When Dry Eye Meets Contact Lenses
This article will delve into how to treat dry eye disease, and then explore how to refine selection and design of various contact lens modalities for patients with ocular surface disease.
By
ELISE KRAMER, OD, FAAO
November 1, 2025
Clinical Scorecard: When Dry Eye Meets Contact Lenses
At a Glance
Category Detail
Condition Dry Eye Disease (DED) Key Mechanisms Tear film instability, hyperosmolality, inflammation, and damage to the ocular surface. Target Population Patients with Dry Eye Disease who wear contact lenses. Care Setting Ophthalmology and optometry practices.
Key Highlights
DED affects millions and can significantly impair quality of life. Contact lens wear may exacerbate DED symptoms, leading to dropout. Successful lens wear is defined as comfortable use for 12 hours daily, 6 days a week. Lid wiper epitheliopathy is a common indicator of contact lens-related discomfort. Early detection and management of DED can prevent progression and structural damage. Guideline-Based Recommendations
Diagnosis
Utilize point-of-care metrics such as TBUT, ocular surface staining, and tear osmolarity. Management
Implement patient education, environmental changes, and artificial tears based on tear film deficiency. Monitoring & Follow-up
Regular assessment of tear film stability and ocular surface health. Risks
Increased symptoms in patients using antihistamines, antidepressants, or systemic isotretinoin. Patient & Prescribing Data
Individuals with mild to moderate Dry Eye Disease.
Lipid-enhanced tears for MGD and aqueous-based formulations for low tear volume; all should be preservative-free.
Clinical Best Practices
Educate patients on environmental modifications to reduce symptoms. Encourage regular breaks from screen use and proper blinking techniques. Consider punctal occlusion to increase tear volume. References
