Contact lens wear in dry environments

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Environmental Health

Background:

• Workplace relative humidity influences ocular comfort and contact lens performance.
• Contact lens wearers may experience discomfort and reduced lens function in dry environments.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the relationship between workplace relative humidity and contact lens wearer comfort.
• To assess the impact of humidity on objective parameters like tear breakup time (BUT) and lens deposits.

Main Methods:

• Studied 34 contact lens wearers, measuring subjective discomfort and objective parameters.
• Manipulated relative humidity between approximately 20% and 50% in an experimental setting.

Main Results:

• Low relative humidity (<30%) correlated with significantly shorter BUT and increased lens deposits.
• Short BUT, lens deposits, and restricted lens movement were associated with increased discomfort.
• Subjects with pre-existing short BUT and lens deposits were more sensitive to low humidity.

Conclusions:

• Workplace humidity is a critical factor affecting contact lens wearer comfort and lens condition.
• Maintaining adequate humidity levels can alleviate discomfort and improve lens performance.
• Strategies like enzymatic cleaners, frequent lens replacement, and loose fits can mitigate discomfort in dry environments.