Can you use natural tears with contacts? This is a common question among contact lens wearers, especially those who experience dry eye symptoms. In this article, we will explore the use of natural tears with contacts, their benefits, and potential risks. By the end, you’ll have a better understanding of whether or not natural tears are suitable for your contact lens routine.
Contact lenses can sometimes cause dryness and discomfort, as they cover the cornea and reduce the natural tear film’s ability to keep the eye moist. This is where natural tears come into play. Natural tears are formulated to mimic the composition of your natural tears, providing relief for dry eye symptoms and maintaining the health of your eyes.
Benefits of Using Natural Tears with Contacts
1. Relief from Dryness: Natural tears can help alleviate dryness and irritation caused by contact lenses, making your eyes feel more comfortable throughout the day.
2. Moisture Retention: By using natural tears, you can maintain a healthy tear film, which is essential for the overall health of your eyes and the longevity of your contact lenses.
3. Reduced Risk of Eye Infection: Natural tears can help prevent eye infections by keeping the eyes moist and reducing the risk of bacteria buildup.
4. Improved Vision: When your eyes are well-moisturized, your vision can be clearer and more comfortable, allowing you to enjoy your day without distractions.
How to Use Natural Tears with Contacts
To use natural tears with contacts, follow these steps:
1. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before handling your contacts.
2. Remove your contact lenses from your eyes.
3. Squeeze a few drops of natural tears onto the contact lenses.
4. Wait a few moments for the tears to spread evenly across the lenses.
5. Reinsert the contact lenses into your eyes.
It’s important to note that you should not use artificial tears that contain preservatives with your contacts. These preservatives can cause irritation and discomfort, especially if you wear contacts for extended periods.
When to Use Natural Tears with Contacts
You can use natural tears with your contacts in several situations:
1. At the Start of Your Day: Applying natural tears before inserting your contacts can help reduce dryness and keep your eyes comfortable throughout the day.
2. Throughout the Day: If you experience dryness or discomfort, add a few drops of natural tears to your lenses as needed.
3. Before Bed: Wearing contacts overnight can exacerbate dry eye symptoms. Applying natural tears before bed can help keep your eyes moist and reduce irritation.
4. After Removing Your Contacts: Use natural tears to rinse your contacts and help maintain their cleanliness and comfort.
Conclusion
In conclusion, using natural tears with contacts can be a beneficial addition to your contact lens care routine. They can help alleviate dryness, maintain moisture, and reduce the risk of eye infections. However, it’s essential to choose the right type of natural tears and use them appropriately to ensure your eyes remain healthy and comfortable. Always consult with your eye care professional before making any changes to your contact lens care routine.
