A pair of eyes is an integral part of all living creatures. Often, weak vision creates hurdles in performing day-to-day tasks. To combat this problem, science invented treatments for the eyes, eyeglasses, and contact lenses that help individuals see clearly while performing daily chores. Sometimes, to change eye colour, many people use contact lenses, even if they have healthy vision. This blog page will share important information on the uses and side effects of contact lenses.
What are contact lenses?
Contact lenses are small, thin, curved discs that are placed directly on the surface of your eye (on the cornea) to help you see better. They do the same job as glasses do; contact lenses are placed inside the eye instead of on your face like eyeglasses.
The uses of contact lenses include:
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- Nearsightedness (trouble seeing far away)
- Farsightedness (trouble seeing up close)
- Astigmatism (blurred or distorted vision)
- Presbyopia (age-related trouble focusing up close)
Types of contact lenses
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- Soft contact lenses – These are the most common, flexible, and comfortable form of lenses
- Rigid gas permeable (RGP) lenses – This lens type provides firmer, sharper vision for some people
- Daily lenses – They are worn once and thrown away
- Monthly/bi-weekly lenses – These are to be cleaned and reused
- Colored lenses – This type of lens changes or enhances eye color
Benefits of contact lenses
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- Contact lenses don’t fog up like glasses
- They are considered a better option for sports and physical activities
- Offers a wider field of vision
- No frames on your face
Despite having fantastic benefits of contact lenses, they come with a few side effects. Contact lenses side effects can pose a hurdle for users and can become problematic if left unaddressed. Read out how to identify contact lenses side effects and how to eliminate the long-term side effects of contact lenses.
In most cases, contact lenses are safe for many people, but they can cause side effects, especially if they are not used or cared for properly. Here is an overview of contact lenses side effects:
Common side effects
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- Dry eyes – lenses can reduce moisture, causing dryness or a gritty feeling
- Eye irritation or redness – especially if lenses are dirty or worn too long
- Blurry vision – from deposits on the lens or a poor fit
- Eye fatigue – eyes may feel tired after long wear
- Discomfort – lenses that don’t fit well can rub the eye
More serious (but less common) side effects are:
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- Eye infections – can happen if lenses or cases aren’t cleaned properly
- Corneal inflammation – swelling or irritation of the clear front of the eye
- Scratches on the eye (corneal abrasions) – often from damaged lenses or debris
- Allergic reactions – to lens material or cleaning solutions
Things that increase risk
Certain factors increase the risk of contact lens use. Therefore, you must understand how to use it carefully. Things that increase risk include: sleeping in lenses not approved for overnight use, wearing lenses longer than recommended, poor hand hygiene before handling lenses, using old or contaminated lens solution, and swimming or showering while wearing lenses.
How to reduce the side effects of contact lenses?
Basic care can greatly reduce the side effects of contact lenses. The users should: wash and dry their hands before touching the lenses, follow the wear schedule as the doctor advises, clean and replace lenses as directed by doctor, not to share your contact lenses with anyone even if they have a same eye vision, take out the lenses from your eyes if it hurt, eye look red, or if your vision changes.
Some other daily contact lens care tips include:
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- Use a fresh solution every time; never reuse an old solution
- Do not use water or saliva on lenses (it is very unsafe to do so)
- Give your eyes a break, wear glasses sometimes
- Put lenses in before makeup and remove them before washing your face.
- Empty and rinse the case with fresh solution daily
- Let it air-dry upside down
- Replace the case every 2–3 months
Eye health tips
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- Don’t rub your eyes
- Take breaks from screens (20-20-20 rule: every 20 min, look 20 ft away for 20 sec)
- Stay hydrated, as it helps with dry eyes
- Eat foods good for the eyes: carrots, leafy greens, eggs, fish
Contact an eye specialist if you experience persistent redness or pain, sudden vision changes, light sensitivity, or discharge from the eye.
Takeaway!
Science and technology have enabled a person with poor vision to see clearly without glasses through LASIK eye surgery and contact lenses.
Contact lenses are great when used properly, but eye safety always comes first. Use contact lenses carefully to avoid eye problems and side effects. Consulting a doctor is always a good idea when it comes to eye health. Check lens care tips and eye care tips to stay updated.
