Contact lenses provide a convenient alternative to glasses. However, many contact lens users may wonder whether their lenses can harm their eyes. Specifically, can contact lenses scratch your eyes?
The answer is yes, contact lenses can scratch your eyes under certain circumstances. However, proper usage, maintenance, and care can minimize the risk of scratches.
How Can Contact Lenses Scratch Your Eyes?
Contact lenses sit on the surface of your eye and stick to the layers of tears covering your cornea. Because of the close contact between the lens and your cornea, scratches are possible. Scratches are referred to as corneal abrasions. Here are the most common causes:
Poor Lens Hygiene
Hygiene plays a critical role in keeping your eyes safe. Wearing dirty lenses or failing to clean them properly can introduce particles or debris that get trapped against your cornea. This friction can lead to scratches.
Wearing Damaged or Old Lenses
Over time, contact lenses can develop small tears, uneven edges, or deposits from daily use. These imperfections can come into direct contact with your cornea, scratching the surface.
Improper Handling
Handling contact lenses incorrectly, such as by dragging or poking the lens during insertion or removal, can sometimes scratch your cornea. Accidentally inserting a lens inside-out or placing it on a dry eye without enough lubrication can also cause scratches.
Sleeping in Contact Lenses
Sleeping with lenses that aren’t designed for extended use can dry out the eye, restrict oxygen supply to the cornea, and increase the risk of scratches or more serious infections.
Incorrectly Fitted Lenses
Not all contact lenses are created equally, nor do they all fit people’s eyes in the same way. Ill-fitting lenses may rub awkwardly against the cornea, leading to irritation or abrasions over time.
Wearing Lenses Beyond Recommended Hours
Overwearing lenses deprives your eyes of moisture and oxygen, especially if you’re staring at a screen or in a dry environment. This dryness can make your eyes more susceptible to scratches.
What Are the Warning Signs of a Corneal Scratch?
Corneal scratches can lead to uncomfortable symptoms. These warning signs can range from mild discomfort to more serious issues. Common symptoms of corneal scratches are:
- Sharp pain or irritation in your eye
- Redness and swelling of the eye
- Excessive eye watering or tearing
- Light Sensitivity
- Blurred vision
- Feeling like something is stuck in your eye
If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s crucial to contact a healthcare professional immediately.
What Should You Do If a Contact Lens Scratches Your Eye?
If you think you’ve scratched your cornea, there are some things you can do to protect your eyes while you wait to see a medical professional.
1. Remove Your Contact Lenses Immediately
The first step is to remove your contact lenses carefully. Continuing to wear the lenses can worsen the injury or slow healing.
2. Avoid Touching or Rubbing Your Eye
Rubbing your eye can aggravate the scratch and introduce bacteria, increasing the risk of infection. No matter the discomfort, resist the urge to touch your eyes.
3. Use Artificial Tears
Lubricating eye drops (also called artificial tears) can help soothe irritation, keep the eye moist, and protect the eyes while it’s healing. Follow all dosing instructions carefully.
4. Avoid Over-the-Counter Eye Medications with Steroids
Some eye drops may seem appealing, but products containing steroids can worsen infections or interfere with healing. Always consult an eye care professional before using any medication.
5. Visit an Eye Care Professional
Visit an eye specialist or optometrist if you’re experiencing eye pain. They can examine your cornea using specialized tools and determine whether additional treatment is needed.
How Can You Prevent Scratches From Contact Lenses?
Prevention is always better than cure. By adopting a few best practices, you can significantly reduce the likelihood of experiencing a corneal scratch.
Practice Proper Hygiene
Wash your hands thoroughly before handling contact lenses. Clean and disinfect your lenses using the recommended solution. Never reuse old solution or store your lenses in tap water.
Replace Lenses as Recommended
Whether you use daily, biweekly, or monthly lenses, follow your replacement schedule closely. Old lenses tend to degrade in quality and increase the risk of scratches.
Use Lubrication
If you have dry eyes or work in an air-conditioned or dry environment, use lubricating drops regularly. This will prevent the lenses from drying out and sticking to your cornea.
Schedule Regular Eye Exams
Check with your optometrist regularly to ensure your lenses fit well. Your prescription may change over time, or your eyes may develop subtle changes that require attention.
Avoid Sleeping in Lenses
Unless your lenses are explicitly approved for overnight use, always remove them before sleeping.
Find A Contacts Solution for You
Contact lenses are a safe and convenient way to improve vision when used correctly. While contact lenses can scratch your eyes, the risk is minimal if you follow proper hygiene, handle your lenses carefully, and adhere to best practices.
At Total Vision Golden Hills, we offer eye exams and contact fitting appointments for the whole family. Book an appointment with us today!
