Dry Eyes & Contacts 2026: Comfort & Health in Okotoks

2026-03-21

How to Choose the Right Contact Lenses if You Have Dry Eyes in Okotoks

Dry eyes are a common complaint, and for contact lens wearers, they can be particularly frustrating. Finding the right lenses when your eyes are prone to dryness isn’t just about comfort – it’s about maintaining good eye health. Many people don’t realize just how much the type of lens impacts dryness, and a proper fitting with a qualified eye care professional is absolutely essential. Here’s a detailed guide to help you navigate the options, specifically with the Okotoks climate and lifestyle in mind.

What’s Causing Your Dry Eyes? It Matters.

Before we dive into lenses, let’s quickly address the “why” behind dry eyes. It’s not always a simple case of not producing enough tears. Several factors can contribute, including:

• Environmental Factors: Okotoks, like much of Alberta, can experience dry air, especially during the winter months with heating systems running. Wind can also exacerbate dryness.
• Digital Eye Strain: Prolonged screen time – computers, phones, tablets – reduces blink rate, leading to tear evaporation.
• Medical Conditions & Medications: Certain autoimmune diseases, allergies, and medications (antihistamines, decongestants, some antidepressants) can contribute to dry eyes.
• Blepharitis: Inflammation of the eyelids can disrupt the tear film.

Understanding the root cause will help your optometrist determine the best approach, and may influence the type of contact lens recommended. A comprehensive eye exam, including a tear film evaluation, is the first step. This evaluation assesses both the quantity and quality of your tears.

Lens Material: Silicone Hydrogel is Often Key

The material your contact lenses are made from plays a huge role in comfort and dryness. Historically, many lenses were made of Hydrogel, which allows water to pass through. However, silicone hydrogel lenses have become the standard for many, especially for those prone to dryness.

Why silicone hydrogel? Silicone is more permeable to oxygen than traditional hydrogel materials. More oxygen reaching the cornea means healthier eyes and less irritation. Healthy eyes are less likely to become dry and irritated. Silicone hydrogel lenses also tend to retain moisture better, improving comfort throughout the day. While not a perfect solution for everyone, they’re generally the first line of defense for dry eye sufferers.

Other Lens Materials to Consider

While silicone hydrogel is a strong contender, there are other materials. Traditional hydrogel lenses might be suitable for some, but they generally don't perform as well for those with existing dryness. Your optometrist will be able to guide you toward the best material based on your individual needs.

Daily vs. Monthly Contact Lenses: Which is Better for Dry Eyes?

This is a frequently asked question, and the answer isn’t always straightforward. However, daily disposable lenses are often recommended for people with dry eyes.

Here's why:

• Fresh Start Every Day: Daily lenses eliminate the need for cleaning solutions and cases, reducing the build-up of deposits that can irritate dry eyes.
• Reduced Protein Build-Up: Even with diligent cleaning, protein and lipid deposits can accumulate on monthly lenses, contributing to discomfort.
• Less Dehydration: Because you’re using a fresh lens each day, there’s less chance of the lens becoming dehydrated throughout the day, which can exacerbate dryness.

However, daily lenses are typically more expensive in the long run. Monthly lenses can be a viable option if you choose a silicone hydrogel material and practice impeccable lens care (more on that below). The crucial factor is adherence to a strict cleaning and disinfection regimen.

Lubricating Eye Drops: Your Ally in Comfort

Even with the right lenses, lubricating eye drops are often necessary. But not all drops are created equal!

• Preservative-Free Drops: Preservatives can irritate sensitive eyes. Opt for preservative-free artificial tears, especially if you use drops frequently.
• Hyaluronic Acid (HA) Drops: HA is a naturally occurring substance that helps retain moisture. Drops containing HA can provide longer-lasting relief.
• Lipid-Based Drops: These help stabilize the tear film by addressing a deficiency in the oily layer.

Talk to your optometrist about which type of drops are best for your specific needs. Using drops before inserting your lenses can help lubricate the eye and make insertion easier. You can also use them throughout the day as needed.

Proper Contact Lens Care: Non-Negotiable for Dry Eyes

If you choose monthly lenses, meticulous care is paramount:

• Wash Your Hands Thoroughly: Before handling your lenses, wash and dry your hands with a mild, non-moisturizing soap.
• Use the Recommended Solution: Only use the cleaning solution recommended by your optometrist.
• Rub and Rinse: Don't just soak – physically rub and rinse your lenses to remove deposits.
• Replace Your Case Regularly: Contact lens cases can harbor bacteria. Replace your case every 1-3 months.
• Never “Top Off” Solution: Always discard the old solution and use fresh solution each time.

Professional Fitting is Essential

This article provides general guidance, but it’s not a substitute for a professional contact lens fitting. A qualified optometrist will:

• Assess Your Eye Health: Evaluate your tear film, corneal health, and overall eye health.
• Measure Your Eye: Determine the correct lens size and curvature.
• Trial Lenses: Provide you with trial lenses to test different materials and brands.
• Provide Guidance: Offer personalized advice on lens care and management of your dry eyes.

Finding the right contact lenses with dry eyes takes a bit of effort, but it's well worth it for comfortable, healthy vision. Okotoks Eyecare and Premier Eye Care are just two of the many options available to help you find the perfect fit.