Are There Special Contact Lenses for Allergy Sufferers?

A. "Don't be so quick to blame allergies," says Thomas Steinemann, MD, professor of ophthalmology at Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland. "For many, the irritation is actually caused by dry eyes." No matter the trigger, often the solution is daily disposable contacts. "Even if you're scrupulous about keeping your contacts and lens case clean, allergens and germs build up, causing discomfort," he says. "By throwing out your contacts daily and using rewetting drops, you minimize exposure." Also smart for cyclists: Wear wraparound sunglasses to block wind, which can worsen your eye problem.