Pupil Granules: Eye Discomfort with Contact Lenses

Q: Pupil Granules: Eye Discomfort with Contact Lenses

Hello： First, it is important to determine whether the lump is located under the eyelid, as lumps that can be felt are usually chalazia. <br>Granules should not typically appear on the pupil; if they do, it is advisable to seek medical attention promptly to check for any underlyi

There are particles in the pupil?

Hello, I have been wearing rigid gas permeable contact lenses during the day for over two years.
Recently, I have been feeling the urge to rub my eyes after wearing them for a while, and there is some discomfort when I touch my right eye.
After removing the contact lenses, the discomfort decreases.
However, I can feel a small particle on my pupil when I touch it through my eyelid.
If I don't touch it, there is generally no discomfort.
I am unable to see an ophthalmologist in the short term, so I am asking here.
Can I continue to wear contact lenses in this situation? What might be happening? How should I handle this?

Nìmíng, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/12/19

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology

Hello: First, it is important to determine whether the lump is located under the eyelid, as lumps that can be felt are usually chalazia.
Granules should not typically appear on the pupil; if they do, it is advisable to seek medical attention promptly to check for any underlying conditions.
If there is discomfort in the eyes, it is generally not recommended to wear contact lenses unless a thorough examination has confirmed that it is safe to do so.
The ophthalmology department at Puzi Hospital in Taiwan is open on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday mornings from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM, and Wednesday afternoons from 2:00 PM to 4:30 PM.
Online responses should only be used as a reference; it is essential to visit a medical facility for proper evaluation.
I hope to have the opportunity to assist you.
Gao Pilin

Reply Date: 2020/12/19

More Info

It sounds like you're experiencing some discomfort with your right eye while wearing your hard contact lenses, which you've had for over two years. The sensation of a small granule or bump on the pupil, along with the urge to rub your eyes, can be concerning. Let’s break down what might be happening and how to address it.

Firstly, the discomfort you're feeling could be attributed to several factors. One possibility is that you may be experiencing a condition known as "contact lens-induced papillary conjunctivitis" (CLPC). This condition occurs when the inner surface of the eyelids becomes inflamed, often due to the presence of a foreign body (like a contact lens) or an allergic reaction to the lens material or cleaning solutions. The "small granule" sensation you describe could be related to the formation of small bumps (papillae) on the conjunctiva, which can occur with CLPC.

Another possibility is that you may have developed a corneal abrasion or some other form of irritation on the cornea itself. This can happen if the contact lens is not fitting properly, if there is debris trapped under the lens, or if the lens has become damaged. The fact that your discomfort decreases when you remove the lenses suggests that the lenses may be contributing to the irritation.

Given that you mentioned the discomfort is less pronounced when the lenses are removed, it’s crucial to take a break from wearing them until you can see an eye care professional. Continuing to wear the lenses could exacerbate any underlying issues, potentially leading to more serious complications such as corneal ulcers or infections.

In the meantime, here are some steps you can take to manage your symptoms:
1. Avoid Rubbing Your Eyes: While it may be tempting to rub your eyes for relief, this can worsen irritation and lead to further complications. Instead, try to gently blink or use artificial tears to alleviate dryness.

2. Use Artificial Tears: If your eyes feel dry or irritated, using preservative-free artificial tears can help soothe the discomfort. These drops can provide moisture and may help flush out any irritants.

3. Maintain Good Hygiene: Ensure that your contact lenses are cleaned and stored properly. Follow the recommended cleaning regimen and avoid using expired solutions.

4. Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of your symptoms. If you notice increased redness, swelling, or discharge, or if the discomfort persists, it’s essential to seek medical attention as soon as possible.

5. Consider Temporary Alternatives: If you have a pair of glasses, consider wearing them instead of your contact lenses until you can get a professional evaluation.

6. Schedule an Eye Exam: As soon as you are able, schedule an appointment with an eye care professional. They can perform a thorough examination to determine the exact cause of your discomfort and recommend appropriate treatment.

In summary, while it may be possible to continue wearing your contact lenses, it is not advisable until you have a clear understanding of what is causing your discomfort. The sensation of a small granule on your pupil and the urge to rub your eyes are signs that your eyes may need a break from contact lenses. Prioritize your eye health and seek professional advice as soon as you can. Your vision and comfort are paramount, and addressing these symptoms early can help prevent more serious issues down the line.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Eye Pain and Discomfort: Causes and Solutions

Hello, I have significant astigmatism in both eyes, approximately 300 degrees. I have been wearing contact lenses for a long time, but recently my eyes have been experiencing pressure, pain, and a foreign body sensation. After consulting a doctor, I was told it was due to allergi...

Dr. Feng Jiefan reply Ophthalmology
Hello: Long-term use of contact lenses can lead to allergic conjunctivitis, which I believe your doctor has managed for you. Additionally, prolonged contact lens wear can cause dry eye syndrome, and the symptoms of dry eye can lead to corneal erosion, resulting in a foreign body ...

Redness Around the Pupil: Managing Contact Lens Discomfort

Hello, Dr. Gao! I have a 10-year history of wearing contact lenses, but due to the pandemic, I have significantly reduced their use. Last October and November, I experienced recurrent eye inflammation and followed my doctor's advice to use prescribed eye drops. I also used s...

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology
Hello Mr. Lin: The redness in your eyes is likely unrelated to your blood pressure; it is primarily due to the dilation of blood vessels in response to irritation, which is a normal phenomenon. Once the irritation subsides, the redness will naturally resolve. When removing contac...

Understanding Discomfort with Rigid Contact Lenses for High Myopia

Dear Doctor, I haven't worn contact lenses for a year. Previously, I used soft lenses, but recently I switched to rigid gas permeable lenses, as I've heard they are better for people with high myopia like me. However, after wearing them for two weeks, I have been exper...

Dr. Zhang Yanrui reply Ophthalmology
Rigid gas permeable contact lenses are indeed healthier for the eyes, but they have the drawback of causing a significant foreign body sensation. Additionally, in the afternoon, a layer of lipids can form on the lenses, preventing tears from adhering properly and leading to blurr...

Understanding Foreign Body Sensation in Contact Lens Wearers

I have been wearing contact lenses for a while, and recently I've been experiencing a persistent foreign body sensation in my left eye, whether I'm wearing the lenses or not. I've confirmed that there is nothing else in my eye. Sometimes the sensation subsides for ...

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology
Hello: The sensation of a foreign body in the eye, whether wearing contact lenses or not, may be caused by several factors: 1. Dry Eyes: Individuals with dry eye syndrome may experience a foreign body sensation both with and without contact lenses. Symptoms of dry eye include d...