When to call your eye doctor about your contact lenses

Contact lenses tend to be safe and comfortable when you keep them clean and follow your doctor's instructions, but it’s important to know when it’s time to raise your hand and ask for help. So, when should you pick up the phone and call your eye doctor? That’s what we’re here to help you figure out.

Medically reviewed on August 11, 2025

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Published on November 12, 2025

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4 minute read time

When in doubt, always reach out

First things first: if something feels off or you have questions, don’t wait — contact your eye doctor. They’re your best resource when it comes to eye health. Even if your symptoms don’t seem urgent, it’s better to have a professional check things out than risk missing a more serious problem. Remember, your eyes are delicate, and prompt attention can save you from discomfort or more serious issues later on.

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Medical reasons to seek help about your contacts

Note that this list is not complete or comprehensive. Always seek the help of your eye doctor any time you are experiencing symptoms that concern you.

1. Pain or discomfort in your eyes

If your eyes are feeling sore, tender, or painful—even just a little—don’t brush it off. Discomfort can be caused by dry eyes, irritation, or more serious issues like infections or scratches. Pain isn’t something to ignore, it’s your body communicating with you. Your eyes shouldn’t hurt, and a quick visit can help sort out the cause.

2. Redness that won’t quit

Red, bloodshot eyes are often a sign that something’s not right. It might be irritation or allergies, but it can sometimes be a sign of infection or other serious problems that need treatment. Always see a professional if the redness concerns you, gets worse, or is accompanied by pain or discharge.

3. You begin to experience sensitivity to light

Sensitivity to bright light can be normal, but if you suddenly become very light-sensitive or it’s bothering you more than usual, it’s worth a check-up. Light sensitivity can be related to inflammation, infections, or other eye conditions that require professional attention.

4. Sudden or persistent blurry vision

If your vision suddenly becomes blurry or cloudy, don’t wait — see an eye doctor. Sudden vision changes can be caused by many things, some more serious than others. Whether it’s dry eyes, an infection, or something neurologic, an exam will help diagnose and treat the problem quickly.

5. Your eyes are more watery than usual

It might seem odd, but watery eyes can sometimes be due to conditions like dry eyes or allergies. If your eye watering is concerning you, seek professional advice. Persistent tearing can be a sign that you have an underlying issue going on, and early treatment can make your eyes comfortable again.

6. Discharge or fluid from your eyes

Any fluid or discharge is a clear sign that your eye needs attention. It could signal an infection or other problem, so don’t delay. If you see fluid or are experiencing any kind of discharge, especially with redness or pain, it’s time for a professional exam.

Wear and care reasons to reach out to your eye doctor

The best way to help prevent eye health issues as a contact lens wearer is to follow the instructions of your eye doctor and take great care of your contact lenses. So if you’re running into issues with things like difficulty handling your lenses, now’s the time to get in touch with your eye doctor and fix the issues before they lead to other problems.

1. Trouble putting on or taking off your lenses

If you find it increasingly difficult to put on or take out your lenses, it could be a fit issue or something else could be going on. Forcing it or rushing it can lead to scratches or irritation. Your eye doctor can help find the right lenses for you and remind you of the best way to handle them.

2. Wanting to switch contact lens solutions

Thinking about changing your contact lens care products? Not all solutions are created equal, and switching without guidance can lead to irritation or infections. Always check with your eye doctor before making changes.

3. Need to use eye drops with your contacts

Many people turn to eye drops to treat symptoms of dryness, but not all drops are suitable for contact lens wearers. Some ingredients can damage your lenses or cause more irritation. If you’re planning to use eye drops regularly, ask your provider about the safest options to keep your eyes comfortable and healthy.

4. Your lens won’t stay on your eye

If your contact lens keeps slipping or falling out, it’s more than just a minor annoyance. It could be due to a poor fit, or something else. Wearing lenses that don’t stay put isn’t just uncomfortable — it could lead to corneal scratches or infections. Reach out to your eye doctor for a proper fit or advice on alternative options.

5. Concerned about contact lens care and maintenance

If your contact lens care routine feels confusing or doesn’t seem to be working as well as it should be, call your doctor. They can review proper contact lens care instructions and help you choose the right contact lens care products to stay safe.

6. Any issues with contact lens supply or storage

Running out of contacts or struggling with your contact lens case? If you’re unsure about how to care for your lenses or encounter issues with contact lens supply, your eye doctor can give you tips on proper contact lens care and maintenance. Regular cleaning, storing lenses correctly in your contact lens case, and replacing supplies on schedule are keys to avoiding problems.

What's next

Prioritize yearly exams

If it’s been almost a year since you last got your contact lens prescription, it's time to call your eye doctor. It's best to have your prescription renewed annually, and this is an opportunity to check on the health of your eyes. Comprehensive eye exams not only check your eye health, they are also able to detect over 270 systemic and chronic diseases including diabetes, cancer, and more.

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FAQs

Frequently asked questions

When should I call my doctor for pink eye?

If you notice redness, discharge, or pain, especially if it’s persistent or worsening, call your doctor. Pink eye can be contagious and needs prompt treatment.

Can I switch to a different contact lens solution?

Always check with your eye doctor first. Some solutions may not be compatible with your lenses or your eyes, and improper use can cause issues.

What if my contact lens keeps falling out?

Stop wearing it and see your eye doctor. They can evaluate if you need a different fit or a different type of lens.

How often should I see my eye doctor if I wear contacts?

At least once a year — but sooner if you notice symptoms like dryness, redness, or changes in vision.

What contact lens issues should I watch for?

Burning, itching, redness, blurry vision, discharge, and difficulty inserting or removing your lenses are some of the issues that warrant seeing your eye doctor.