Even the most experienced contact lens wearers can hit a rough patch. That occasional bit of discomfort might be more than just a bad lens day—it could be a sign that your eye care routine needs a refresh.

Ignoring these signals can lead to red, irritated eyes and even more serious problems. So, how can you tell if your routine is the culprit?

Your eyes are great at communicating when something's wrong. The key is knowing what to listen for. If you're experiencing any of the following, it might be time to adjust your habits.

1. Persistent Redness or Dryness
A little redness after a long day is normal. But if your eyes are consistently bloodshot or feel dry and gritty shortly after putting your lenses in, it’s a clear signal. This could be due to wearing lenses for too long, using an old solution, or not cleaning them properly.

2. Blurred Vision That Comes and Goes
Your vision should be sharp and stable with your contacts in. If you find yourself blinking constantly to clear up your sight, it could mean your lens is dirty, damaged, or simply doesn’t fit your eye correctly anymore.

3. Feeling Like There's "Something" in Your Eye
This sensation, known as a "foreign body sensation," is your eye’s way of saying it’s irritated. A lens with a tiny tear, a buildup of protein, or even a stray eyelash trapped underneath can cause this uncomfortable feeling.

4. Increased Sensitivity to Light
If you suddenly find yourself squinting in normally lit rooms or feeling pain when stepping outside, take it seriously. This can be a symptom of inflammation or an eye infection related to contact lens overwear.

5. General Eye Fatigue
Do your eyes feel unusually tired or achy, even early in the day? This fatigue can be a result of your lenses not allowing enough oxygen to reach your cornea, often because they are old or worn for extended periods.

Don’t ignore what your eyes are telling you. A simple check-up with your eye doctor can pinpoint the issue and get you back to comfortable, clear vision.