why do my soft contacts keep coming out

3 min read 24-01-2025

Meta Description: Frustrated with your soft contact lenses constantly popping out? This comprehensive guide explores common causes, from improper fitting to dry eyes and even certain activities. Learn how to troubleshoot and find solutions to keep your contacts comfortably in place. Discover tips for better lens care and when to consult your eye doctor.

Understanding Contact Lens Dislodgement

Soft contact lenses, while comfortable, can sometimes be prone to popping out. This can be incredibly frustrating, disrupting your day and potentially damaging your lenses. Several factors contribute to this issue, and understanding the root cause is crucial for finding a solution. Let's explore the most common reasons why your soft contacts keep coming out.

Improper Fit: The Most Common Culprit

Incorrect Prescription: The most frequent reason is a poorly fitting lens. If your prescription is outdated or inaccurate, the lens might not sit correctly on your eye, leading to dislodgement. Regular eye exams are crucial for maintaining an accurate prescription. Schedule an appointment with your eye doctor to check for this.
Wrong Lens Type: Different types of soft contact lenses are designed for various eye shapes and conditions. If you're using the wrong type of lens (e.g., a lens not suited for your astigmatism or level of dryness), it's more likely to pop out. Discuss your lifestyle and eye health with your optometrist to choose the most suitable option.
Lens Diameter: The diameter of the contact lens needs to be precisely matched to the size of your cornea. A lens that's too large or too small will be unstable and prone to shifting. Your eye doctor will measure this during your fitting.

Environmental Factors and Lifestyle Habits

Dry Eyes: Dry eyes are a major contributor to contact lens discomfort and dislodgement. Tears lubricate the lenses and keep them in place. If your eyes lack sufficient lubrication, the lenses can easily slip out. Consider using lubricating eye drops designed for contact lens wearers.
Eye Rubbing: Vigorous rubbing of the eyes can dislodge contact lenses. Be mindful of your habits and try to avoid excessive rubbing.
Certain Activities: Some activities put extra strain on your eyes, increasing the risk of contact lens displacement. These include vigorous exercise (especially sports with rapid head movements), swimming, and sleeping while wearing your lenses (which is generally discouraged).
Makeup and Skincare: Certain cosmetics, particularly those containing oils or preservatives, can interfere with lens adhesion. Always apply makeup after inserting contacts and remove it before removing your contacts.

Other Potential Causes

Allergies: Allergic reactions can cause increased eye irritation, excessive tearing, and eye rubbing, all of which can dislodge contacts. Consult an allergist or your eye doctor if you suspect allergies.
Eyelid Conditions: Certain eyelid conditions like blepharitis (inflammation of the eyelids) can affect contact lens comfort and stability.
Improper Handling: Careless handling during insertion and removal can damage the lens or improperly position it, making it more likely to pop out. Always wash and dry your hands thoroughly before handling lenses.

Troubleshooting and Solutions

If you're experiencing frequent contact lens dislodgement, here's what you can do:

Schedule an Eye Exam: The first step is to consult your eye doctor to rule out any underlying issues and ensure your lenses are properly fitted.
Assess Your Lifestyle: Identify any activities that might be causing your lenses to dislodge and modify your behavior accordingly.
Use Lubricating Eye Drops: If you have dry eyes, using artificial tears can significantly improve comfort and stability.
Consider Different Lens Materials: Different materials offer varying levels of comfort and moisture retention. Talk to your eye doctor about potentially switching to silicone hydrogel lenses, which are known for their higher oxygen permeability and moisture content.
Improve Lens Handling Techniques: Practice proper insertion and removal techniques to avoid damaging the lenses and ensure they're positioned correctly.

When to See Your Eye Doctor

While some dislodgements are minor, persistent issues warrant a visit to your eye doctor. Schedule an appointment if:

Your contacts are frequently popping out despite trying different solutions.
You experience significant discomfort or pain while wearing your contact lenses.
You notice any changes in your vision or eye health.

By carefully considering these factors and seeking professional advice when needed, you can significantly reduce the frequency of your soft contact lenses popping out and enjoy clearer, more comfortable vision. Remember, maintaining good contact lens hygiene and regular eye exams are vital for the health of your eyes and the success of your contact lens experience.