Updated: January 20, 2026
Contact lenses should not cause pain when they are fitted correctly and the eyes are healthy. Physical pain is a warning signal that the lens is damaged, contaminated, or that the ocular surface requires medical attention.
- Remove the lens immediately if you feel a sharp or gritty sensation because a foreign object like dust or lint may be trapped underneath.
- Inspect the edges of the lens for tiny tears or chips which can scratch the sensitive corneal tissue.
- Rinse the lens thoroughly with sterile multi-purpose solution to remove debris before attempting to reinsert it.
- Recognize that a scratched cornea or corneal abrasion causes intense pain and light sensitivity that makes lens wear impossible until the eye heals.
- Discard any lens that causes persistent discomfort even after cleaning as the material may have microscopic deposits or defects.
Pain accompanied by redness or blurred vision requires an immediate consultation with an eye care professional. Ignoring these symptoms can lead to more serious conditions like corneal ulcers or infections.
Disclaimer: This information is for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
References:
Arshad M, et al. Compliance and behavioral risk factors for contact lens-related microbial keratitis (pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33211568/). 2021.
Wolffsohn JS, et al. CLEAR, Evidence-based contact lens practice (pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33775384/). 2021.
Gomes JAP, et al. TFOS DEWS II iatrogenic dry eye report (pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28736340/). 2017.
