Sensitive Eyes
With well over 20 million people suffering from sensitive eyes in the United States alone, it is no wonder there is a multi-million dollar industry dedicated to alleviating their discomfort. Whether the sensitivity is due to environmental irritants, make-up, or chemical solutions, it can make wearing contact lenses problematic. Even for those who prefer the erudite look of glasses, these irritants can still wreak havoc
Human Eye Sensitivity
Given the relatively fragility of the human eye, it is not surprising that any number of factors can irritate and damage its delicate components. The most sensitive component of the eye is the outer layer, which consists of the cornea and the sclera. The sclera is the literal “white” of the eye that gives it its shape and rigidity. It is awash with nutrient-delivering capillaries and is highly sensitive to foreign particles.
Capillaries, however, do not nourish the cornea. Known as the “clear” part of the eye, the cornea encompasses the iris and the pupil. It is nourished by the tear film, which is the lubricating film secreted by the lachrymal glands. When a foreign particle or irritant comes in contact with the sclera or cornea, these glands (found in the orbital portion of the eye socket, generate more tears in an effort to flush the eye clean.
While the lachrymal glands produce more tears, it is a common response to rub the eyes, which stimulates the glands to produce even more tears. If the irritants are particularly virulent, as with smoke, it can trigger a coughing response, which can then cause subconjunctival hemorrhages in the sclera. These hemorrhages are what are commonly referred to “red eyes.”
Contact Lens Care
Approximately 24 million Americans opt to wear contact lenses. Though they effectively cater to active lifestyles, they can aggravate sensitive eyes. When a particle of dust or pollen makes contact with the tear film, it can be pulled under the contact lens, making it more difficult to flush the eye clean. Given the fact that both contact lenses and the cornea are gas-permeable, air-borne irritants -- like smoke -- can pass easily to the eye. Again, contact lenses can exacerbate the irritation by trapping and re-cycling the smoke.
In either case, the best way to alleviate the irritation is to remove the lenses and clean them thoroughly. With the contacts out, the tear film will have the opportunity to restore itself and flush the eyes clean. It is imperative that the hands are washed with soap and water before handling the contacts to avoid recontamination.
If it is not convenient to remove the contact lenses, a re-wetting solution can be used to help the lachrymal glands. Re-wetting solutions have been designed to lubricate the eyes, buffering the lenses from the cornea and sclera. While not the optimal course of action, a few drop of re-wetting solution can be very effective in the short term.