Although wearing contact lenses is comfortable and safe, when you don't use them properly, you put your eye he alth at risk and this can lead to a number of complications, including loss of sight.
See three eye infections that require your attention, especially if you wear contact lenses.
Bacterial infection
One of the bacterial eye infections is called bacterial keratitis. The infection affects the cornea of the eyes and causes pain, reduced vision, sensitivity to light and more. There are superficial and deep keratitis.
Appears as a result of wearing contact lenses and when the eye has been injured (then lenses should not be inserted into it).
develops rapidly and requires medical intervention. If left untreated, it can lead to blindness. The bacteria responsible for the development of this type of infection are Staphylococcus Aureus and Pseudomonas Aeruginosa.
Fungal keratitis
Fungal keratitis has symptoms similar to bacterial keratitis such as pain, reduced vision, sensitivity to light.
The risk of developing this infection is increased for those who wear contact lenses, have an eye disease,eye surgery, eye injury, a decline in the immune system. The condition also requires medical attention because it can lead to blindness.
Herpes keratitis
of the eye caused by the herpes simplex virus. There are two main types of the virus. Type one is one of the most common and mostly affects the face. Herpes type two is sexually transmitted.
Therefore, if you have herpes on your face or body, be sure to wash your hands well before touching your contact lenses.
How to reduce the risk of these infections?
Visit an ophthalmologist regularly for eye exams. Always wash your hands thoroughly before removing or inserting contact lenses. Carefully and regularly clean your contact lenses, but do so only with a solution designed for them.
Never wash your lenses with tap or mineral water. If any of your lenses are damaged, replace them.
Lenses have an expiration date. Be mindful of it.
If you are using disposable lenses, (many colored lenses are), do not reuse them.
You shouldn't sleep with lenses.
Store the lenses in the special containers designed for them and in lens solution.
Avoid bathing, taking sauna, solarium, swimming with contact lenses.
If you notice pain, itching, burning or blurred vision, seek medical attention immediately.
