Pink eye, medically known as conjunctivitis, is an inflammation of the conjunctiva, the clear tissue covering the white part of your eye and the inner surface of your eyelid. This common eye condition can be caused by viruses, bacteria, or allergens. Viral and bacterial forms are highly contagious. Given its contagious nature, proper handling and disinfection of contact lenses during and after an infection are important steps to prevent reinfection and transmission.
Why Contact Disinfection Matters
Wearing contact lenses during a pink eye infection can worsen symptoms and delay the healing process. Lenses can trap infectious agents, such as bacteria or viruses, directly against the inflamed eye surface. This creates an environment where pathogens can thrive, potentially prolonging the infection or leading to a more severe condition. Lenses, cases, and solutions can become contaminated. If not properly handled or disinfected, they can become a source of reinfection for the affected eye or spread the infection to the other eye.
Disinfecting Reusable Lenses
Reusable contact lenses require careful disinfection after a pink eye infection. Begin by removing the lenses immediately upon diagnosis and switching to glasses. To clean reusable lenses, use a fresh, unexpired contact lens solution, either a multipurpose solution or a hydrogen peroxide-based system. Always follow the specific instructions on the contact lens solution packaging for the recommended disinfection time. For hydrogen peroxide solutions, allow the required neutralization period (typically at least six hours) before wearing lenses; this converts the peroxide into a harmless saline solution.
In addition to the lenses, the lens case must be thoroughly cleaned daily. After removing lenses, empty the old solution, then rub the case with a clean fingertip and fresh solution. Rinse the case, wipe it dry with a lint-free tissue, and air dry upside down to prevent microbial growth. Never use tap water, bottled water, or saliva to clean or store contact lenses or cases, as these can contain harmful microorganisms like Acanthamoeba, which can cause severe eye infections.
When to Discard Contact Lenses
Certain types of contact lenses must always be discarded immediately if you develop pink eye. Daily disposable lenses should be discarded immediately upon diagnosis. They are designed for single use, and disinfection is not effective or safe.
For reusable lenses, while disinfection is possible, many eye care professionals recommend discarding them and starting with a new pair after a pink eye infection, especially if the infection was severe, prolonged, or if lenses were worn during the acute phase. Bacteria can persist on the surface of contact lenses for an extended period, potentially leading to reinfection even after thorough cleaning.
Always discard the contact lens case, any open solution bottles, and eye makeup (such as mascara or eyeliner). These items can harbor infectious agents and contribute to reinfection.
Returning to Contact Lens Wear
Resuming contact lens wear after pink eye requires careful consideration and professional guidance. Consult an eye care professional before resuming lens wear; they can confirm the infection has fully cleared and your eyes are healthy enough.
Wait until all symptoms of pink eye, such as redness, discharge, and discomfort, have completely resolved. For bacterial pink eye, this often means waiting at least 24 to 48 hours after completing any prescribed antibiotic treatment.
Starting with a fresh, new pair of contact lenses, even if you typically wear reusable ones, is recommended to reduce the risk of reinfection. If you experience recurrent pink eye, your eye care professional might suggest switching to daily disposable lenses, which are more hygienic due to their single-use nature.