Clean, well-fitting contact lenses should be so comfortable that you forget you’re wearing them. If they give you a burning sensation, one of several things could be wrong.

1. Your contact lenses are dirty. Protein deposits and other debris accumulate on contact lenses over time, even if you properly clean and disinfect them. These block oxygen from getting to your eye, causing irritation. It can be fixed by adding a separate lens cleaner to your regimen or by replacing your contacts more frequently.

2. You have allergies. Allergens like dust, pollen, and pet dander can build up on/under your contact lenses making for red, itchy, watery eyes. Your doctor may restrict where/how long you wear your contacts or recommend daily disposable lenses.

3. Your eyes are dry.  Contact lenses can make some eyes dry out. Symptoms include redness, scratchiness, excessive tearing, or a feeling that something is in your eyes. Your doctor may prescribe eye drops and/or vitamins.

4. You’re sensitive to your lens cleaning solution. An ingredient in your contact lens solution could be irritating your eyes. Even if you’ve safely used the same solution for years, it’s possible to develop an adverse reaction to it. Switching to a preservative-free solution may help.

The only way to know what’s making your eyes burn is to get an eye exam. Don’t delay: even simple problems like this can become serious if left untreated.