How to Get Rid of a Headache from Contacts: A Comprehensive Guide
Wearing contact lenses can be incredibly convenient, but sometimes they come with an unwelcome side effect: a throbbing headache. This isn't uncommon, and thankfully, there are several things you can do to alleviate the discomfort. This guide explores the common causes of contact lens-induced headaches and offers practical solutions to help you find relief.
What Causes Headaches from Contacts?
Headaches related to contact lenses often stem from a few key issues:
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Dry Eyes: This is perhaps the most frequent culprit. Dry eyes cause irritation and strain, leading to headaches. Contacts can exacerbate dryness by reducing the natural lubrication of the eye.
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Improper Fit: If your contacts are too tight or too loose, they can irritate your eyes and trigger headaches. An ill-fitting lens can also cause blurry vision, further straining your eyes and leading to head pain.
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Eye Strain: Contacts that are dirty, damaged, or improperly positioned can lead to blurry vision and eye strain, resulting in headaches. This is particularly true if you spend a lot of time focusing on screens.
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Allergies: If you're allergic to your contact lens solution or the material of the lens itself, it can cause inflammation and irritation that leads to headaches.
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Infection: While less common, an eye infection can cause significant pain and headache. This requires immediate medical attention.
How long does a headache from contacts last?
The duration of a headache caused by contact lenses varies. For minor irritations like dryness, the headache might subside within a few hours after removing the contacts and using lubricating eye drops. However, headaches caused by more serious issues like infection might persist for longer and require professional medical attention.
What to do if you get a headache from contacts?
The first step is to remove your contacts immediately. Give your eyes a rest from the lenses to see if the headache improves. Here's a more detailed breakdown:
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Rest your Eyes: Close your eyes for at least 15-20 minutes, or even longer if needed. This allows your eyes to relax and recover from strain.
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Use Artificial Tears: Lubricating eye drops can help alleviate dryness and soothe irritated eyes. Use preservative-free drops for best results.
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Apply a Warm or Cool Compress: A warm compress can help relax the eye muscles, while a cool compress can reduce inflammation. Experiment to see which feels better for you.
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Hydrate: Dehydration can exacerbate headaches. Drink plenty of water.
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Over-the-Counter Pain Relief: If the headache persists, consider taking an over-the-counter pain reliever like ibuprofen or acetaminophen, following the recommended dosage.
How to prevent headaches from contacts?
Prevention is always better than cure. Here's how to minimize the risk of contact lens-related headaches:
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Proper Hygiene: Clean and store your contacts correctly following your eye care professional's instructions. Replace them as recommended.
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Regular Eye Exams: Schedule regular checkups with your optometrist or ophthalmologist to ensure your contacts fit properly and your eyes are healthy.
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Remove Contacts Before Bed: Always remove your contacts before sleeping to allow your eyes to breathe and rehydrate.
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Take Breaks from Screens: If you spend extended periods working on a computer or using other digital devices, take frequent breaks to reduce eye strain.
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Use Proper Contact Lens Solution: Use the solution prescribed by your doctor and change it regularly.
When to See a Doctor?
If your headache is severe, persistent, accompanied by vision changes, excessive eye redness, or discharge, seek immediate medical attention. These could be signs of a more serious issue.
By following these tips and prioritizing eye health, you can significantly reduce the chances of experiencing headaches related to contact lenses and enjoy the convenience of clear vision without the discomfort. Remember, consulting your eye doctor is crucial for any persistent issues or concerns.
