“How do you know if you have an eye infection from contacts?”
I am a 33 year old female. I wonder how can you know if you have an eye infection from contacts?
3 Answers
Eye irritation redness burning and swelling. Take them off, add antibiotics.
V. Swetha Jeganathan
Ophthalmologist
It is important to recognize the signs of a serious Infection. While most contact lens wearers may experience mild discomfort from time to time, it's crucial to differentiate between common issues and a potentially serious infection. Here are some warning signs that warrant immediate attention from an eye care professional:
a. Persistent Redness and Irritation: If your eyes remain red and irritated even after removing your lenses, it could indicate an infection or another underlying issue.
b. Increased Sensitivity to Light: Light sensitivity, or photophobia, may signal an infection or corneal inflammation. Seek professional evaluation if you experience this symptom.
c. Excessive Tearing or Discharge: Unusual tearing or discharge from the eyes could be a sign of infection, especially if it's accompanied by other symptoms.
d. Blurred Vision: Blurriness in vision, especially if it worsens over time, may indicate an infection or other serious problems requiring immediate attention.
e. Eye Pain and Swelling: Pain and swelling in or around the eyes should not be ignored, as they may indicate an infection or other eye-related issues.
f. Foreign Body Sensation: If you feel like there's something stuck in your eye despite removing your lenses, it's essential to have it examined by a professional.
g. White Spots on the Cornea: The appearance of white spots on the cornea can be a sign of corneal infection, which requires urgent medical attention.
3. What to Do if You Suspect an Infection
If you notice any of the warning signs mentioned above or have concerns about your contact lens wear, take these steps:
a. Remove Your Lenses: Immediately remove your contact lenses and avoid using them until you've consulted with an eye care professional.
b. Contact Your Eye Care Provider: Reach out to your eye care specialist or optometrist promptly to explain your symptoms and seek their advice.
c. Avoid Self-Medication: Do not attempt to self-diagnose or self-medicate with over-the-counter eye drops or medications. This can potentially exacerbate the issue or mask the symptoms, making diagnosis and treatment more challenging.
Conclusion
By following proper contact lens care practices and recognizing the warning signs of a serious infection, you can help protect your eyes and enjoy the benefits of clear vision safely. Remember, your eye health is of utmost importance, and any concerning symptoms should be promptly addressed by a qualified eye care professional.
a. Persistent Redness and Irritation: If your eyes remain red and irritated even after removing your lenses, it could indicate an infection or another underlying issue.
b. Increased Sensitivity to Light: Light sensitivity, or photophobia, may signal an infection or corneal inflammation. Seek professional evaluation if you experience this symptom.
c. Excessive Tearing or Discharge: Unusual tearing or discharge from the eyes could be a sign of infection, especially if it's accompanied by other symptoms.
d. Blurred Vision: Blurriness in vision, especially if it worsens over time, may indicate an infection or other serious problems requiring immediate attention.
e. Eye Pain and Swelling: Pain and swelling in or around the eyes should not be ignored, as they may indicate an infection or other eye-related issues.
f. Foreign Body Sensation: If you feel like there's something stuck in your eye despite removing your lenses, it's essential to have it examined by a professional.
g. White Spots on the Cornea: The appearance of white spots on the cornea can be a sign of corneal infection, which requires urgent medical attention.
3. What to Do if You Suspect an Infection
If you notice any of the warning signs mentioned above or have concerns about your contact lens wear, take these steps:
a. Remove Your Lenses: Immediately remove your contact lenses and avoid using them until you've consulted with an eye care professional.
b. Contact Your Eye Care Provider: Reach out to your eye care specialist or optometrist promptly to explain your symptoms and seek their advice.
c. Avoid Self-Medication: Do not attempt to self-diagnose or self-medicate with over-the-counter eye drops or medications. This can potentially exacerbate the issue or mask the symptoms, making diagnosis and treatment more challenging.
Conclusion
By following proper contact lens care practices and recognizing the warning signs of a serious infection, you can help protect your eyes and enjoy the benefits of clear vision safely. Remember, your eye health is of utmost importance, and any concerning symptoms should be promptly addressed by a qualified eye care professional.
Some symptoms of eye infections due to contact lenses include: blurred vision, pain, redness, sensitivity to light, and/or poor contact lens tolerance. These infections can be sight threatening. Visit your ophthalmologist if you experience any of these symptoms in order to get appropriate treatment.
