Is there a way to make my RGP's (hard contact lenses) more comfortable to wear?

Question

I recently began wearing my RGP's again as I can see SO much better and I'm told I look better than with my glasses, so I am giving it a go again. I have an eye disease called keratoconus, so I'm actually supposed to be wearing these, but they aren't exactly the most comfortable. I take fish oil pills daily and they seem to aide in keeping my eyes moist, since before the fish oil, I had to use eye drops throughout the day. I'm just wondering if there are any other ways to make these more comfortable. When I walk around wearing these I feel like I have to squint all the time and I have to wear my sunglasses when I go outside. This might have something to do with my keratoconus, but it's still kinda frustrating. Also, there are times when it feels like a horrible pain in my eye which always seems to happen at the wrong moment, like when I'm walking in a mall and I have to squint until it feels okay again.

Is it going to get any better? I really want to (and need to) make this work, not only for aesthetic value, but for my eye health. Also, the difference between wearing glasses and wearing contacts is like the difference between a rain splotched dirty windshield and a clean, dry, streak-free one. There is a phenomenal change. And yes, these RGP's fit me, I got these in January and previously, my keratoconus had not progressed in 2 yrs, so it's doubtful that my cornea has changed.

Answer 1

Your cornea can change any time, so keep that in mind! I've seen people with Keratoconus lose 5 lenses in the first six months from them supposedly fitting, but then popping out unexpectedly due to eye changes. My first instinct was to say to get remeasured to be sure. It seems like most of your issues are from irritation and/or the wrong fit. There is an adjustment period - probably a longer one with your condition - but, I'd think you'd be used to them by now!

If they ARE the correct diameter and base curve, then just keep them moisturized, like you seem to be doing, and give it more time to adjust. The light sensitivity should go away over time as well.