For people who wear contact lenses, cleanliness is extremely important because the lenses come into direct contact with the surface of the eye. If germs or dirt get into the eye surface, it can cause severe infections that may lead to blindness. Therefore, we should be cautious when using contact lenses, especially when playing in water during the Songkran festival, as the water used often contains more contaminants than everyday water. But what are the causes of infections for contact lens wearers? Let’s find out.
The reasons why contact lens wearers are more prone to severe infections are
- Normally, the cornea receives oxygen from the air dissolved in tears. Wearing contact lenses reduces the oxygen transmission between the air and the cornea, resulting in less oxygen reaching the cornea, a decrease in corneal epithelial cells, and a weakened corneal immune system.
- Dry eye condition: Wearing contact lenses for many years can worsen the surface condition of the eyes. Tear production becomes poor in quality, causing tears to evaporate easily, leading to eye irritation, burning sensation, and light sensitivity from dry eye syndrome, which can cause corneal abrasions and increase the risk of infection.
- Incorrect contact lens habits such as wearing lenses for more than 8 hours a day, wearing them overnight, using expired lenses, using non-standard lenses without FDA approval, or not cleaning the lenses properly.
Eye care safety when wearing contact lenses
When going out to play water during the Songkran festival, follow these guidelines:
- Do not wear contact lenses.
- Wear glasses to protect against water or powder that may splash into the eyes.
- Be cautious when using high-pressure water guns, as they can cause eye injuries.
- If dirt gets into the eyes causing irritation, rinse immediately with clean water or saline solution (purchased from a pharmacy) and promptly see an ophthalmologist for examination and treatment.
Dr. Mattaya Kwananocha
Ophthalmology Specialist
Eye Center, Phyathai 1 Hospital
