What change would result in increased patient complaints of dry eye symptoms when adjusting soft contact lenses?

Increasing the water content of soft contact lenses can lead to a higher incidence of dry eye symptoms for several reasons. Soft contact lenses are designed to be hydrophilic, meaning they attract water. When the water content is increased, the lens can retain more moisture, which might initially seem beneficial. However, lenses with high water content can also become more susceptible to dehydration, especially in environments with low humidity or when the lenses are worn for extended periods.

When these lenses lose moisture, they can become less comfortable, leading to higher complaints regarding dryness. Additionally, higher water content can alter the lens's overall structure and adsorption characteristics, affecting how it interacts with the tear film on the eye. If the lenses do not maintain an appropriate level of hydration, they may not provide the lubrication needed for comfort, resulting in an increased perception of dry eye symptoms among wearers.

In contrast, options like decreasing lens thickness, reducing the base curve, or increasing the lens diameter typically do not have the same direct impact on the hydration of the lens material or on the tear film stability. These adjustments might affect the fit or comfort, but they are less likely to create the same issues with dryness as increasing the water content does.