Use of eye drops for contact lens wearers

Wearing contact lenses requires strict care and adherence to many rules of use.
In fact, these fragile little vision devices that sit directly on the surface of the eye need to be preserved.
Contact lens wearers may sometimes need to use eye drops, which is fine as long as they choose the right type and insert them in the right way.

When do contact lens wearers need eye drops?

The need for eye drops can be medical if the eye is infected or inflamed.
For example, people who are prone to hay fever or conjunctivitis often need to use eye drops.
However, the most common reason for contact lens wearers to use eye drops is dry eyes.
This may be necessary occasionally, as when contact lenses are difficult to remove because they have been worn for too long and have dried out.
Or the need may be more regular, especially for people with dry eye syndrome.
It should be noted that soft contact lens wearers often need moisturising drops more often than rigid contact lens wearers.

Which eye drops to use with contact lenses?

Contact lens wearers cannot use all types of eye drops.
In fact, only rewetting eye drops and preservative-free eye drops are approved for contact lens wearers.
Rewetting or moisturising drops are specially designed for contact lens wearers.
These drops lubricate the eyes and moisturise and clean the lenses, making them more comfortable to wear.
Many eye drops are not suitable for use with contact lenses because they contain chemicals that may damage them.
Preservative-free eye drops are therefore recommended for contact lens wearers.
On the other hand, vasoconstrictive eye drops or overly thick lubricating drops should be avoided.
Similarly, eye drops prescribed for medical reasons, such as conjunctivitis, may not be compatible with contact lenses.
That's why it's usually best to consult your eye doctor or optician first.

How do I apply eye drops if I wear contact lenses?

When contact lens wearers need to apply eye drops, they must follow a specific process to do it correctly.
First, they need to clean their hands thoroughly, as they do every time they handle their contact lenses.
They can then carefully remove their lenses and temporarily store them in their case.
In fact, only rewetting drops can be used while the contact lenses are still on the eyes.
Once the contact lenses have been removed, the eye drops can be gently applied to the eyes.
It is advisable to wait ten to fifteen minutes before putting your contact lenses back in.
Eye drops can also be applied in the morning before inserting contact lenses or after removing them in the evening.