Contact lens wear can lead to eye irritation or allergic responses. While lenses offer convenient vision correction, discomfort can arise from sensitivities to materials, reactions to solutions, or accumulated deposits. These reactions can mimic other eye conditions, making it important to recognize distinct signs.
Recognizing the Signs
When experiencing an allergic reaction or sensitivity to contact lenses, several symptoms can manifest. These include persistent redness, eyelid swelling, intense itching, a burning sensation, or excessive tearing. Increased sensitivity to light and a foreign body sensation are also common. Blurry vision from mucus discharge may occur, typically clearing with blinking.
Understanding the Causes
Allergic reactions to contact lenses stem from several sources. A common cause involves sensitivities to preservatives or chemicals in contact lens solutions, particularly multipurpose solutions. Ingredients like thimerosal, though less common now, can still trigger reactions. Another factor is the accumulation of protein, lipid, or environmental allergens like pollen, dust, and pet dander on the lens surface. These deposits can act as irritants.
Giant Papillary Conjunctivitis (GPC) is a frequent inflammatory reaction associated with contact lens wear. It often results from the body’s response to lens deposits or mechanical irritation as the lens rubs against the eyelid. GPC is characterized by small, raised bumps, called papillae, on the underside of the upper eyelid. While primarily an inflammatory response to chronic irritation, allergens on the lens can contribute. Less frequently, sensitivity to the contact lens material itself, such as silicone, can occur.
Differentiating from Other Eye Irritations
Distinguishing contact lens-related allergic reactions from other eye discomforts is important, as symptoms can overlap. Dry eyes cause redness, irritation, and a foreign body sensation, similar to allergies, but often include a gritty feeling. Improper lens fit can lead to persistent discomfort, blurred vision, eye strain, and redness from friction or reduced oxygen. Overwearing lenses can also cause dryness, irritation, and redness, sometimes leading to new blood vessel growth in the cornea due to oxygen deprivation.
More serious eye infections typically present with distinct symptoms not seen in allergies, such as pus, severe pain, or severe swelling. Contact lens intolerance involves persistent pain with lens wear, sometimes linked to underlying conditions like astigmatism or chronic dry eye. Consulting an eye care professional is important to determine the cause of eye discomfort and ensure proper diagnosis.
Steps for Management
If an allergic reaction is suspected, immediately remove the lenses. Switching to glasses temporarily allows the eyes to rest and recover. Consulting an eye care professional is important for proper diagnosis and guidance. Daily disposable lenses can reduce deposit and allergen buildup, as a fresh pair is used each day, also eliminating the need for cleaning solutions that can cause irritation.
Changing contact lens solutions to preservative-free options or hydrogen peroxide-based systems can alleviate reactions if sensitivities to solution chemicals are the cause. Proper contact lens hygiene, including thorough cleaning and timely replacement, helps minimize irritant accumulation. For diagnosed allergies, an eye doctor might prescribe specific eye drops, such as antihistamines or mast cell stabilizers, to reduce inflammation and symptoms. Applying cold compresses can also offer temporary relief from itching and swelling.