What are contact lens related problems?
Wearing contact lenses can cause a range of problems, from mild discomfort and blurred vision, to dry eye, an allergic reaction, scratches on the cornea, and corneal infection. Some of these problems can be resolved by replacing the lenses with a new pair, or a pair in a slightly different size. To treat any infections or damage to the eye it is important to see an ophthalmologist.
Prognosis:
Much of time when discomfort is experienced when wearing contact lenses, the problem is just mild irritation, but more rarely you could experience a sight-threatening infection that needs immediate medical attention.
Symptoms of contact lens related problems:
Common symptoms experienced when wearing contact lenses could include:
Medical tests to diagnose contact lens related problems:
If you are experiencing problems with your contact lenses, your ophthalmologist or optometrist should be able to provide guidance at your regular check-ups. If you are suffering dry eyes, for example, this will be identified in an eye appointment.
What are the causes of contact lens related problems?
The most common causes of contact lens discomfort are:
Can contact lens related problems be prevented?
Yes, as long as you keep your lenses clean and properly stored, as well as using lenses that are not old, you should not experience problems with your contact lenses. If you are having problems with a certain type of contact lens, there are other options you could try, under the recommendation of your ophthalmologist or optometrist. If you decide that contact lenses are not working for you, you could always consider either wearing glasses or having vision correction surgery (e.g. LASIK or RLE).
Treatments for contact lens related problems:
Whilst many problems will be solved by improving care and use, some people will only find comfort by trying a different type of contact lens, for example, or using special eye drops to prevent dry eyes whilst wearing contact lenses. If you develop an infection, seek medical attention immediately for treatment.
Which type of specialist treats contact lens related problems?
Optometrists would look after your daily use of contact lenses, advising on types and how to look after them. Ophthalmologists would also be able to advise on this, as well as treating problems such as dry eyes or infections.