Eye Discomfort: Risks of Contact Lenses and Care Solutions

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Hello doctor, I previously bought bi-weekly contact lenses, but I felt very uncomfortable wearing them.
After a short time, I experienced a prickling sensation and my eyes would tear up.
However, I still finished using all six pairs before switching.
Could this have harmed my cornea and affected my vision? I feel like my eyes might be injured.
Recently, I switched to a new pair with a higher prescription, but my vision is still a bit blurry.
P.S.
One time, I used a small bottle of contact lens solution sold at a convenience store, and it caused me significant pain when I put the lenses on.
Could that solution have damaged my cornea? I'm very worried that my eyes won't heal.

bb, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2004/12/29

Dr. Lin Zhengyi reply Ophthalmology

Hello! If you experience discomfort in your eyes, you should stop wearing contact lenses immediately, as this can lead to corneal injury or bacterial infection.
If the cornea becomes compromised, it can affect your vision.
After rinsing your contact lenses with a cleaning solution, you should use saline solution to thoroughly rinse off the cleaning solution before putting them on.
Otherwise, it may harm your cornea.
Thank you!

Reply Date: 2004/12/29

More Info

Hello! It sounds like you are experiencing significant discomfort with your contact lenses, and I understand your concerns about the potential impact on your eye health. Let's break down your situation and address your questions regarding contact lens use, eye discomfort, and care solutions.

Firstly, wearing contact lenses, especially if they are not fitting properly or if they are worn for too long, can lead to various issues, including discomfort, dryness, and even corneal damage. The symptoms you describe, such as a stinging sensation and tearing, are common indicators that your eyes are reacting negatively to the lenses. If you wore your bi-weekly lenses for longer than recommended, this could potentially lead to complications such as corneal abrasions or infections, which can affect your vision.

Regarding your concern about the care solution you used, it's crucial to use products specifically designed for contact lenses. Over-the-counter solutions, especially those not intended for lens care, can contain preservatives or chemicals that may irritate your eyes or damage the lenses themselves. If you experienced significant pain after using a particular solution, it is advisable to stop using it immediately and consult with an eye care professional. They can assess your eyes for any potential damage and recommend suitable products for your lenses.

As for the clarity of your vision with the new lenses, if you are still experiencing blurriness despite having the correct prescription, this could be due to several factors. It might be related to the fit of the lenses, the lens material, or even the health of your cornea. If your cornea has been compromised due to previous lens use or irritation, this could also affect your visual acuity. It’s essential to have a thorough examination by an optometrist or ophthalmologist to determine the underlying cause of your symptoms.

To mitigate discomfort and protect your eyes, consider the following tips:
1. Proper Lens Hygiene: Always wash your hands before handling your lenses. Use only the recommended cleaning solutions and avoid using tap water or saliva to clean your lenses.

2. Follow Replacement Schedules: Adhere strictly to the replacement schedule for your lenses. If they are bi-weekly, replace them every two weeks, even if they seem fine. Overwearing lenses can lead to complications.

3. Limit Wear Time: If you experience discomfort, try to limit the time you wear your lenses each day. Consider wearing glasses on days when your eyes feel particularly sensitive.

4. Use Artificial Tears: If your eyes feel dry, using preservative-free artificial tears can help lubricate your eyes and provide relief. However, avoid using them while wearing lenses unless they are specifically designed for use with contacts.

5. Consult Your Eye Care Provider: If discomfort persists, it’s crucial to consult with your eye care provider. They can evaluate your eye health, check for any signs of damage, and recommend appropriate lenses or treatments.

6. Consider Lens Type: If you continue to have issues with bi-weekly lenses, discuss with your eye care provider about trying daily disposable lenses or lenses made from different materials that may be more comfortable for your eyes.

In conclusion, while discomfort from contact lenses can be concerning, taking proactive steps to care for your eyes and consulting with a professional can help mitigate risks and improve your comfort. If you suspect any damage to your cornea or if your symptoms worsen, seek immediate medical attention to ensure your vision remains healthy. Your eye health is paramount, and addressing these issues early can prevent more serious complications down the line.

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