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Rockyview Health Centre, 1011 Glenmore Trail SW Building #1 Suite 423, Calgary, AB T2V 4R6, Canada
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Dry eyes and Contact lenses: Are Contact Lenses Causing Dry Eyes?

Effects Of Contact Lenses On Dry Eyes - Eyedeology

Contact Lens and Dry Eye Disease

Contact lens discomfort is typically experienced by frequent contact lens wearers, especially among those with Dry Eye Disease (DED). The glands within and around our eyelids secrete tears which act as a protective lubricant, known as the tear film, along the surface of the eyes. Individuals who have DED, or experience symptoms of DED such as burning, itching, redness, light sensitivity, etc. already do not produce the correct quality and quantity of tears. Putting a contact lens on top of the eye further disrupts the tear film, resulting in its thinning, thus increasing the friction between the contact lens and the eye surface.

Contact Lens-Induced Dry Eyes

You may notice that your eyes are especially dry when you remove your contact lenses after wearing them for the whole day. Dry eye symptoms may also be exacerbated by the material and/or the fitting of the contact lens. Certain contact lens materials have increased water absorption which further reduces the lubricating ability of the tears. Poor-fitting contact lenses will also increase unwanted movements of the lenses on the eyes, as well as introduce space for debris and dust to enter through. As such, it is very important to see an optometrist prior to wearing a contact lens.

How to Reduce the Risk of Experiencing Dry Eye Symptoms When Wearing Contact Lenses

  • Prior to wearing any type of contact lens, book a contact lens fitting appointment with your optometrist to determine which lens material and shape will best accommodate the curvature of the front of your eyes, thus providing you with the best comfort and keeping your vision stable as you go about your day.
  • Proper contact lens insertion, removal and cleaning should be diligently followed. Doing so reduces the risk of eye infections, which may further exacerbate the symptoms of dry eyes.
  • Ensure that you are wearing the contact lenses only within their allotted wear time. Daily contact lenses should be disposed of every day. Monthly contact lenses can be re-used up to a maximum of 30 days after opening. Contact lens cases should also be replaced every three months to prevent the build-up of germs.
  • Individuals with dry eyes are recommended to reduce the amount of contact lens wear down to a few hours at a time, and only when absolutely needed.
  • Annual eye exams are important in monitoring the health of your eyes, especially due to the increased risk of eye infections associated with contact lens use. Our optometrists will also ensure that you are wearing the correct prescription, which will prevent future eye strain.

Talk to us about your Dry Eye Disease

If you are experiencing dry eye symptoms such as stinging, gritty/sandy sensation, light sensitivity, redness, etc. when wearing contact lenses, you may be suffering from Dry Eye Disease. Contact us at [email protected] or call 587-353-5061 to book a Dry Eye Assessment to determine the cause of your contact lens discomfort. Our optometrists will assist you and provide you with options for alleviating your symptoms and helping you see better. Visit our dry eye page http://eyedeology.ca/services/dry-eye-calgary-clinic/ to learn more about Dry Eyes and the various treatment options available at Eyedeology.

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Deep Cleansing for Healthier Eyelids and Lashes

ZEST (Zocular Eyelid System Treatment) is an in-office eyelid cleaning and debridement treatment developed by Zocular®. It is designed to clean the eyelids and lashes while helping address concerns associated with dry eye, blepharitis, and demodex.

The treatment uses a natural, okra-based gel to remove oil, debris, and residue from the eyelid margins and lashes. By improving eyelid hygiene, ZEST can help reduce the buildup that may contribute to irritation and inflammation around the eyes.

What Is ZEST?

ZEST works like a deep cleansing treatment for the eyelids and lashes. During the procedure, the okra-based gel is applied along the eyelid margins and lashes using a cotton swab. The gel is gently worked into a lather using circular motions before being rinsed away with saline solution.
The gel contains a refined extract of okra, an edible green seed pod. According to the provided product information, okra helps lift and clear oil, debris, and residue while being gentle around the eye area.

How Can ZEST Help?

Keeping the eyelids, eyelid margins, and lashes clean is an important part of eye hygiene. Buildup along the eyelid edges can contribute to symptoms such as itching, burning, gritty sensations, redness, and irritation.

ZEST is designed to address this buildup through thorough cleansing and debridement.

  • Removes Debris: Helps clear dirt, oil, and residue from the eyelid margins and lashes.
  • Supports Eyelid Hygiene: Provides a deeper cleansing treatment than routine eyelid cleaning.
    Addresses Demodex: The treatment is designed to help remove demodex mites and associated debris.
  • Helps Reduce Inflammation: Cleansing the eyelid area may help address buildup associated with irritation and inflammation.
  • Supports Dry Eye Care: ZEST may help relieve symptoms associated with dry eye and poor eyelid hygiene.

ZEST for Dry Eye, Blepharitis, and Demodex

Dry eye and blepharitis can be associated with inadequate eyelid hygiene. Debris along the eyelid margins can enter the tear film with blinking, potentially contributing to redness and irritation.

Demodex mites can also be present in the hair follicles around the eyelashes. According to the provided information, they may contribute to inflammation and dry eye symptoms by blocking the oil glands at the base of the eyelashes.

ZEST provides targeted cleansing of the eyelid margins and lashes to help remove this buildup and address demodex-related concerns.

A Simple In-Office Treatment

The ZEST procedure is performed in the office and involves applying the cleansing gel to the eyelid margins and lashes, working it into a lather, and then rinsing the area with saline solution. The treatment is designed to provide thorough eyelid and lash cleansing without requiring a lengthy procedure.

Is ZEST Right for You?

ZEST may be considered for patients experiencing symptoms associated with dry eye, blepharitis, demodex, or eyelid debris. An eye care professional can assess your symptoms and determine whether ZEST is appropriate for your eye care needs.
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