Redness of the eyes from contact lenses: causes and treatment
About the symptom
Redness of the eyes when wearing contact lenses is a common symptom that can arise for a variety of reasons. First of all, it is worth noting that the eyes may react to contact lenses as foreign objects. This is because the lenses can cause slight irritation of the cornea or conjunctiva, which leads to increased blood supply to the vessels and, as a consequence, redness. Thus, redness becomes a protective reaction of the body to potential irritants.
In addition, redness of the eyes may indicate insufficient moisture or damage to the lenses, which can also be caused by improper care or wearing them for an extended period. It is important to remember that the presence of redness in the eyes can be a sign of more serious conditions, such as infectious or allergic reactions. Therefore, ignoring this symptom is not advisable — it is recommended to consult a specialist if the redness does not subside after removing the lenses or is accompanied by other unpleasant sensations.
Diseases
Redness of the eyes when wearing contact lenses can be a symptom of many diseases affecting both the superficial and deep layers of the eyeball. It may indicate inflammatory processes, infectious diseases, or even complications caused by improper use of lenses. It is very important to pay attention to this symptom, as ignoring redness can lead to serious vision problems and eye conditions.
Some common diseases associated with redness of the eyes when wearing contact lenses include:
- Conjunctivitis (inflammation of the eye mucosa)
- Keratitis (inflammation of the cornea)
- Allergic reactions to components of the lenses or cleaning solutions
- Infections caused by bacteria or viruses
- Dry eye syndrome, exacerbated by wearing lenses
- Glaucoma (increased intraocular pressure)
- Problems with oxygen permeability of the lenses
It is important to remember that when redness of the eyes occurs, it is necessary to consult a specialist for diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Proper use of contact lenses and adherence to care recommendations will help avoid the listed diseases and maintain eye health.
Diagnostics
To properly understand the causes of eye redness when wearing contact lenses, a comprehensive diagnosis conducted by an experienced ophthalmologist is essential. During the first visit, the doctor collects the medical history, clarifying the lens-wearing history, the frequency of replacement, and the conditions of use. It may also be necessary to check for allergic reactions, systemic diseases, or infections that could contribute to eye inflammation.
The next stage of the diagnosis involves conducting a series of tests to determine the condition of the cornea and conjunctiva. The doctor may use special dyes to identify damage to the corneal tissue or to check for dryness of the eyes. Timely diagnosis allows not only for the identification of the underlying problem but also for the prevention of possible complications.
Diagnostic services:
- Computed tomography of the eye
- Ophthalmoscopy
- Keratometry
- Dry eye syndrome test
- Vision acuity assessment
- Tear fluid analysis
- Infection screening
Which doctor to contact
Redness of the eyes when wearing contact lenses can be not only a discomforting symptom but also a sign of more serious diseases. If you notice this manifestation, you should immediately consult an ophthalmologist. This specialist is engaged in the diagnosis and treatment of eye diseases and can also provide recommendations for the proper use of contact lenses. The ophthalmologist will conduct the necessary examinations to determine the cause of the redness and suggest appropriate therapy.
It is important to remember that self-medication in such cases is unacceptable, as improper use of remedies may worsen the situation. Moreover, there are many causes of eye redness, and only a qualified medical professional can determine which one applies in your case. If you have previously used contact lenses and felt discomfort, be sure to inform your doctor so they can take this information into account during the diagnosis process.
- Ophthalmologist (eye doctor)
- Contact lens specialist
- Allergist (in case of suspected allergy)
- Dermatologist (if the problem is related to the skin around the eyes)
- Therapist (if there are accompanying diseases)
Types of Eye Redness When Wearing Contact Lenses
Eye redness when wearing contact lenses can be caused by various factors, each requiring an individual approach to diagnosis and treatment. It is important to understand that this condition can manifest in different forms and degrees, making the classification of types of redness a crucial step in determining its causes. The main types of redness include both temporary and permanent symptoms associated with improper use of lenses or the presence of diseases.
The first type of redness is acute eye redness, which can occur due to a lack of oxygen, causing corneal hypoxia. This often happens if the lenses are worn for longer than recommended or if they do not fit properly. There is also allergic redness that occurs as a reaction to the components of lens solutions or to the material of the lenses themselves. Chronic redness may indicate conditions such as dry eyes or inflammation, which require serious medical attention.
- Acute eye redness
- Allergic redness
- Chronic redness
- Redness due to hypoxia
- Inflammatory redness
Causes of Eye Redness When Wearing Contact Lenses
Eye redness when wearing contact lenses can be caused by several factors. The primary reason may be a lack of oxygen reaching the cornea. Many lenses, especially older models, can restrict the oxygen supply to the eye, leading to hypoxia and, consequently, redness. This condition is often accompanied by discomfort and the feeling of a foreign body in the eye.
Additionally, wearing lenses may trigger an allergic reaction to the materials they are made of, or to the solutions used for their care and storage. In such cases, redness is often accompanied by itching and tearing. It is important to understand that redness can also signal the presence of infection or inflammatory processes, such as conjunctivitis or keratitis, which require immediate medical intervention.
- Corneal hypoxia
- Allergic reaction to lens materials
- Eye infections (conjunctivitis, keratitis)
- Improper hygiene and care of lenses
- Mechanical damage to the cornea
Common Related Pathologies
Redness of the eyes when wearing contact lenses can be a sign of various diseases and conditions related to eye health. These pathologies can range from mild to more serious, requiring medical intervention. One of the most common causes of redness is allergic conjunctivitis, which occurs due to a reaction to the components of the lenses or their care products. It is also worth mentioning subconjunctival hemorrhage, which, although it may look alarming, is usually not dangerous and resolves on its own.
Additionally, infectious diseases such as keratitis can cause redness and discomfort. Keratitis can develop due to improper care of the lenses or prolonged wear. In rare cases, redness of the eyes may be associated with more serious conditions such as glaucoma or uveitis. These diseases require timely diagnosis and treatment, so it is important to pay close attention to the condition of the eyes and consult a doctor promptly.
- Allergic conjunctivitis
- Subconjunctival hemorrhage
- Keratitis
- Glaucoma
- Uveitis
Expert Opinion
Redness of the eyes while wearing contact lenses is a fairly common issue faced by both beginners and experienced users. Experts in the field of ophthalmology emphasize that redness can arise from various reasons related to both improper use of lenses and eye diseases. It is important to understand that redness is a signal from the body indicating that it requires attention, and this symptom should not be ignored.
Among the most common causes of eye redness while wearing contact lenses are allergic reactions to the components of lens solutions, as well as insufficient moisture levels in the eyes. Experts recommend following hygiene rules when handling lenses, as well as keeping track of their replacement timings and storage rules. In case of redness and other unpleasant symptoms, it should serve as a basis for consulting a doctor to determine the cause and prescribe appropriate treatment.
Treatment of Eye Redness Caused by Contact Lens Wear
The treatment of eye redness caused by contact lens wear depends on the underlying cause of the symptom. First and foremost, it is necessary to consult an ophthalmologist to determine the source of the problem. In some cases, simply changing the type of lenses or using moisturizing eye drops may be sufficient. For example, if the redness is related to dryness of the mucous membrane, the use of artificial tears can significantly help. It is important to choose high-quality lenses and follow care and usage guidelines to avoid irritation and subsequent complications.
If the redness is due to an infection or an allergic reaction, a course of antibacterial or anti-inflammatory medications may be required. Antihistamine drops may be prescribed to combat allergies. It is also advisable to avoid wearing lenses in conditions that exacerbate the situation, such as dusty or very humid environments. It is important to remember that while lenses can be a convenient alternative to glasses, they require special care for eye health.
- Rinsing the eyes with clean water or saline solution.
- Using artificial tears for eye hydration.
- Replacing lenses with more suitable ones in terms of material and permeability.
- Using antibacterial or anti-inflammatory medications as prescribed by a doctor.
- Temporarily discontinuing lens wear and switching to glasses.
- Regular check-ups with an ophthalmologist to monitor eye health.
Complications
Redness of the eyes when wearing contact lenses can be accompanied by various complications if proper attention is not paid to their symptoms. One of the most common complications is dry eyes, which can lead to discomfort and persistent itching. If the lenses are not removed in time, keratitis may develop – inflammation of the cornea, which can cause significant deterioration of vision and require more serious treatment.
In addition, the use of contact lenses increases the risk of allergic reactions, which can also contribute to the deterioration of eye condition. Possible infections, such as conjunctivitis or bacterial keratitis, can occur with improper handling of the lenses or non-compliance with hygiene rules. Therefore, timely medical attention and regular check-ups with a specialist are extremely important to prevent complications.
- Dryness and irritation of the eyes
- Keratitis (inflammation of the cornea)
- Allergic reactions
- Conjunctivitis
- Bacterial infections
- Deterioration of vision
FAQ
What to do if eye redness doesn’t go away while wearing contact lenses?
If redness of the eyes does not go away while wearing contact lenses, it is recommended to immediately remove the lenses and consult an ophthalmologist for advice. It is important not to ignore this symptom, as it may be a sign of inflammation, infection, or an allergic reaction. The doctor can perform a diagnosis, determine the cause of the redness, and prescribe appropriate treatment, including eye drops, anti-inflammatory medications, or the possibility of using other types of lenses.
How long can redness of the eyes last when wearing contact lenses?
Redness of the eyes when wearing contact lenses can last from several hours to several days, depending on the cause of this symptom. If the redness is caused by irritation or an allergic reaction, it may disappear soon after removing the lenses and using special drops. However, if the problem is related to more serious conditions, such as an infection or inflammation, the redness may persist longer and require medical intervention. In any case, if the redness does not go away within 24 hours or is accompanied by pain, worsening vision, or discharge from the eyes, it is recommended to consult a specialist to determine the cause and prescribe the necessary treatment.
How can you prevent eye redness while wearing contact lenses?
To prevent redness of the eyes when wearing contact lenses, it is important to follow a number of preventive measures. First, maintain a high level of hygiene by thoroughly washing your hands before putting on or taking off your lenses. Use only high-quality and tested solutions for storing and cleaning the lenses, and adhere to the lens replacement schedule recommended by your ophthalmologist. Second, try not to exceed the recommended wearing time for the lenses, especially if you feel discomfort. Third, avoid exposure to irritants such as tobacco smoke and chemical vapors, and monitor the humidity level in the room. Finally, regular visits to the eye doctor will help you detect potential problems in a timely manner and adjust your lens-wearing regimen.
What are the symptoms of red eyes when wearing contact lenses?
Redness of the eyes when wearing contact lenses can manifest through several symptoms. The main sign is pronounced hyperemia (redness) of the sclera, which may be accompanied by discomfort, itching, or burning. Additional symptoms may also occur, such as tearing, a feeling of sand in the eyes, or increased sensitivity to light. If you notice such changes, especially if the redness persists for a long time, it is important to consult a specialist for timely diagnosis and treatment.