Wearing contact lenses should be a comfortable, convenient way to see clearly. However, that’s not always the case. If your contact lenses leave your eyes feeling dry, irritated, or tired by the end of the day, that doesn’t mean you have to give up on contact lenses entirely. You may just be wearing the wrong type of lens!  

Soft contact lenses aren’t right for everyone 

Most people start with soft contact lenses because they’re popular, easy to adapt to, and generally affordable. But soft lenses aren’t the best fit for everyone. There are several reasons traditional contact lenses might feel uncomfortable: 

• Dry eye – Soft lenses can worsen dryness by absorbing your natural tears. 
• Poor fit – If your lens doesn’t fit your eye properly, it can shift or irritate the surface of the eye. 
• Astigmatism – Regular spherical lenses may not provide clear or stable vision if you have astigmatism. 
• Irregular corneas – Conditions such as keratoconus or corneal scarring can make standard lenses difficult to wear. 

If any of these factors apply to you, switching to a specialty contact lens could make a significant difference. 

What are specialty contact lenses? 

Specialty contact lenses are designed to address more complex vision needs or specific eye conditions that standard soft lenses can’t always manage effectively. These lenses come in a variety of designs, materials, and fitting styles to ensure better comfort, stability, and visual clarity. 

Types of specialty lenses 

Here are some common types of specialty contact lenses that may offer a better solution for uncomfortable eyes: 

Hybrid contact lenses

Hybrid lenses feature a rigid gas permeable (RGP) center surrounded by a soft outer skirt. The rigid center provides crisp, stable vision, especially for people with astigmatism or irregular corneas, while the soft edge enhances comfort and keeps the lens securely in place. 

Toric contact lenses 

Toric lenses are designed for people with astigmatism. If you have astigmatism, standard lenses can rotate on the eye and cause blurry vision. However, toric lenses are weighted or shaped to stay in position and provide more consistent clarity. 

Scleral lenses

Scleral lenses are larger than standard lenses and rest on the white part of the eye (the sclera) rather than the cornea. Scleral lenses create a reservoir of fluid between the lens and the eye, making them a good option for individuals with dry eye, keratoconus, or post-surgical corneas. Their design offers both comfort and protection. 

Rigid gas permeable (RGP) lenses 

RGP lenses are small, durable, and provide sharp vision correction. Though they can take some time to adjust to, they often provide better vision for people with high prescriptions, astigmatism, or corneal irregularities. 

You don’t have to live with discomfort 

If your current contact lenses aren’t comfortable, that doesn’t mean you’re out of options. At Primary EyeCare Associates, we specialize in helping patients find the right contact lenses for their unique eyes. We offer specialty contact lenses in Sidney, Ohio, including hybrid lenses, toric lenses, Europa scleral lenses, and rigid gas permeable (RGP) lenses.  

We take the time to understand your needs and match you with lenses that offer clear, comfortable vision. Schedule an appointment today to find the best contact lens for your needs.