Risks of contact lenses
Contact lenses like any other activity poses some risks.It is important to keep your eyes healthy by taking precautions.
An eye infection
Contact lenses can cause eye infections. If the eye becomes red, watery, painful and sore, is swollen and sensitive to light, it may mean that there is a possible corneal infection. The first thing to do in such a case would be to remove the lenses from the eyes and consult an eye doctor immediately. He will judge the seriousness of the situation and begin the right treatment. Corneal infections, if not treated instantly and properly may lead to visual problems.
Foreign body
This usually occurs among hard lens wearers and causes sudden, sharp discomfort due to the foreign body such as dust and grit being lodged between the cornea and the lens. Typically, the tear glands in the eye wash away the lodged particles and if this happens, the discomfort disappears in time. It may leave a scratch, but that too will heal itself without treatment. However, if the eye remains painful, there is a chance that the foreign body has been trapped or lodged itself deep on the surface. This may create an abrasion or a scratch, which may require some first-aid. Contact an eye doctor immediately to resolve the problem before it gets worse.
Stinging or burning
Adverse reactions to some solutions may cause violent stinging and burning. It turns the eye red and sore. Ensure to see whether you may have changed the cleaning solution or used another liquid by mistake. Another common cause maybe traces of food or chemical on your hands that may have entered the eyes while inserting the lens such as pepper, chilly powder or some cleaning liquid. The first thing to do in such a scenario would be to remove the lens and wash the eyes thoroughly with tap water. Ideally, use one of the proprietary 0.9% saline solutions, which will be sterile and neutral.You could also try using comfort or rewetting drops as their smoother more viscous qualities make the eyes more comfortable. If the symptoms persist you should seek medical help immediately.