Millions of people wear contact lenses safely every day. But there is a risk of getting an eye infection from them.
The most common eye infection from contact lenses
Keratitis is the most common eye infection from wearing contact lenses. It is when the cornea—the clear, dome-shaped window of the eye — becomes infected. In some cases, it can scar the cornea, affecting your vision. If the cornea is severely scarred, a corneal transplant may be needed to eliminate damage from the eye infection and have clear vision again.
What causes eye infections from contact lenses?
There are a number of things that can cause a contact lens-related infection. Some causes of infection may include:
- using extended-wear lenses
- sleeping in your contact lenses
- having microbes build up under the lens
- herpes virus
- bacteria, fungi, or parasites
- not keeping lenses or cases clean, or reusing or topping off contact lens solution
What are the signs of an eye infection from contact lenses?
Symptoms of contact lens–related infections include:
Some contact lens-related eye infections can cause serious vision loss or even blindness. If you have any of these symptoms, it is important to see your eye doctor as soon as possible.
How do you avoid eye infections from contact lenses?
1. Rub
Rub lenses when cleaning them. Wash your hands before cleaning your contacts. Place the lens in your clean palm with fresh, store-bought solution. Rubbing the lens as you clean it loosens the protein and bacteria that builds up. Even if your solution says "No Rub," you should do it anyway. Studies have proven that rubbing the lenses is one of the best ways to avoid eye infections.
2. Rinse
Rinse lenses in store-bought solution. Always rinse and store your contact lenses in store-bought solution. Homemade saline contains dangerous germs that can blind you.
3. Replace
Replace your contact lens case with a new one at least three times per year.
4. Rest
From time to time, give your eyes a break from your contact lenses. Also, never sleep in your contact lenses. That makes it much more likely for you to get an eye infection.
5. Renew
Get new lenses when recommended. Don’t try to extend the life of your contacts by wearing them too long. Only keep lenses as long as your prescriber recommends. For example, one-month contact lenses should only be used for 30 days after opening the package.
6. Reserve
Make and keep an appointment with your ophthalmologist to keep your eyes healthy. Your ophthalmologist is committed to protecting your sight.