Finally, even if you clean your contacts well, debris will accumulate over time so it’s crucial that you follow the replacement schedule prescribed by your eye doctor. Don’t wear your contacts longer than they’re meant to be worn or after they’ve expired.
What to Do If Your Contacts Burn
If your eyes burn when you try to put in your contacts, don’t force it. You may wish to try cleaning the lenses thoroughly or switching to a new pair of lenses. If the issue was caused by damaged lenses or protein deposits, this may help. You could also give your eyes a 24-hour break to see if they feel better with time. If they still hurt, wear your backup glasses for the time being and make an appointment with your eye doctor.
How to Prevent Contact Lens Discomfort
How can you prevent your contacts from burning in the future? The following tips should help:
- Thoroughly wash and rinse your hands before inserting or removing your contacts. Use a mild soap and lint-free towel.
- Try to avoid getting makeup or hair products on your contacts.
- Use contact lens solution recommended by your eye doctor or the contact lens manufacturer.
- Don’t “top up” old contact solution. Use fresh solution every time.
- If you have allergies, you may find it helpful to limit the length of time you wear contacts, switch to daily contacts, or use eye drops recommended by your eye doctor.
- Never wear contact lenses longer than you’re supposed to or past the expiration date.
- If you experience a burning sensation or other discomfort when inserting or wearing your contacts, book an eye exam as soon as possible.
_____
Are you wondering, “Why do my contacts burn?” Or perhaps you’re nervous about trying contact lenses for the first time? If you live near southwest Missouri, contact Heffington’s. Since 1975, the Heffington family has been assisting the Springfield community with top-quality eye care and affordable eyeglasses and contacts. One of the unique features of our family-owned business is that we manufacture lenses at our own laboratory, giving us total control over the service and pricing, and we’re happy to pass our savings on to you. To learn more about our products and services, please get in touch with us online, send an email to asktheexperts@heffingtons.com, or give us a call at 417-869-3937 (Optiland location) or 417-882-3937 (House of Vision location). We look forward to hearing from you, and we would be happy to help if you’re wondering, “How long does it take to get used to contacts?”