How to stop your contacts from burning eyes

Sometimes, contact lenses can be uncomfortable, which is not very considerate of them, especially while you're new to contacts and are still trying to get your prescription dialed in. That burning sensation isn't good, and whatever is causing it should be dealt with as soon as possible.

Causes of burning eyes from contacts

There are several reasons why your eyes might feel that unpleasant burning sensation when you slip on your contacts. Of course, the words "burning", and "eyes" really don't go well together, but there are several relatively mundane reasons why it happens. 

• Allergies: Allergies can make your eyes water and itch. This is unrelated to whether you're wearing contacts, but if you have silicone sensitivity, your lenses might be triggering an episode.
• Dryness: Dry eyes can feel like they're burning. If you're getting this, it can be because your lenses aren't sufficiently permeable to oxygen, or the lenses are making your eyes drier than they usually are.
• Overuse: All contact lenses have an expiration date, and there are only so many uses you can get out of them before they need to be replaced. Some are rated for a single use only, while rigid lenses can last months. Eventually, they all start to irritate your eyes.
• Solution: Dirty or contaminated solution can introduce debris and cause burning.
• Poor fit/prescription: You need a prescription to get contact lenses, and it needs to be the right one for your eyes. People's eyes are subtly different and need lenses with somewhat unique geometry. Lenses that are slightly out of alignment can irritate the sensitive tissues of the eye.
• Infection: Infections frequently cause painful burning sensations in the eye. This is not a minor issue, and you should get right in to see an eye care professional before the infection causes real harm.
• Fatigue: Sometimes, you've just been wearing the lenses too long, and you're tired. This can be felt as a burning sensation, most often right before bed.

Solutions for contact lens-related burning 

There are a lot of causes for irritated and burning eyes, which is bad, but it doesn't take much to fix it, which is good. Some combination of these approaches works for most people.

Hydration and lubrication

Your eyes are supposed to stay moist and well-supplied with oxygen - yeah, your eyes breathe, too. Some contact lenses can get in the way of that. Use artificial tears in the short term, and shop around for better lenses in the long term until the burning goes away.

If you're using contacts designed to last more than a single use, soak them overnight in clean, clear solution. Rinse them the way your eye care professional showed you, and make sure they don't have anything on them when you put them in.

Lens material

Most lenses are made from a silicone-based material that's largely hypoallergenic. It can still be irritating for some people's eyes, however. Shop around until you've found a type that works best for you.

Proper fit and accuracy in your prescription

Only wear the contact lenses you've been prescribed, and never share them with anybody (not telling you how to live, but sharing contacts is a bad idea). Don't buy lenses from non-approved sources; instead, make sure you're getting the prescription and fit that you need.

Prevent burning with long-term care best practices

That's the short-term approach taken care of, but how can you prevent burning over the long term? 

Take breaks

Even if you've been wearing contacts your whole life, you're bound to get tired eventually. Don't be shy about popping your lenses out from time to time to take breaks. Rest your eyes while you're doing this, preferably closed, and don't strain if you're starting to feel fatigue.

Reduce environmental issues

Environmental factors, such as dust and allergens, are leading causes of itching and burning eyes. Poorly cleaned or fitted contacts can trap small particles of this debris against the sensitive surface of your eyes (ick). Avoid this by putting in your contacts in a clean, particle-free environment and cleaning them regularly.

Your contacts should not be hurting you

Even if it's bound to happen from time to time, you shouldn't be living with constantly burning eyes (bold assertion, we know). Switch out your contacts as often as indicated, keep them clean, and set up a meeting with your eye care professional to find out more.

FAQs

Can certain medications contribute to burning eyes with contacts?

Some medications, especially antihistamines, can cause dry, burning eyes. Ask your doctor about alternatives. 

Can burning eyes from contacts lead to more serious eye conditions?

The burning is a symptom, not a disease. Nevertheless, whatever is causing the burning feeling could get worse and should be addressed quickly.

How can I differentiate between normal discomfort and a serious eye issue?

As a rule, brief, temporary burning that isn't too bad shouldn't worry you. Persistent or severe burning, or irritation with redness and discharge, can be signs you need an eye exam soon.