New to Contacts

Hi,

I'm new to contacts and have been wearing for about three weeks. I have astigmatism in both eyes, so I'm wearing toric lenses, specifically, the new O2 Optic ones. Every time I wear contacts, the whites of my eyes get red, in varying degrees. Is there a "normal" amount of redness associated with eyes getting used to contacts? My eyes feel quite comfortable, with the occasional dryness, with contacts in and are not itchy or irritated, but the redness is worrying my parents. The only thing my eye doctor did when I mentioned the redness was switch me to another solution, which seems to help a little but did not resolve the problem.

What are the "normal" symptoms associated with new contact wearers? And should I try Acuvue for Astigmatism with Hydroclear?

Also, today is the first time I've had a headache since wearing the contacts (I rarely get headaches). Would this be contact-related? If yes, do I have anything to worry about?

Thank you very much!

[Michael J Kutryb, MD]

I would not expect your eyes to be red at all.  If they are then you need to be seen again by the doctor and look for possible causes including allergies or a poor contact lens fit.  Also, some people just don't do well in contacts mostly due to allergies and sensitivities.  See your doctor right away. The acuvue lens is an option that you can discuss with your ophthalmologist or optometrist.  If redness continues to be a problem, I suggest you definitely see an ophthalmologist if you are not already.

MJK MD