Conjunctival Edema: Causes and Recovery After Contact Lens Use

Conjunctival edema

Hello, I usually wear silicone hydrogel bi-weekly contact lenses for work.
Last Tuesday, around 6 PM, when I got home and removed my lenses, I noticed that the right lens felt a bit tight, possibly because I had just changed to a new pair on Monday and my eyes were a bit dry at the time.
When I moved the lens to the lower right corner of my eye, I might have pulled a little too hard while removing it.
Initially, there was a slight redness in the lower right corner of my eye, but shortly after, I noticed that the redness increased and there was some conjunctival edema.
I thought I might need to visit an ophthalmologist if it got worse, but around 8 PM, I noticed that the redness had decreased and the swelling seemed to subside a bit, so I decided to observe it overnight.
The next morning, I woke up to find that the swelling had completely resolved and there was no redness, as if nothing had happened.
Now, almost a week later, everything seems normal with no issues.
I do not have dry eye syndrome, and I usually do not have problems when removing my contact lenses; I am careful when taking them off, although occasionally I do experience difficulty removing them.
I have been wearing contact lenses for a long time, but I always remove them immediately after getting home to minimize the wearing time.
This was the first time I encountered such a situation.
Doctor, does this mean my eyes are fine now? Thank you.

Clare, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/08/24

Dr. He Jianxian reply Ophthalmology

Basically, there are no issues, so you can rest assured.

Reply Date: 2015/08/24

More Info

Conjunctival edema, or swelling of the conjunctiva, can occur for various reasons, particularly in individuals who wear contact lenses. In your case, it seems that the edema developed after you experienced some difficulty removing your contact lens, which may have been exacerbated by dryness or irritation. Let's break down the possible causes and recovery process related to your experience.

Causes of Conjunctival Edema After Contact Lens Use
1. Mechanical Irritation: When you attempted to remove your contact lens, especially if it felt tight or stuck, you may have inadvertently caused some mechanical irritation to the conjunctiva. This can lead to localized swelling and redness.

2. Dryness: Contact lenses can sometimes contribute to dryness, especially if worn for extended periods or if the lenses are not adequately hydrated. Dryness can make the eyes more susceptible to irritation and inflammation.

3. Allergic Reactions: Some individuals may develop allergic reactions to the materials in contact lenses or the solutions used for cleaning and storing them. This can result in conjunctival swelling.

4. Infection: Although less likely given your quick recovery, infections such as conjunctivitis can also cause swelling. However, these typically present with more persistent symptoms, including discharge and significant redness.

Recovery Process
From your description, it appears that the conjunctival edema resolved quickly, which is a positive sign. The fact that you did not experience any further redness or swelling the following day suggests that the irritation was likely mild and self-limiting. Here are some points regarding recovery:
- Observation: It is wise to monitor your symptoms, as you did. If the swelling or redness had persisted or worsened, a visit to an eye care professional would have been warranted.

- Hydration: Ensuring that your eyes remain well-hydrated is crucial when wearing contact lenses. Using rewetting drops can help alleviate dryness and reduce the risk of irritation.

- Proper Lens Care: Always ensure that your contact lenses are cleaned and stored properly. Avoid wearing them longer than recommended, and consider giving your eyes a break by wearing glasses occasionally.

- Consultation: If you experience similar symptoms in the future or if you have any concerns about your eye health, it is advisable to consult with an eye care professional. They can provide a thorough examination and recommend appropriate measures.

Conclusion
Based on your account, it seems that your eye has returned to normal without any lasting issues. The quick resolution of the conjunctival edema and the absence of ongoing symptoms are encouraging signs. However, it is essential to remain vigilant about your eye health, especially when using contact lenses. If you encounter any further problems or have concerns about your eye care routine, do not hesitate to reach out to an eye care specialist for personalized advice and guidance.

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