Disposable contact lenses have virtually eliminated the problems previously associated with contact lenses. Frequently replaced, fresh lenses reduce the incidence of eye discomfort and infections.
Problems
From our experience in practice, contact lens problems are, in the main, due to: -
Overwear
- If you wear your lenses for longer than the recommended wearing schedule the oxygen supply may be reduced. This may lead to corneal abrasions, corneal ulceration or infection.
Symptoms can include
Solution
Always keep within the wearing schedule recommended by your contact lens practitioner.
Lens Deposits and Ageing
Protein, lipid and calcium particles can stick to your lenses causing irritable, itchy and red eyes.
Solution
Clean your lenses properly and replace them regularly. This greatly reduces the build up of deposits.
An old lens can be uncomfortable as it develops scratches, deposits or nicks in the lens - throw it in the bin!
Allergic Reactions
This can be due to the lens itself, deposits on the lens or the preservative in some contact lens solutions.
It can lead to redness, itchiness, tearing or discharge and a general intolerance of contact lenses.
Solution
Allergic reactions may be alleviated by removing deposits from the lenses, replacing the lens, changing the lens type or changing solution type.
Lens Comfort Problems
This often occurs when there is an insufficient quantity or poor quality of tears.
Some causes are: -
Hormonal changes or pregnancy are known to cause difficulty in contact lens use in women. Prolonged VDU use reduces rate at which you blink, causing lenses to dry out. Environmental causes e.g. poor air quality or low humidity.
Solution
Lubricating or rewetting drops (ideally preservative-free) can extend the time lenses can be used and improve comfort.
Always consult your optician if any of these symptoms persist.
Remember
"If in doubt, take them out!"
Contact Lens Dos and Don'ts
Do
Follow the wearing schedule given by your optician. Wash and rinse your hands before insertion and removal of lenses. Always use fresh solution. Replace faulty, damaged or dried out lenses. Replace your lens case at least every 3 months. Handle daily disposable lenses as little as possible. Rub and rinse monthly disposable lenses before insertion.
Don't
Sleep with your lenses in. Re-use solutions. Use tap water on your lenses. Wear lenses while swimming. Ignore eye irritations.
You must consult your optician if:
Your eyes become red and/or irritable.
You have reduced vision in one or both of your eyes.
You have any queries regarding your lenses.
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