5 Side Effects of Contact Lenses You Might Not Expect
Side Effects of Contact Lenses

5 Side Effects of Contact Lenses You Might Not Expect

25 Sep 2024

Many of us rely on vision correction, whether it's to read, work, or just get through our day. While glasses are the most common choice, many people choose contact lenses for their convenience & cosmetic appeal. However, wearing contact lenses isn't always as simple as it seems. And, if you're not careful, you could face some unexpected problems. Thus in this blog, we'll look at five side effects of contact lenses that you might not expect.

Reduced Oxygen Supply to the Eyes

One of the most surprising side effects of contact lenses is that they can limit the amount of oxygen reaching your eyes. Since contact lenses sit directly on the surface of your eyes, they reduce the airflow needed to keep your corneas healthy.

This lack of oxygen can cause your eyes to feel dry & irritated, and can even lead to blurry vision. In severe cases, prolonged oxygen deprivation can cause swelling or other complications.

Dry Eyes

Contact lenses are designed to absorb moisture, but this can sometimes cause problems. If the lenses absorb too much moisture, your eyes can become dry & uncomfortable. This is especially common if you wear your contacts for long periods or in environments with low humidity. Dry eyes can cause redness, burning & discomfort, making it difficult to wear your lenses for extended periods. In such scenarios, using artificial tears can help, but it's important to give your eyes a break if you're feeling persistent dryness.

Increased Risk of Eye Infections

Another harmful effect of contact lenses is the increased risk of eye infections. Contact lenses create a moist environment, which can become a breeding ground for bacteria & viruses. If you don’t properly clean your lenses or wear them for too long, you could develop infections like conjunctivitis or keratitis. Hence it’s crucial to maintain good hygiene when handling your contacts & to avoid sleeping with them in, as this increases the risk of infection.


Corneal Ulcers

Corneal ulcers are open sores on the surface of the eye & they can form due to prolonged contact lens wear or untreated eye infections. This condition is painful & can lead to severe vision problems if not treated quickly. Symptoms may include eye pain, blurred vision & sensitivity to light. To avoid this serious condition, it's important to get regular eye check-ups & follow your doctor’s advice on how long to wear your lenses.

Corneal Abrasions

Wearing contact lenses too long or mishandling them can also lead to corneal abrasions, which are scratches on the surface of the eye. This is one of the more common side effects of contact lenses that can occur if your lenses are dry, dirty, or don't fit properly. Corneal abrasions can be painful & may cause redness, tearing & sensitivity to light. If you suspect that you've scratched your cornea, it's best to switch to glasses for a while & seek advice from your eye doctor.

Final Thoughts

Contact lenses are a convenient option for vision correction, but they come with their own set of risks. From dry eyes to more serious issues like corneal ulcers & infections, it's important to be aware of the potential harmful effects of contact lenses. Hence always practice good hygiene, follow your eye doctor's recommendations & give your eyes the rest they need to avoid complications. And, in case you or anyone you know experience any discomfort or problems with your contact lenses then don't ignore the signs. After all, your eye health should always come first. For expert advice & complete eye care, you can visit Anand Netralaya, where experienced professionals can help you maintain the health of your eyes & make informed decisions about your vision care.

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