Some people who wear contact lenses may experience visual disturbances like squiggly strings or cobweb-like shapes. These disturbances are called floaters. While not necessarily harmful, floaters can be concerning, and many contact lens wearers therefore wonder: Can contact lenses cause eye floaters?
The short answer is no— contact lenses themselves do not cause eye floaters. However, there are several factors associated with wearing contacts that could contribute to the perception of floaters or trigger other eye issues.
In this blog, we’ll explore the relationship between contact lenses and floaters, and what you should know about protecting your eye health when using contacts.
If you’re looking for a reliable place to discuss any concerns about your vision or eye health, CHROMA modern Eyewear Eyecare offers comprehensive eye exams and contact lens fittings to help you find the solutions that you need.
What Are Eye Floaters?
Eye floaters are tiny specks, strings, or cobweb-like shapes that appear to drift across your field of vision. They’re most noticeable when looking at a plain, bright background such as a white wall or the sky.
Floaters are caused by small clumps of collagen or cells inside the vitreous, the gel-like substance that fills the eye. These clumps cast shadows on the retina, the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye, and it’s these shadows that the brain perceives as floaters.
Floaters are a common occurrence, especially as people age. The vitreous naturally becomes more liquid and less gel-like over time, leading to the formation of these clumps. While floaters are usually harmless, a sudden increase in their number or the presence of flashes of light could indicate a more serious condition, such as retinal detachment, which requires immediate medical attention.
Why Do Some People Associate Contacts with Floaters?
Although contact lenses don’t directly cause floaters, several circumstances related to wearing contacts might make you more aware of floaters’ existence. Here are some possible explanations:
- Increased Focus on Vision: When people start wearing contact lenses, they may become more attuned to their vision. The improved clarity of corrected vision can make people notice things they might not have seen before, including floaters. So, in some cases, wearing contacts may just make you more aware of the floaters that were already present in your vision.
- Dry Eye and Contact Lenses: Wearing contacts for extended periods can lead to dry eyes, especially if you’re using them in a dry or air-conditioned environment. Dry eyes can cause irritation, blurriness, and discomfort, which may make floaters more noticeable.
- Improper Contact Lens Use: Improper handling or overuse of contact lenses can result in eye strain, irritation, or infection, which may make floaters more visible.
Underlying Conditions That Cause Floaters
Even though contact lenses don’t directly cause floaters, some of the underlying eye conditions that may lead to floaters may also make it harder for people to wear contacts comfortably. These conditions include:
- Posterior Vitreous Detachment (PVD): As mentioned earlier, the vitreous gel becomes more liquid as people age. This process can sometimes lead to posterior vitreous detachment, where the gel separates from the retina. PVD can result in a sudden increase in floaters. If you experience PVD, it’s essential to consult an eye care professional to determine if contact lens use is still appropriate.
- Retinal Tears or Detachment: In more severe cases, floaters can be a sign of a retinal tear or detachment. This condition occurs when the retina is pulled away from its normal position, and it can lead to permanent vision loss if not treated immediately. Individuals with a history of retinal issues should be especially cautious when using contact lenses and should have regular eye exams to monitor their eye health.
- Uveitis: Uveitis refers to inflammation of the uvea, the middle layer of the eye. This condition can cause floaters, along with eye pain and sensitivity to light. In cases of uveitis, wearing contact lenses may become uncomfortable or impractical, as inflammation can exacerbate eye irritation.
Best Practices for Healthy Contact Lens Use
If you wear contact lenses and are concerned about floaters or other eye issues, following best practices for contact lens care can help keep your eyes healthy. Here are some tips to confirm you’re using your lenses properly:
- Follow Wearing Time Guidelines: Overwearing contacts is one of the most common causes of eye irritation. Make sure to follow the recommended wearing schedule provided by your eye care professional.
- Maintain Proper Hygiene: Always wash your hands before handling your contact lenses, and use the appropriate cleaning solutions to disinfect them. Never use tap water or saliva to clean your lenses.
- Replace Your Contacts as Instructed: Whether you’re using daily, bi-weekly, or monthly lenses, it’s essential to replace them on schedule. Old lenses can develop protein deposits or bacteria that irritate the eyes.
- Stay Hydrated and Use Artificial Tears if Necessary: If you’re prone to dry eyes, using artificial tears or lubricating eye drops can help maintain moisture and comfort while wearing contacts.
- Have Regular Eye Exams: Routine eye exams are crucial for detecting any changes in your eye health, including conditions that may cause floaters. Regular visits to an eye care professional make sure that your contact lenses are still the best option for your vision correction.
Shedding Light on Floaters & Contact Lens Use
In sum, contact lenses don’t cause eye floaters. Floaters are typically a natural result of the aging process or other underlying eye conditions. However, improper contact lens use or dry eyes may make existing floaters more noticeable. If you experience a sudden increase in floaters, flashes of light, or any discomfort while wearing contact lenses, seek help from an appropriate medical professional.
At CHROMA modern Eyewear Eyecare, we prioritize your eye health and vision comfort. Whether you’re new to contact lenses or have been using them for years, regular eye check-ups are vital. We’re here to help you find the best vision care solutions to fit your lifestyle. Schedule your next eye exam with us today to confirm your eyes remain healthy and your contact lenses continue to work effectively for you.
