Dry Eye and Contact Lenses: 7 Tips for Comfort

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Posted by: Missouri Eye Institute in Blog on July 7, 2025

Wearing contact lenses can feel like magic—until dry eyes make the illusion of healthy vision disappear. If your eyes are itching, burning or constantly watering while wearing lenses, you’re not alone. Millions of Americans experience dry eye syndrome, and it often hits hardest for contact lens wearers. 

The good news? There are proactive ways to protect your eyes and keep them comfortable all day long. Here are seven top tips for easing dry eye symptoms from the experts at Missouri Eye Institute.

1. Start with the Right Contact Lens

Not all lenses are created equal. Silicone hydrogel lenses offer better breathability and moisture retention than traditional soft lenses, making them a smart choice for those prone to dryness. If you plan to wear contact lenses, an ophthalmologist at Missouri Eye can recommend the best materials for your eyes and lifestyle.

2. Give Your Eyes a Break

Wearing your contacts from sunup to sundown doesn’t do your eyes any favors. Swap your lenses for glasses in the evening to let your eyes recover from the irritation of contacts.

3. Hydrate Inside and Out

Drinking plenty of water supports tear production, and humidifiers can help maintain indoor moisture levels. Pair that with preservative-free artificial tears throughout the day, and you’re giving your eyes the hydration boost they desperately need.

4. Be Screen-Savvy

Prolonged screen time can lead to reduced blink rate, meaning your tears don’t get evenly or consistently spread across the eye. Consciously blinking more—and remembering to blink fully—helps redistribute moisture and reduce discomfort while scrolling or working. Also, try the 20-20-20 rule to relieve your eyes: Every 20 minutes, look at something at least 20 feet away for 20 seconds.

5. Keep Lenses Clean and Replace Them On Time

Dirty lenses? A recipe for contact lens irritation. Always follow your eye care provider’s recommended cleaning routine, and don’t stretch the life of your contacts. Overused lenses can trap debris and become less breathable, contributing to dryness.

6. Ask About Meibomian Gland Dysfunction

A common culprit behind dry eye is meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD)—a blockage in the glands that produces the oily layer of your tears. Special lid hygiene routines, warm compress or in-office treatments like LipiFlow and iLux can reduce this inflammation and improve your eye comfort. At Missouri Eye Institute, we offer advanced dry eye treatments that can give you longer-lasting relief than eye drops and other at-home remedies.

7. Ditch the Lenses Altogether with LASIK

If you’re tired of battling contact lens-related dryness, LASIK in Missouri might be the ultimate solution. By eliminating the need for daily lenses, LASIK reduces the friction and irritation that contribute to dry eye symptoms and contact lens intolerance (CLI). It’s a long-term investment in vision clarity—and in your comfort. Your Missouri Eye surgeon will evaluate your tear film and eye health to ensure you’re a good candidate.

Ready to feel the difference? Schedule a LASIK consultation with Missouri Eye Institute today and give your eyes the relief they’ve been waiting for.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most common cause of dry eye in contact lens wearers? 

Dry eye often stems from decreased tear production or increased tear evaporation, made worse by long hours of contact lens wear. Contact lens uses should remove contacts at night and take breaks from contacts as needed to ease symptoms.

Can I wear contact lenses if I have mild dry eye? 

Yes, but you’ll need to manage symptoms with proper hydration, blinking habits and possibly switching lens types or care routines.

Is dry eye permanent or is it curable? 

Dry eye is typically a chronic condition, but it can be managed effectively with lifestyle changes, prescription treatments and ongoing eye care. Getting out of contact lenses through permanent vision correction can also eliminate lenses as a risk factor for dry eyes.

How soon can I return to normal activities after LASIK? 

Most patients resume regular activities, including screen time and light exercise, within 24 to 48 hours after LASIK surgery.

What’s the difference between contact lens intolerance and general dry eye? 

Dry eye affects overall tear production and quality, while contact lens intolerance (CLI) specifically refers to discomfort or inability to wear lenses due to dryness, irritation or lens-related reactions. See your doctor to get a definitive diagnosis, so you can treat your issue effectively.

Can allergy season make dry eye symptoms worse? 

Yes, allergens like pollen and dust can trigger inflammation and increase tear film instability, worsening dry eye symptoms—especially when combined with contact lens wear. Keeping allergies under control can help.

Does wearing contact lenses increase your risk of eye infections? 

Yes. If lenses aren’t cleaned properly or are worn too long, the risk of irritation and infection goes up significantly. Take a break from contacts periodically or talk to your eye doctor about permanent vision correction to get you out of contact lenses.

Missouri Eye Institute has helped thousands of patients attain freedom from glasses and contact lenses, with convenient locations in Springfield, Joplin and Branson. Contact us at (800) 383-3831 to schedule a thorough consultation or visit MissouriEye.com to learn more about our services.