Contact Lens Complications

Red eyes from wearing contact lenses?

Here are some possible complications resulting from contact lens wear:

Microbial Keratitis Microbial Keratitis (also called infectious or infective keratitis) is one of the most serious complications, involving bacterial, fungal, or parasitic (e.g., Acanthamoeba) infection of the cornea. It is strongly linked to poor lens hygiene, overnight wear, or contaminated solutions, causing severe pain, redness, discharge, light sensitivity, and blurred vision. Prompt treatment is essential, as it can lead to corneal scarring or vision loss.

Conjunctivitis

Conjunctivitis (including allergic or bacterial forms) can occur from reactions to lens materials, solutions, or poor hygiene. It leads to red, irritated eyes, itching, mucus discharge, and discomfort. Allergic types often relate to protein buildup or solution sensitivity, while bacterial forms stem from contamination. Read more about conjunctivitis here.

Neovascularisation (growth of new blood vessels)

Corneal Neovascularisation involves new blood vessels growing into the normally clear cornea, usually due to chronic hypoxia (oxygen deprivation) from extended wear, tight-fitting lenses, or low-oxygen-permeable materials. It often starts peripherally and may cause redness or reduced lens tolerance, though early stages are often asymptomatic and reversible if addressed.

Giant Papillary Conjunctivitis

Giant Papillary Conjunctivitis (GPC) is an inflammatory reaction on the inner upper eyelid, causing large papillae (bumps), mucus discharge, itching, and lens intolerance. It results from mechanical irritation by lens deposits, proteins, or repeated blinking trauma, commonly seen in long-term soft lens wearers, with an increased risk for wearers with asthma or chronic allergies such as to dust or pollen.

Abrasions

Corneal Abrasions or epithelial defects occur from mechanical trauma, such as a poorly fitting lens, foreign particles, or improper handling. They cause sharp pain, tearing, foreign body sensation, and light sensitivity, increasing infection risk if untreated.

Corneal Infiltrates

Sterile Corneal Infiltrates are small, gray-white inflammatory spots in the cornea without active infection. They often stem from hypersensitivity or hypoxia, presenting with mild discomfort, redness, and photophobia, and usually resolve with lens discontinuation and treatment.

Dry Eyes

Dry Eyes or discomfort from reduced tear film stability is very frequent among wearers. Contact lenses can worsen evaporation or disrupt the tear layer, leading to grittiness, burning, fluctuating vision, and reduced wearing time.

Stye

Contact lens wear can contribute to the formation of a stye - an acute infection of an eyelid gland by bacteria, especially if the wearer has poor hygiene such as not washing hands before insertion and removal of lenses, over-wearing the lenses, or lack of proper lens cleaning.

Preventing Complications

You can play a part in taking care of your eyes and avoiding contact lens complications.

• Proper lens care - following the appropriate methods to clean and store your lenses.

• Avoiding overnight wear - as they can increase the risk of eye infections.

• Regular replacements - not wearing the lenses beyond its' intending replacement period, such as for 2 weeks or a month.

• Buying from reputable sources - getting your lenses from trusted brands and trusted retailers.

• Routine eye examinations - remember to visit your optometrist for regular checks, rather than just repeatedly replenishing it without an examination.

Conclusion

Having good habits can significantly reduce the risks of contact lens complications and allow you to enjoy healthy eyes and good vision.

Should you experience changes in your vision or comfort, you should consult an eye care professional promptly.

Consult with us today