Are Torn Contact Lenses Causing Blurry Vision and Foreign Body Sensation? - Ophthalmology

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Contact lens rupture?


If a patient wears two pairs of daily disposable contact lenses that are both torn, is there a possibility of having foreign objects in the eye? Additionally, since there are no available ophthalmologists on Sunday, could this cause blurred vision when wearing them?

Chen Yuansheng, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/03/19

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology


Hello Mr.
Chen: If there are fragments of contact lenses still in your eye, please visit an ophthalmologist for an examination, and they can remove them if present.
The ophthalmology department at Puzi Hospital in Taiwan is open Monday to Friday from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM and Wednesday afternoons from 1:00 PM to 4:30 PM.
Online responses are for reference only; it is necessary to seek medical attention at a healthcare facility.
I hope to have the opportunity to assist you.
Gao Pilin

Reply Date: 2016/03/19

More Info


Wearing torn or damaged contact lenses can indeed lead to blurry vision and a sensation of having a foreign body in the eye. When contact lenses are compromised, they may not sit properly on the cornea, leading to distorted vision. Additionally, tears or rips in the lenses can create irregular surfaces that scatter light, resulting in blurred or hazy vision.
Moreover, if a contact lens is torn, it can also cause discomfort. The edges of a torn lens can irritate the sensitive tissues of the eye, leading to a sensation similar to having a foreign object lodged in the eye. This discomfort can be exacerbated by blinking, as the eyelid may catch on the torn edges of the lens.

If you find yourself in a situation where you are wearing damaged lenses, it is crucial to remove them immediately. Continuing to wear torn lenses can lead to more severe complications, such as corneal abrasions or infections. The cornea is the clear front surface of the eye, and any damage to it can result in pain, redness, and potential vision loss if not treated properly.

In your case, since you mentioned that you were unable to find an eye doctor on Sunday, it is advisable to take the following steps:
1. Remove the Lenses: If you haven't done so already, take out the torn contact lenses immediately. Avoid wearing them until you can replace them with a new pair.

2. Rinse Your Eyes: If you experience discomfort or a foreign body sensation after removing the lenses, rinse your eyes gently with saline solution or artificial tears to help flush out any debris.

3. Avoid Rubbing Your Eyes: Rubbing can exacerbate irritation and potentially cause further damage to the cornea.

4. Seek Professional Help: As soon as you can, schedule an appointment with an eye care professional. They can assess your eyes for any damage caused by the torn lenses and provide appropriate treatment if necessary.

5. Consider Your Lens Options: If you frequently experience issues with your contact lenses, discuss with your eye care provider about the best options for your vision needs. They may recommend different types of lenses or a more suitable wearing schedule.

In summary, wearing torn contact lenses can lead to blurry vision and discomfort due to the potential for corneal irritation and improper lens fit. It is essential to prioritize eye health and seek professional advice if you experience any issues with your lenses. Always ensure that your contact lenses are in good condition before wearing them, and do not hesitate to reach out to an eye care professional if you have concerns about your vision or eye health.

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