How Long Does It Take to Get Used to Wearing Contact Lenses?

Starting to wear contact lenses is exciting, but it can feel awkward at first. Your eyes need time to adjust to something new. Most people get used to them in one to two weeks. Some feel comfortable after just a few days, while others may take a bit longer. Do not worry, any discomfort usually fades gradually.

Why Your Eyes Need Adjustment Time

Contacts sit directly on the surface of your eyes. This can be a bit uncomfortable at first since the nerves in your eyes are sensitive. Your brain constantly notices the presence of the lenses.

Blinking may feel different, and you might feel like you are blinking more often. Tear production increases as your eyes adjust. This is completely normal and temporary for most wearers.

Typical Adaptation Phases

You can expect a bit of mild irritation and grittiness in the first few days of wearing contact lenses. Your vision may feel slightly blurry at times, and handling the lenses could feel awkward and time-consuming. During this phase, you will likely be very aware of the lenses in your eyes. These early signs of adjustment are normal, and your eyes are simply getting used to the new sensation.

By days four to seven, discomfort should significantly lessen. Inserting and removing your lenses will become quicker and easier. Your vision will start to stabilize for longer periods, and the lenses may feel noticeable only occasionally. At this stage, your eyes are adjusting, and you should begin to feel more comfortable overall.

By days eight to fourteen, the lenses should feel nearly invisible as your eyes have fully adjusted. Excess tear production will stop, and handling the lenses will feel routine and effortless. You may even forget that you are wearing them on some days.

Signs of Adjustment: What’s Normal vs. What Needs Attention

Let us consider some normal changes you can expect when you start wearing contact lenses. However, if you experience the not-so-normal, you need to talk to your doctor.

Normal changes include:

• Mild dryness after a few hours of wear is common and usually fades with time.

• Occasional lens awareness during screen time is normal. This is because your eyes are still adjusting to the lenses.

• Temporary redness after removing lenses is expected and should clear up soon after removal.

• Sensitivity to wind or air conditioning is normal as your eyes adapt to wearing lenses.

• Needing rewetting drops during the first week is common as your eyes adjust.

However, some signs require attention:

• Sharp pain or stinging with lenses in is not normal and should be addressed immediately.

• Severe redness that does not fade quickly could indicate irritation or infection and needs medical attention.

• Blurred vision lasting more than 30 minutes suggests a fit issue or other concerns.

• Light sensitivity causing squinting indoors may point to discomfort or an eye issue.

• Feeling like something is stuck under the lens could indicate debris or lens problems.

If you experience any of the red flags, consult with your eye care professional immediately.

When to Visit Your Eye Doctor

If discomfort or redness does not go away, visit your doctor. If blurry vision or lens awareness interferes with daily tasks, a refitting may be needed. Always bring your lenses to appointments for inspection.

For more on contact lenses, visit Midtown Miami Eye Center. Our office is in Miami, Florida. Call (305) 576-1700 to book an appointment today.

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