Contact Lens Care: Avoiding Allergies and Eye Problems

Contact lenses provide a convenient and efficient alternative to eyeglasses, offering enhanced vision and a broader scope of visual perception. But certain users may encounter allergic reactions or eye-related issues due to improper lens care.

Are you tired of the hassle of glasses? Do you want the freedom to see clearly without the frames? Contact lenses can be a game-changer, providing enhanced vision and a world without restrictions. However, like any good thing in life, contact lenses require responsible care to avoid potential allergies and eye problems that can dampen your experience.

However, it's essential to acknowledge that contact lenses, when not handled with care, can cause discomfort, allergies, and even eye infections. These issues can turn your dream of clear vision into a nightmare of redness, itching, and irritation.

Recognizing Eye Allergy Symptoms (in Individuals Using Contact Lenses)

Eye allergies  can manifest when the conjunctiva, the transparent membrane covering the eyes, becomes irritated and inflamed due to exposure to allergens. In the case of contact lens wearers, certain factors related to the lenses may exacerbate these allergic reactions.

Common symptoms of eye allergies include:

• Dryness
• Increased Mucus
• Redness
• Excessive Tearing
• Swollen Eyelids
• Itching

Also read: Suffering from eye allergies? Here's how to find relief

Problem faced while wearing contact lens

While contact lenses are a popular vision correction option for many people, they can sometimes pose challenges or problems. Here are some common issues people may face while wearing contact lenses:

1. Dryness and discomfort: Wearing contact lenses can sometimes cause dryness and discomfort in the eyes.
2. Irritation and redness: Contact lenses may lead to eye irritation and redness due to factors like allergies, improper fit, or deposits on the lenses.
3. Eye infections: If contact lenses are not properly cleaned and cared for, they can increase the risk of eye infections like keratitis.
4. Discomfort during lens insertion and removal: Some individuals may find it uncomfortable to insert or remove contact lenses, especially when they are new to wearing them.
5. Blurred or fluctuating vision: Issues like incorrect prescription, improper fit, or debris on the lenses can result in blurred or fluctuating vision.
6. Sensitivity to light: Wearing contact lenses without adequate UV protection can cause increased sensitivity to light.
7. Allergic reactions: Contact lens wearers can develop allergies to lens materials, cleaning solutions, or other products used with the lenses.
8. Deposit buildup and foggy vision: Over time, proteins and other substances from tear film can accumulate on contact lenses, leading to foggy or hazy vision.

Also check: Exercises to help you relax your eyes: anytime, anywhere

Tips to prevent allergies and eye problems

1. Cleanliness and Hygiene

Maintaining cleanliness and hygiene is paramount when handling contact lenses. Always wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before touching your lenses. Avoid using oily or scented soaps, they can leave residues on the lenses, leading to discomfort and potential eye irritation.

2. Keep Your Eyes Moist

Contact lens wear can sometimes lead to dryness and discomfort. Use lubricating eye drops specifically formulated for contact lens wearers. These drops help keep your eyes moist and provide relief from dryness and irritation. However, consult your eye care professional before using any eye drops to ensure they are compatible with your lenses.

3. Wear Eyeglasses When Possible

Give your eyes a break from contact lens wear by opting for eyeglasses when appropriate. Wearing eyeglasses can reduce the risk of eye irritation and allow your eyes to breathe naturally. It is especially beneficial during activities that expose your eyes to dust, wind, or other irritants.

4. Proper Lens Cleaning and Storage

Clean your contacts regularly, ideally after each use, to remove debris, protein buildup, or other potential irritants. Never use tap water or saliva to clean them, as they may contain harmful microorganisms. Additionally, ensure that your contact lens case is clean, dry, and replaced every three months to prevent contamination.

Also check: 15 Facts you probably didn't know about your eyes

5. Use Cool Compresses on Your Eyes

If you experience eye discomfort or redness while wearing contact lenses, applying cool compresses can provide soothing relief. Use a clean, damp cloth or a gel eye mask chilled in the refrigerator. Gently place the compress over closed eyes for a few minutes to reduce inflammation and alleviate discomfort.

6. Replace Contact Lenses as Directed

Contact lenses have a limited lifespan. Disposable lenses should be replaced according to the recommended schedule (daily, bi-weekly, or monthly), even if they appear clean. Overused or expired lenses can accumulate deposits and bacteria, increasing the risk of allergies and eye infections.

7. Minimize lens wear time

Adhere to the recommended wear schedule provided by your eye care professional. Over wearing contact lenses can lead to dryness, redness, and eye irritation. Give your eyes a break from contact lens wear to allow them to breathe and replenish moisture naturally.

8. Consult an Eye Care Professional

Before using contact lenses, it is crucial to visit an eye care professional for a comprehensive eye examination. They will assess your eye health and provide you with the most suitable type of contact lenses for your eyes. Their guidance will help you prevent potential allergies and eye problems caused by contact lenses.

Also read: Best foods to boost eye health and eyesight

FAQ

How can monsoon raise the risk of eye infections​?

During the monsoon season, ocular allergies tend to increase due to a rise in pollen levels. Pollen is a common allergen that can trigger allergic reactions, particularly in individuals who are susceptible to allergies. Additionally, the moist and humid environment during the monsoon creates an ideal breeding ground for mold and fungi. These microorganisms can further exacerbate allergic reactions in the eyes. Therefore, the combination of increased pollen, mold, and fungi can contribute to a higher incidence of allergic reactions in the eyes during the monsoon season.

Conclusion

Proper care and attention are essential for preventing allergies and eye problems associated with contact lenses. By following these tips and maintaining good hygiene practices, you can enjoy the benefits of clear vision without compromising your eye health. Remember to consult your eye care professional for personalized advice and to address any concerns or issues you may experience. With a little care, you can keep your eyes healthy and comfortable while wearing contact lenses.