Expert Care for Contact Lens Discomfort

While contact lenses are safe and effective for many people, problems can occasionally develop due to improper fit, overwear, dryness, or eye health changes. Even minor discomfort should not be ignored, as continued irritation can lead to more serious complications.

At Richlin Eye, our doctors evaluate and treat contact lens–related problems for patients throughout Los Angeles and Beverly Hills. Through comprehensive eye exams and contact lens evaluations, we help identify the cause of discomfort and recommend solutions that protect both vision and eye health.

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Understanding Contact Lens Problems

Contact lens problems occur when lenses irritate the eye, do not fit properly, or are worn longer than recommended. In some cases, symptoms develop because the eye has become more sensitive or dry over time. Poor lens hygiene, improper replacement schedules, and environmental factors can also contribute to irritation or infection.

Poor lens hygiene, improper replacement schedules, and environmental factors can also contribute to irritation or infection. Even lenses that were previously comfortable may begin to cause discomfort if the prescription changes or the eye’s surface becomes dry or inflamed. A comprehensive eye exam helps determine the underlying cause and identify the safest solution.

Common Symptoms of Contact Lens Problems

Symptoms of contact lens–related issues may include:

  • Eye irritation or discomfort
  • Excessive tearing
  • Redness or inflammation
  • Sensitivity to light
  • Blurred or fluctuating vision
  • Dryness or burning sensations
  • A feeling that something is stuck in the eye

If symptoms persist while wearing contact lenses, it is important to remove the lenses and schedule an eye exam.

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Dr. Bradley Richlin is so good at what he does!!

the office is beautiful. the employees are professional and caring and very good at what they do.

I truly love that there is very little waiting around. my appointment ye...

the office is beautiful. the employees are professional and caring and very good at what they do.

I truly love that there is very little waiting around. my appointment yesterday was at 850 am. I was in the office within a few minutes and out by 930 am with a full exam. Dr. Bradley Richlin is so good at what he does!!

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I am immensely grateful to this office!

I was having an emergency, was in excruciating pain and was getting on a flight next day. I called the morning of December 22 and they were able to squeeze me in at 1 pm. A spec...

I was having an emergency, was in excruciating pain and was getting on a flight next day. I called the morning of December 22 and they were able to squeeze me in at 1 pm. A special thank you goes to Pam, who made that happen. Everyone at the office was so attentive. An assistant saw that I was in a lot of discomfort and offered to put numbing drops into my eye. It ended up being cornea abrasion and it got super irritated. It is day 3 and I am feeling so much better with the drops I was prescribed.

Nothing but good words for incredible people at this office!

Thank you!!!

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Thanks Doctor Richlin. You’re the greatest!!

Solid. Quick, easy, professional, friendly and courteous. Thanks Doctor Richlin. You’re the greatest!!

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I was very happy with the whole process.

I love when specialists are thorough. I have been to eye doctors in the past that just do a couple tests. Dr Glass was so nice and amazing!! Her whole staff is really nice too. ...

I love when specialists are thorough. I have been to eye doctors in the past that just do a couple tests. Dr Glass was so nice and amazing!! Her whole staff is really nice too. When it’s time to get your glasses they have so many great frames to choose from and Guilmer helped me to pick the right ones for my face. I am very happy!!

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Dr Ora is fantastic!

I first met her when I had an emergency and she was instrumental in helping me to recover and making sure all was well along the way. This was my annualize visit. It was great t...

I first met her when I had an emergency and she was instrumental in helping me to recover and making sure all was well along the way. This was my annualize visit. It was great to see her. Her assistant was also great. Thoughtful. Helpful and knowledgeable.

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I always feel “seen and heard” by Bradley Richlin, and before him his father, Steve Richlin. They are both super-informed about eye care and maintain their knowledge...

I always feel “seen and heard” by Bradley Richlin, and before him his father, Steve Richlin. They are both super-informed about eye care and maintain their knowledge on an ongoing basis. I highly recommend their practice for anybody looking for state of the art eye care with a personalized experience.

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They are top notch and deserve all the five star reviews and continued business!!

On time, clean, professional, friendly, knowledgeable. Marco and Dr. Parnell were so cool and fun to chat with. I left feeling well cared for! Shout out to Pam in reception for ...

On time, clean, professional, friendly, knowledgeable. Marco and Dr. Parnell were so cool and fun to chat with. I left feeling well cared for! Shout out to Pam in reception for being incredibly sweet and kind! So happy I discovered this office for my eye care. They are top notch and deserve all the five star reviews and continued business!!

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Dr. Bradley was wonderful.

Enjoyed meeting him. The staff was wonderful and very helpful

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Top marks for all concerned

Dr. Bradley R. Was direct and clear. He explained all the steps of my annual checkup and what needed to be done (and not needed mostly). The support staff was all excellent. Top...

Dr. Bradley R. Was direct and clear. He explained all the steps of my annual checkup and what needed to be done (and not needed mostly). The support staff was all excellent. Top marks for all concerned

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The best OD and new Rx experience I have ever had!

The staff was very friend and respectful. They explained everything. I did not feel rushed. Edwin was so helpful with getting my new frames.

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Best healthcare practice in LA.

Always excellent service. Never rushed. Best healthcare practice in LA.

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Lovely staff, wonderful service.

Dr. Bradley is amazing in explaiining complicate matters in simple terms.

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Dr. Richlin does a great job!

He listens attentively and allows plenty of time for the patient to talk about their concerns. his patient and respectful manner is matched by his remarkable expertise.

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My visit was wonderful.

My visit was wonderful. I was treated with such kindness. The staff was great. Two staff members ASIA and Veronica were outstanding. And of course Dr. Bradley Richlin was awesom...

My visit was wonderful. I was treated with such kindness. The staff was great. Two staff members ASIA and Veronica were outstanding. And of course Dr. Bradley Richlin was awesome. Thank you so much. Jewell Esteen.

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Dr Bradley Richlen was amazing

Kind, took his time to solve the issue.

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This was the best service I have ever received from an eye doctor, or perhaps any doctor.

Dr. Ora Esfahani was very attentive, made sure I was safe and checked on me several times during the day. Everyone else in the office was friendly and helpful as well.

Dr. Ora Esfahani was very attentive, made sure I was safe and checked on me several times during the day. Everyone else in the office was friendly and helpful as well.

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Love Dr Richlin and his staff.

Professional, knowledgeable, compassionate, thorough. Everything one would hope for in a doctor can be found here.

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I highly recommend this practice!

In over 30 years of wearing glasses and visiting various doctors, I’ve never experienced a more patient-friendly office. The staff is incredibly welcoming and skilled, and...

In over 30 years of wearing glasses and visiting various doctors, I’ve never experienced a more patient-friendly office. The staff is incredibly welcoming and skilled, and Dr. B. Richlin consistently takes the time to listen and address all my concerns. I highly recommend this practice!

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Couldn’t ask for a better experience from beginning to end.

Parking for the office is quick and easy. As well as free with validation. The staff is professional and friendly from the moment you walk in. All the latest equipment make for ...

Parking for the office is quick and easy. As well as free with validation. The staff is professional and friendly from the moment you walk in. All the latest equipment make for a fast and quick exam. Couldn’t ask for a better experience from beginning to end.

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Dr Esfahani was very thorough, patient, and a good listener.

She explained everything well. Asked good questions and had genuine interest.

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Dr. Richland is by far the most thorough and kind position I have ever been with.

I have been with him over 30 years and never disappointed. His staff is professional and I would recommend him to anybody and everybody.

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What a super experience with my first appointment with Dr Bradley Richlin!

I was supplied with all the proper information and explanation of their procedures... helpful! The visit was extremely pleasant from the first moments to the very end. The entir...

I was supplied with all the proper information and explanation of their procedures... helpful! The visit was extremely pleasant from the first moments to the very end. The entire team was friendly and professional... felt they had made me comfortable and totally at ease. ...also their equipment and technical expertise were quite impressive! Thank you again.

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Dr. Esfahani is always great.

Thorough, great personality, always asks if you have any questions.

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I can't thank Dr Peyton and her team enough for the excellent care and thorough eye exam.

Each step was explained putting me at ease. i was asked if I had any questions/concerns. I left my appointment with confidence that my eye care is in the best hands. I am so hap...

Each step was explained putting me at ease. i was asked if I had any questions/concerns. I left my appointment with confidence that my eye care is in the best hands. I am so happy that Dr Peyton is my Doctor!

The office is very well run and there was no wait time. I was ushered in to a very clean, orderly exam room. I am very happy with Richlin Eye Associates from start to finish. Beautiful selection of frames as well.

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They're the best!

Efficient, caring, thorough, and knowledgeable--even at a very busy time! Quite honestly, this is the same quality I've had for the many years I've been a patient here. The offi...

Efficient, caring, thorough, and knowledgeable--even at a very busy time! Quite honestly, this is the same quality I've had for the many years I've been a patient here. The office provides many services that go beyond those of other optometrists and refers patients to specialists when it can't handle an issue. They're the best!

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What Causes Contact Lens Problems?

Several factors can contribute to contact lens discomfort or complications. One of the most common causes is an improper lens fit, which can prevent the lens from moving correctly on the eye. Overwearing lenses or failing to follow the recommended replacement schedule can also lead to irritation or infection.

Dry eye syndrome, seasonal allergies, and environmental conditions such as wind or dry air may also make contact lenses uncomfortable. In some cases, contact lens solutions or improper cleaning techniques can contribute to irritation. Identifying the exact cause allows the doctor to recommend adjustments that restore comfort and protect eye health.

How Contact Lens Problems Are Diagnosed

Diagnosing contact lens problems begins with a comprehensive eye examination. During your visit, our doctors evaluate the health of the eye and assess how your contact lenses interact with the eye’s surface. Testing may include:

    Contact Lens Fit Evaluation

    The doctor examines how the lenses sit on the eye and whether they move properly during blinking.

    Ocular Surface Examination

    The surface of the eye is evaluated for dryness, irritation, or signs of infection.

    Tear Film Assessment

    Testing may be performed to determine whether dry eye is contributing to discomfort.

    Prescription Verification

    Vision and lens prescription are checked to ensure optimal clarity and comfort.

    These tests help identify the cause of symptoms and guide the most appropriate treatment.

    Treatment Options for Contact Lens Problems

    Treatment depends on the underlying cause of the problem. In many cases, adjusting the contact lens prescription or switching to a different lens material or design can significantly improve comfort. Some patients benefit from specialty contact lenses designed to improve oxygen flow or moisture retention.

    If dryness or allergies are contributing to discomfort, treatment may include lubricating eye drops or medications to improve tear quality. In situations where the eye is irritated or inflamed, patients may be advised to discontinue contact lens wear while the eye heals temporarily.

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    When to See an Eye Doctor

    Contact lens discomfort should never be ignored, especially if symptoms persist after removing your lenses. You should schedule an eye exam if you experience:

    • Persistent eye redness or irritation
    • Pain or sensitivity to light
    • Blurred vision while wearing lenses
    • Discharge from the eye
    • Difficulty tolerating contact lenses that were previously comfortable

    Prompt evaluation helps prevent more serious complications and protects long-term eye health.

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    Why Choose Richlin Eye?

    Richlin Eye provides comprehensive contact lens evaluations and treatment for lens-related eye problems.

    • A Family Legacy of Eye Care Since 1983: Richlin Eye has served generations of patients throughout Los Angeles with trusted, relationship-focused eye care.
    • Expertise in Specialty Contact Lenses: Our doctors are experienced in fitting advanced contact lenses for patients with complex vision needs.
    • Advanced Diagnostic Technology: Modern diagnostic tools allow us to evaluate eye health and identify the cause of contact lens discomfort.
    • Trusted by Patients Across Los Angeles: Richlin Eye has earned the highest number of five-star Google reviews of any optometry practice in Los Angeles.

    Frequently Asked Questions About Contact Lens Problems

    Why do my contact lenses suddenly feel uncomfortable?

    Discomfort may occur due to dry eyes, changes in your prescription, lens wear schedule, or irritation on the eye’s surface.

    Should I stop wearing my contacts if my eye is irritated?

    Yes. Removing your lenses and scheduling an eye exam helps prevent further irritation or infection.

    Can contact lenses cause eye infections?

    Improper lens hygiene, overwear, or sleeping in lenses when not recommended can increase the risk of infection.

    Can dry eyes make contact lenses uncomfortable?

    Yes. Dry eye syndrome is a common reason for contact lens discomfort.

    How often should contact lenses be replaced?

    Replacement schedules vary depending on the type of lenses prescribed, and it’s important to follow your doctor’s recommendations.

    Can I switch to a different type of contact lens if I have problems?

    Yes. Many patients find improved comfort by switching to a different lens material or design recommended by their doctor.

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