Can You Wear Contact Lenses with Chronic Conjunctivitis?

Can individuals with chronic conjunctivitis wear contact lenses?

Hello, Doctor: I have been suffering from conjunctivitis for about 5 months without improvement.
However, two weeks ago, I visited a clinic and received erythromycin and prednisolone.
After using them, my condition has improved significantly (there is almost no discharge anymore).
However, I still often experience pain in my eyes when I yawn, and there is some discomfort when applying the eye drops.
I believe this is because my condition is not completely healed yet.
I would like to ask: Given the duration of my symptoms, should this be considered chronic conjunctivitis? Before it is fully resolved, can I wear contact lenses 2-3 times a month? I need to wear them for activities, and I have been quite troubled by this.
Thank you for your thoughtful response, Doctor!

LiLi, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/09/16

Dr. Cai Wenyuan reply Ophthalmology

Hello, it is advisable to avoid wearing contact lenses if you have chronic conjunctivitis.
Wishing you safety and health.
Sincerely, Dr.
Cai Wenyuan, Director of the Ophthalmology Department, Taoyuan General Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2018/09/16

More Info

Chronic conjunctivitis can be a frustrating condition, and your concerns about wearing contact lenses during this time are valid. Let’s break down your situation and provide some guidance based on medical knowledge.

Understanding Chronic Conjunctivitis
Chronic conjunctivitis is characterized by prolonged inflammation of the conjunctiva, which can be caused by various factors, including allergies, irritants, or infections. Since you've been experiencing symptoms for five months, it’s crucial to identify the underlying cause. The fact that you have seen some improvement with medications like erythromycin and prednisolone suggests that there may be an infectious or inflammatory component to your condition.

Wearing Contact Lenses
When it comes to wearing contact lenses with chronic conjunctivitis, there are several considerations:
1. Irritation and Discomfort: If your eyes are still experiencing pain, tearing, or discomfort, wearing contact lenses may exacerbate these symptoms. Contacts can trap allergens and irritants against the eye, potentially worsening inflammation.

2. Risk of Infection: If your conjunctivitis is due to an infectious cause, wearing contact lenses can increase the risk of complications. Bacteria or viruses can be transferred to the lenses, leading to further infection or even keratitis, a serious condition affecting the cornea.

3. Lens Hygiene: If you decide to wear contact lenses, it’s crucial to maintain excellent hygiene. This includes washing your hands thoroughly before handling lenses, using proper cleaning solutions, and ensuring that your lenses are not expired or damaged.

4. Consult Your Eye Care Professional: Before making a decision, it’s best to consult with your eye care provider. They can assess the current state of your conjunctivitis and advise whether it’s safe to wear contact lenses. They may also suggest alternative options, such as glasses, until your condition improves.

Recommendations
Given your situation, here are some recommendations:
- Limit Contact Lens Use: If possible, avoid wearing contact lenses until your conjunctivitis has fully resolved. If you must wear them for specific activities, limit usage to 2-3 times a month as you mentioned, but monitor your symptoms closely.

- Follow-Up Care: Continue with your prescribed treatment and schedule follow-up appointments with your eye doctor to monitor your progress. If symptoms persist or worsen, further evaluation may be necessary.

- Eye Care Routine: Implement a gentle eye care routine. Use artificial tears to help soothe irritation and keep your eyes lubricated. Avoid rubbing your eyes, as this can exacerbate inflammation.

- Allergy Management: If allergies are a contributing factor, consider discussing antihistamines or other allergy management strategies with your healthcare provider.

Conclusion
In summary, while wearing contact lenses during chronic conjunctivitis is not outright prohibited, it carries risks that need to be carefully weighed against the benefits. Prioritize your eye health by consulting with your eye care professional and following their recommendations. Your comfort and safety should always come first, especially when dealing with a persistent eye condition.

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