How to Avoid Contact Lens Discomfort: Fit, Care & Follow-Up

Contact lenses offer convenience, freedom from glasses, and clear vision throughout the day. However, when lenses aren’t properly fitted or cared for, discomfort can quickly get in the way of your daily routine. At Market Street Optometry, our experienced eye doctors in San Francisco, CA help patients find comfortable, effective contact lens options tailored to their unique eyes. Whether you’re new to contacts or have worn them for years, here’s what you need to know about avoiding contact lens discomfort.

Proper Fitting Matters

 

Every eye is different. A contact lens exam in San Francisco should include more than evaluating your prescription. During your visit, our optometrists:

•           Measure the curvature of your cornea

•           Assess tear film quality

•           Evaluate eye health and lifestyle needs

•           Offer advanced lens options such as toric lenses for astigmatism or specialty lenses for dry eye and keratoconus

A proper fit ensures your lenses sit comfortably on the eye without causing irritation, shifting, or reducing oxygen flow.

Take Care of Your Lenses the Right Way

 

Contact lens hygiene plays a major role in maintaining comfort and protecting your eyes from infection. Simple habits can make a big difference:

•           Wash and dry your hands before handling lenses

•           Clean and disinfect reusable lenses daily using the recommended solution

•           Replace your storage case every 1-3 months

•           Avoid sleeping in your lenses unless your optometrist has approved it

•           Follow the recommended replacement schedule (daily, bi-weekly, or monthly)

Avoid rinsing or storing lenses in tap water - this can expose your eyes to harmful bacteria.

Give Your Eyes Hydration and Breaks

 

Healthy tear production keeps contacts comfortable. If you experience dryness, try:

•           Taking breaks from screens to reduce digital eye strain

•           Using contact-lens-approved lubricating drops

•           Staying hydrated throughout the day

•           Considering lenses designed for dry eye or extended wear

Our optometrists can recommend materials and brands that support better moisture retention.

Schedule Regular Follow-Ups

 

Even if everything feels fine, yearly contact lens exams are essential. Your eye health and lens fit can change over time. Routine follow-ups ensure:

•           Ongoing comfort and proper fit

•           Early detection of irritation or inflammation

•           Updates based on lifestyle or prescription changes

If you ever experience redness, pain, or sudden changes in vision, contact us right away.

Experience Comfortable Vision with Market Street Optometry

 

You don’t have to settle for contact lens discomfort. With the right fit, proper care, and regular check-ins, contacts can remain a safe and comfortable option.

Schedule a contact lens exam at Market Street Optometry and keep your eyes feeling their best. Visit our office in San Francisco, California, or call (415) 896-1824 to book an appointment today.