Eye Emergencies and Contact Lenses: Dos and Don’ts for Safe Handling

Wearing contact lenses can be a convenient and comfortable way to correct vision, but it also comes with a unique set of risks and responsibilities. Eye emergencies, such as infections, irritation, or injuries, can arise unexpectedly when you wear contact lenses, and it's crucial to know how to handle these situations properly.
 

Common Eye Emergencies Associated with Contact Lens Use

Contact lens wear can increase the risk of various eye emergencies, including:
 

• Corneal Infections (Keratitis): This is an inflammation of the cornea, the clear front part of the eye, which can be caused by bacterial, viral, or fungal infections. Symptoms may include redness, pain, sensitivity to light, and blurred vision.
• Corneal Abrasions: These are small scratches or tears on the surface of the cornea, which can occur from improper lens insertion/removal or foreign objects getting trapped under the lens.
• Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye): This is an inflammation of the conjunctiva, the thin, transparent membrane that covers the white part of the eye and the inside of the eyelids. It can be caused by infections, allergies, or irritants.

Dos for Safe Handling of Contact Lenses During Eye Emergencies

• Remain Calm: If you experience an eye emergency, try to stay calm. Panicking can make the situation worse and make it harder to take the necessary steps.
• Remove the Contact Lens: If you're experiencing any discomfort, redness, or other symptoms, the first step is to remove the contact lens. Do this carefully and gently, avoiding any further irritation to the eye.
• Flush the Eye: Once the lens is removed, flush your eye with a sterile saline solution or clean water. This can help rinse away any irritants or debris.
• Seek Medical Attention: If the symptoms persist or worsen, or if you're unable to remove the lens, seek immediate medical attention from an optometrist. They can properly diagnose and treat the issue.
• Follow Professional Advice: Heed the recommendations and instructions provided by your eye care professional. They will be able to guide you on the appropriate course of action and any necessary treatment.

Don'ts for Safe Handling of Contact Lenses During Eye Emergencies

• Don't Attempt to Diagnose or Treat the Issue Yourself: While it's important to act quickly, self-diagnosis and treatment can often make the situation worse. Leave the medical assessment and treatment to the professionals.
• Don't Use Tap Water: Tap water may contain impurities or microorganisms that can further irritate or infect the eye. Stick to sterile saline solution or clean bottled water for flushing.
• Don't Reinsert the Lens: If you've removed the contact lens due to an emergency, do not attempt to reinsert it until the issue has been resolved and your eye care professional has given you the go-ahead.
• Don't Delay Seeking Medical Attention: Eye emergencies require prompt attention. Delaying can lead to more serious complications, so don't hesitate to see a professional.
• Don't Ignore Persistent Symptoms: If the symptoms you're experiencing, such as pain, redness, or blurred vision, do not improve or worsen after removing the lens and flushing your eye, do not ignore them. Seek medical attention immediately.

The Importance of Seeing an Optometrist for Eye Emergencies

When dealing with an eye emergency related to contact lens wear, it's crucial to see an optometrist as soon as possible. These eye care professionals have the expertise and equipment necessary to properly diagnose and treat the issue, preventing further complications and ensuring the safety of your eyes.
 

They can perform a comprehensive examination, determine the underlying cause of the problem, and provide the appropriate treatment, which may include prescription eye drops, antibiotic or antifungal medication, or even a temporary discontinuation of contact lens wear. Ignoring an eye emergency or attempting to self-treat can lead to more serious conditions, such as vision loss or permanent eye damage.
 

Proper Care and Maintenance of Contact Lenses to Avoid Emergencies

To minimize the risk of eye emergencies, it's essential to follow proper contact lens care and maintenance protocols. This includes:
 

Thorough Handwashing: Always wash your hands with soap and water before handling your contact lenses.

• Cleaning and Disinfecting: Properly clean and disinfect your lenses according to the manufacturer's instructions. This helps prevent the buildup of bacteria and other contaminants.
• Replacing Lenses as Recommended: Replace your contact lenses as often as prescribed by your eye care professional, whether it's daily, weekly, or monthly.
• Avoiding Risky Behaviors: Don't sleep in your contact lenses unless they are specifically approved for overnight wear, and avoid exposing your lenses to water, such as in the shower or while swimming.
• Regular Eye Exams: Schedule regular eye exams with your optometrist to ensure your contact lenses are still a good fit and that your eyes are healthy.

By prioritizing proper contact lens care and maintenance, you can significantly reduce the risk of eye emergencies and safeguard your vision.
 

Prioritizing Eye Health and Safety with Contact Lenses

Wearing contact lenses can be a convenient and effective way to correct vision, but it also comes with a unique set of responsibilities. Understanding the potential eye emergencies associated with contact lens use, and knowing the dos and don'ts for safe handling, is crucial for maintaining eye health and preventing serious complications.
 

If you experience any eye discomfort, redness, or other symptoms while wearing contact lenses, visit Evolutionary Eye Care at our office in Webster, Texas, or call (281) 545-4901 to book an appointment today.