Itching, burning eyes are not just from allergies. Although millions of people wear contact lenses without difficulty, dangerous complications, including conjunctivitis and sensitivity to lens solutions, can cause devastating results, even loss of eyesight. A small problem for a contact lens wearer can turn into a big one overnight.
Conjunctivitis
Conjunctivitis is a common infection of the eye with symptoms that include itching and redness. A form of conjunctivitis called giant papillary conjunctivitis, or GPC, is caused by contact lenses. GPC is allergic or immune reaction to contact lens material. The usual treatment involves medication with steroids and limiting or completely stopping contact lens wear.
Corneal Ulcers
Contact lens wearers are vulnerable to eye problems that can lead to a corneal ulcer. If a contact lens is rubbing against the surface of the eye, it allows bacteria to penetrate the eye and infect it. Lenses are individually designed to conform to the corneas, the front surface of the eyes. The way lenses fit can change over time, due to changes in the eyes or in the amount of tear film, and it is not unusual for an eye doctor to change the size or design of contact lenses during annual or follow-up examinations.
Redness or discomfort after wearing lenses for awhile are signs that a lens fit is changing. Symptoms of corneal ulcers include redness, excessive tearing, pus draining from the eye, blurry vision and pain. An eye care professional should evaluate the eyes immediately if a contact lens wearer suspects a corneal ulcer.
Solution Hypersensitivity
Contact lens solutions are potentially dangerous when used improperly. It is important to use only the specific type of contact lens solution prescribed for particular lenses. Using the wrong type of solution leads to minor problems like irritation but can cause serious damage to eyes.
Using expired solution is also dangerous. Bacteria and other microbes grow in old solution and will cause infection if used on lenses.
Symptoms of problems with contact lens solution include red, itching, painful or irritated eyes or difficulty wearing the lenses.
References
- The University of Michigan, Kellogg Eye Center, Contact Lens Conditions
- Vanderbilt University Medical Center: Vanderbilt Eye Doctors Warn of the Dangers of Cosmetic Contact Lenses
- Dr. Ben Kim, Potential Dangers of Contact Lenses
- U.S. Department of Health: FDA Warns Consumers of the Dangers of Using Decorative Contact Lenses Without Proper Professional Involvement
- Contact Lens Spectrum: Taking the Pulse of the Contact Lens Market, February 2010
