CONTACT LENS
OVERWEAR, INFECTIONS AND OTHER PROBLEMS
Contact lenses are a popular method for the correction of refractive errors in Singapore.
It can help you have better vision, while avoiding the inconveniences related to the use of spectacles.
However, all contact lenses, whatever the type, are still foreign bodies in the eye. As such, problems related to their usage can occur, and often do!
Contact Lens Overwear Syndrome
All contact lenses, regardless of type or brand, will reduce the oxygen supply to the cornea to a certain extent. While most eyes can tolerate this, the lack of oxygen can be made worse by long hours of continuous wear, or when eyes are closed (eg during sleep).
When the lens is on for too long, the cornea can swell and becomes hazy, resulting in a red, teary and painful eye; vision can also be blurry. This is referred to as contact lens overwear syndrome. The lenses should be removed immediately and the eyes given a break from contact lens wear. Although most do recover within a day, you should seek treatment if the condition worsens, or if you experience repeated episodes of these symptoms.
Giant Papillary Conjunctivitis
(Contact Lens Allergies)
Giant papillary conjunctivitis (GPC) is a common eye complication related to contact lens use and can occur even after many years of wearing lenses successfully. It occurs more often with the use of soft lenses.
The underlying cause of GPC may be due to an allergic reaction to protein deposits on the lens; to the contact lens material itself; or to the contact lens solution.
The symptoms include redness and irritation, itching and mucus discharge, and sometimes blurred vision and light sensitivity. Allergies can also result in the formation of multiple red bumps (giant papillae) on the undersurface of the upper eyelid.
The lenses must be removed and stopped for a few weeks. Our specialist will also prescribe medicated eyedrops to facilitate recovery. Sometimes, a change in the type and brand of contact lens may help, as well as a switch to daily disposable contact lenses. However, if the condition does not resolve, then some patients may have to stop contact lens wear permanently.
Contact Lens Infections and Cornea Ulcers
Contact lens infections and ulcers result from germs (such as bacteria, fungi or parasites) infecting the cornea.
Infections occur when the cornea is unhealthy due to persistent contact lens overwear, or tiny scratches on the cornea. They occur more frequently in users of soft and extended-wear lenses, and more so when lenses are worn overnight. Lenses can also become contaminated by germs if they are not cleaned well or regularly, or if they come into contact with tapwater or swimming pool water.
The symptoms are that of a painful red eye, with tearing and blurred vision. A white spot may also be seen on the surface of the cornea.
Cornea infections are the most feared complication of contact lens wear, because ulcers can lead to permanent damage and scarring of the cornea, and can even result in blindness.
Once a corneal ulcer is suspected, the lenses must be removed immediately and a thorough eye examination is conducted as soon as possible by an eye specialist. Prompt treatment is essential to preserve sight. Our specialists will prescribe potent and specific anti-microbial eyedrops in order to control the infection rapidly. In severe cases, hospitalization may be necessary, for round-the-clock therapy.