Contact lenses have many appealing aspects, like their convenience and wide field of view. However, they do still come with their own set of potential complications.
For instance, contact lenses can cause foggy vision. This may have several causes, including:
- Deposits on the lenses
- Dry eyes
- Environmental factors
- Old or damaged lenses
- Improper fit or lens type
- An eye infection
Maintaining clear, healthy vision with contact lenses is possible. It all starts with a regular contact lens exam and understanding the root causes behind contact lens-related vision problems.
Causes of Foggy Vision with Contact Lenses
Foggy vision can be caused by various factors, ranging from your environment to how your lenses interact with your eyes. Here are some common reasons for foggy vision with contact lenses.
Lens Deposits
Over time and without proper contact lens hygiene, residue from tears, oils, or makeup can build up on your lenses. These deposits can result in foggy vision.
Dry Eyes
When a person has dry eye, their eyes either don’t produce enough tears or the quality of those tears isn’t great. In such cases, your contact lenses can feel uncomfortable and your vision may appear hazy.
Environmental Factors
Humidity, air conditioning, or working in front of a computer screen for long hours can make your lenses dry out quicker, often leading to foggy vision.
Old or Damaged Lenses
Wearing lenses beyond their recommended lifespan or using a damaged lens with small scratches or tears can also affect how well you see.
Improper Fit or Lens Type
Not all lenses are created equal. If your lenses aren’t the right fit for your eyes or aren’t designed for your vision needs, fogginess can become an issue.
Eye Infection
Not properly caring for your contact lenses or wearing your contacts for too long or overnight can also increase the risk of eye infections. Bacteria, fungi, and other harmful substances can easily accumulate on lenses that aren’t cleaned or stored correctly as well as during overnight wear. These factors can lead to eye conditions such as contact lens-related corneal infection.
Solutions for Foggy Vision with Contact Lenses
Foggy vision doesn’t have to be a permanent challenge. Small adjustments to your habits and routine can reduce your risk of vision discomfort.
Keep Your Lenses Clean
Proper contact lens hygiene is non-negotiable. Clean your lenses daily using a cleaning solution recommended by your eye care provider. Avoid using water or homemade solutions, as these can introduce bacteria.
Stay Hydrated—Inside & Out
Drink plenty of water to support healthy tear production, and consider using rewetting drops or artificial tears to keep your lenses moist throughout the day.
Replace Lenses as Directed
Whether you use daily, bi-weekly, or monthly lenses, stick to the schedule outlined by your eye doctor. Overwearing contact lenses is one of the easiest ways to invite foggy vision and other potential vision problems.
Adjust Your Environment
Combat dry air by using a humidifier at home or in the office. Additionally, follow the 20-20-20 rule and give your eyes a break from screens every 20 minutes.
Give Your Eyes a Break from Contacts
In some cases, it may be necessary to remove your contact lenses and stop wearing them altogether. If your eyes feel dry or irritated, try switching to glasses for a day or two to allow your eyes to rest and recover.
Have a Contact Lens Exam
If you’ve tried the options suggested above and are still experiencing foggy vision with your contact lenses on, it may be time for a check-up. Your eyes change over time, so it’s important to have regular comprehensive eye exams and contact lens exams to assess any changes in your vision and get a new prescription.
Your eye doctor can help determine if you’ll benefit from a different type of lens or prescription.
When to Seek Professional Help
While you can solve foggy vision with better habits or simple adjustments, there are times when this symptom might signal a more serious issue. Contact your eye care professional if you experience the following symptoms:
- Persistent foggy vision
- Discomfort
- Redness
- Any sudden changes in your eyesight
Clear, Comfortable Vision with Contact Lenses
Vision impairment, such as foggy, blurry, or double vision, can lead to frustration and affect quality of life. Foggy vision with contact lenses can occur for many reasons. By understanding the common causes, maintaining good lens hygiene, and following healthy eye habits, you can enjoy the clear, sharp vision you deserve.
Regular contact lens exams are the key to catching and correcting small issues before they become big problems. Book an appointment with Total Vision Pacific EyeCare today and keep your vision clear and comfortable.
