A stye is a common bacterial infection that manifests as a painful red bump on the eyelid, similar to a pimple. It forms when a tiny oil gland near the eyelashes becomes blocked and infected. For individuals who wear contact lenses, understanding when it’s safe to resume lens wear after a stye has developed is important.
Understanding Styes and Associated Risks
A stye, medically known as a hordeolum, forms when oil-producing glands in the eyelid or at the base of an eyelash become clogged and subsequently infected by bacteria, most commonly Staphylococcus. These infections result in symptoms like redness, swelling, tenderness, and sometimes a visible pus-filled bump on the eyelid margin. Styes can also occur on the inside of the eyelid, which may be more uncomfortable.
Wearing contact lenses during an active stye carries several risks. Lenses can irritate the already inflamed eye, potentially worsening the infection or prolonging the healing process. Bacteria from the stye can transfer to the contact lens, leading to reinfection or spreading the infection to other parts of the eye or even the other eye. If a stye ruptures while a contact lens is in place, bacteria can become trapped underneath the lens, potentially causing more serious complications like a corneal ulcer.
When It’s Safe to Resume Contact Lens Wear
It is generally recommended to avoid wearing contact lenses while a stye is present and until it has completely healed. The primary rule is to wait until all symptoms, including redness, swelling, tenderness, and the bump itself, have fully resolved. This ensures the eye is no longer inflamed or infected.
Confirming complete healing involves checking for the absence of any residual bump or tenderness, and the eye should feel entirely normal and comfortable. While a typical stye often resolves on its own within one to two weeks, the exact healing time can vary with its severity and individual factors. Some may heal in a few days, while more stubborn cases might take longer.
If there is any uncertainty about the stye’s complete resolution or if it persists beyond two weeks, consulting an eye care professional is important. Additionally, it is crucial to discard any contact lenses and lens solutions that were in use when the stye developed, as they may harbor bacteria and lead to reinfection.
Maintaining Eye Health and Preventing Future Styes
Practicing consistent eye hygiene is a fundamental step for contact lens wearers to help prevent future styes and maintain overall eye health. Always wash hands thoroughly with soap and water before handling contact lenses. This simple action significantly reduces the transfer of bacteria to the eyes.
Proper cleaning and storage of contact lenses and their cases are important. Lenses should be cleaned with recommended solutions, and cases should be regularly cleaned and replaced according to manufacturer guidelines. Avoiding sleeping in contact lenses, unless specifically prescribed for extended wear, helps minimize the risk of bacterial buildup and infection.
Also, avoid sharing eye makeup and ensure thorough removal of all makeup before bed to help prevent clogged glands that may lead to styes. Regular eye examinations are beneficial for monitoring eye health and addressing any concerns.