Understanding Contact Lens-Related Eye Injury

Introduction:

Contact lenses have become a popular vision correction option for millions of people worldwide due to their convenience and flexibility. However, despite their benefits, contact lenses can sometimes lead to ocular issues that range from minor discomfort to more serious complications. Understanding these potential problems is essential for contact lens wearers to maintain good eye health and minimize risks.

What Are Contact Lenses?

Contact lenses are thin, curved, transparent film-like lenses placed directly on the eye's surface to correct vision. They are typically made of soft, flexible plastic material. Contact lenses work by refracting light as it enters the eye, helping to correct common vision problems such as near sightedness (refractive errors making far-away objects blurry), farsightedness (refractive errors making nearby objects blurry), astigmatism (blurred near and far vision), and presbyopia (gradual loss of vision that is focusing near objects). They are available in various types, including daily disposable, bi-weekly disposable, monthly disposable, and extended wear lenses, offering options for different wearing schedules and preferences.

In What Ways Do Contact Lenses Cause Injury?

Contact lenses should be worn in a proper way to maintain harmony. The eye is the most sensitive part of the body, and misusing contact lenses can lead to serious consequences. Contact lens-related injuries can happen if,

• The lenses are improperly inserted or removed.

• Rough handling can cause corneal abrasion or scratches on the cornea.

• Longer wear than the recommended time can cause reduced oxygen supply to the cornea.

• Not washing the hands properly can harm the cornea.

• Using expired or contaminated lens solution.

• Environmental factors like exposure to smoke, dust, and chemicals can irritate the eyes.

• Improperly fitted contact lenses lead to irritation and inflammation of the cornea.

• Failing to clean the lenses and lens case regularly can lead to bacterial contamination.

• Using tap water to clean the lenses can house the bacteria.

• Remove lenses when taking a shower or doing swimming and water activities.

• Rubbing the eyes vigorously can cause injuries.

• Individuals with dry eyes feel the irritation while wearing the lenses.

• Wearing eye makeup and not removing it properly.

What Are Contact Lens-Related Injuries?

Contact lens-related ocular injuries can range from mild irritation to severe complications. The first and foremost complication would be irritation that feels like a grain of sand stuck in the eye and watery eyes. Some common injuries include:

• Corneal Abrasions: Scratches or cuts on the cornea, often caused by improper insertion or removal of lenses, foreign objects under the lens, or wearing lenses for extended periods.

• Corneal Ulcers: Open sores on the cornea, usually caused by bacterial, fungal, or viral infections resulting from improper lens care, extended wear, or poor hygiene.

• Giant Papillary Conjunctivitis (GPC): Inflammation of the inner surface of the eyelids characterized by the formation of large papillae, often caused by protein deposits on the lenses, improper lens care, or wearing lenses for extended periods.

• Dry Eye Syndrome: Insufficient tear production or poor tear quality, leading to discomfort, redness, and irritation, exacerbated by contact lens wear, especially with improper fit or extended wear.

• Corneal Neovascularization: Growth of new blood vessels into the cornea, typically due to chronic hypoxia (lack of oxygen) from tight-fitting lenses, extended wear, or inadequate oxygen permeability of the lenses.

• Allergic Reactions: Hypersensitivity reactions to lens materials, cleaning solutions, or environmental allergens, manifesting as itching, redness, swelling, or discharge.

• Contact Lens-Induced Acute Red Eye (CLARE): Sudden onset of redness, discomfort, and photophobia (sensitivity to light) caused by bacterial contamination of lenses, often associated with extended wear or poor hygiene practices.

• Contact Lens-Induced Peripheral Ulcer (CLPU): Painful ulcers occurring in the periphery of the cornea, typically associated with overnight lens wear, poor oxygen transmission, or mechanical trauma.

How Can Contact Lens-Related Ocular Surface Issues Be Prevented?

Prevention of contact lens-related ocular injuries is essential for maintaining eye health and ensuring comfortable lens wear. By following these measures, contact lens-related issues can be prevented:

• Proper Hygiene: Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water before handling lenses. Avoid contact between lenses and water (for example, in swimming pools and showers), and do not use saliva or water to clean lenses.

• Correct Lens Care: Follow the recommended lens care regimen provided by the eye care professional, including cleaning, disinfecting, and storing lenses properly using lens cleaning solutions. Replace lenses and lens cases as instructed.

• Scheduled Replacement: Adhere to the prescribed replacement schedule for the contact lenses, for example, daily disposables, bi-weekly, monthly. Do not exceed the recommended wearing time to prevent complications associated with extended wear.

• Proper Lens Fit: Ensure that the contact lenses fit properly and are prescribed by a qualified eye care professional. Avoid sharing lenses with others or wearing lenses not prescribed.

• Avoid Overnight Wear: Remove contact lenses before sleeping unless specifically approved for extended or overnight wear by the eye care professional. Extended wear increases the risk of complications such as corneal ulcers and infections.

• Regular Check-Ups: Attend regular eye exams and follow-up appointments with the eye care professional to monitor eye health, evaluate lens fit, and address any concerns or symptoms promptly.

• Avoid Environmental Irritants: Minimize exposure to smoke, dust, pollen, and other allergens that can exacerbate allergic reactions or irritation while wearing contact lenses.

• Protective Eyewear: Wear protective eyewear (for example: goggles or sunglasses) when eye injury or irritation is possible, such as during sports activities or exposure to chemicals or debris.

• Handle Properly: Learn about proper contact lens care and hygiene practices through education provided by the eye care professional. Stay informed about potential risks and warning signs of contact lens-related complications.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, contact-lens-related injury can happen due to a combination of factors such as improper handling, not following proper hygiene, extended wear, environmental factors, inadequate wear, trauma, and tear film abnormalities. These injuries can range from minor irritations to severe infections, ulcerations, and changes in vision. Sometimes, a vision-threatening condition may result in improper usage. Before opting for contact lenses, one must know the usage and handling in detail to prevent the potential risks and side effects. Prevention is the key, and it involves hygiene and adhering to wear schedules. Regular eye exams and prompt medical treatment can help to maintain and preserve eye health.