Understanding and Managing Contact Lens Discomfort

Contact lenses are a popular and convenient method of non-surgical vision correction, but some individuals may experience issues related to their use.

Discomfort from Contact Lenses

It's not uncommon to feel discomfort while wearing contact lenses. This discomfort can stem from various factors, including:

• Lens-related issues: Problems with the lens design, material, or fit.
• Environmental factors: Air conditioning, prolonged computer use, or central heating.
• Individual factors: Conditions like dry eye, tear film abnormalities, eyelid disorders, and medications.

Symptoms of Contact Lens Discomfort

Common symptoms of discomfort include:

• Foreign body sensation: Feeling as though something is in your eye.
• Reduced lens tolerance: Decreased wearing time, sometimes accompanied by slight eye redness. Symptoms usually improve once the lenses are removed.

Contact Lens Solution Sensitivity

Regular cleaning is essential for lenses worn longer than a day, using various available contact lens solutions. A small percentage of people may develop allergies to these solutions, typically due to preservatives. Allergic reactions can occur after prolonged use.

Other Common Contact Lens Issues

• Giant Papillary Conjunctivitis: An allergic reaction to the lenses causing discomfort, itchiness, excess mucus, lens intolerance, and redness. Treatment may involve a break from wearing lenses and using steroid or anti-allergy drops.
• Mechanical Injury: Caused by damage to the lens, leading to discomfort and potential corneal damage that may require medical attention.
• Corneal Ulcer: Usually, a result of bacterial infection associated with poor hygiene or wearing lenses while sleeping or swimming. If untreated, it can lead to sight loss.
• Corneal Hypoxia: Occurs when the cornea receives insufficient oxygen due to over-wearing lenses. It can result in corneal vascularisation or ulcers, which are sight-threatening.
• Contact Lens-Induced Red Eye: Caused by excessive lens wear, leading to acute redness and pain, requiring a break from lens use until the issue resolves.
• Microbial Keratitis: A severe, sight-threatening infection due to poor hygiene, requiring immediate medical attention. It can result in a corneal ulcer and permanent vision damage if untreated. Water contamination from swimming or showering can lead to rare, difficult-to-treat infections like acanthamoeba, which may cause blindness.

Treatment Options

Many patients seek alternatives to contact lenses due to these recurring problems. Laser eye surgery is a popular next step, offering a quick and simple permanent solution with significant benefits, including:

Advantages:

• Permanent vision correction: Eliminates the need for daily contact lenses.
• Quick procedure: Typically takes about 15 minutes per eye.
• Short recovery time: Recovery can be as fast as 24 hours.

Disadvantages:

• Invasive: As a surgical procedure, it involves operating on a healthy organ, which may concern some patients.
• Higher upfront cost: Compared to non-surgical treatments, though financing options are available to help manage the expense.
• Potential side effects: As with any surgery, there are risks, which can be minimized by choosing an experienced surgeon.

If you're experiencing contact lens issues and wish to explore treatment options, consider making an enquiry or calling 0203 993 3092.

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