Did you know that around 1 in 500 contact lens users develop an eye infection each year? That’s a startling statistic, especially considering the widespread use of contact lenses. Millions of people rely on contacts for vision correction, but many overlook crucial guidelines about wear times. Exceeding recommended schedules can lead to significant health risks.

Understanding Contact Lens Wear Schedules

Contact lenses come with specific wear schedules. These can vary widely:

  • Daily wear: This type can be used for a maximum of 14-16 hours a day per the guidelines.
  • Extended wear: Designed for longer use, these can be worn continuously for up to 30 days under professional supervision.

Statistics show that 28% of lens wearers admit to sleeping with their contacts regularly, risking their eye health.

Overwearing contact lenses can lead to several serious eye health issues. Here’s what you need to know about the risks and why considering an alternative like Ortho-K might be a wise choice.

Oxygen Deprivation (Hypoxia)

When you wear contact lenses for extended periods, they can block the flow of oxygen to your cornea. This reduced oxygen supply can lead to hypoxia, which makes the cornea swell and turn opaque, significantly reducing your vision. Long-term oxygen deprivation can result in corneal neovascularization, where new blood vessels grow into the cornea trying to increase oxygen supply. These vessels can cloud your vision and create long-lasting damage.

Dry Eyes

Wearing contact lenses too long can disrupt your natural tear film, leading to dry eye syndrome. This condition is characterized by a persistent sensation of dryness, accompanied by itching, burning, and red eyes. Over time, dry eyes can cause more serious complications, such as increased risk of eye infections and corneal abrasion from the lenses sticking to the eye.

Infections (Keratitis)

Extended contact lens wear increases your risk of keratitis, an infection of the cornea. Bacteria, fungi, or amoebas can infiltrate small abrasions on the eye’s surface, which are more likely when lenses are overworn. Symptoms include severe pain, redness, blurred vision, and light sensitivity. If untreated, keratitis can lead to corneal ulcers and permanent vision loss.

Corneal Neovascularization

This condition occurs when inadequate oxygen supply prompts the growth of new blood vessels into the cornea. These vessels can interfere with vision and complicate future surgical procedures like corneal transplants. Corneal neovascularization is often irreversible and can lead to significant vision impairment.

Giant Papillary Conjunctivitis (GPC)

GPC is an allergic reaction to protein deposits on contact lenses or to the lenses themselves, characterized by large bumps or papillae on the underside of the eyelids. Symptoms include itching, excessive mucus production, and a heavy sensation in the eyelids. Repeated irritation from GPC can lead to thickening of the eyelid lining and permanent discomfort when wearing contacts.

A Safer Alternative: Ortho-K

For those experiencing adverse effects from daily contact lens use, Orthokeratology (Ortho-K) offers a safer alternative. By wearing these specially designed lenses overnight, your cornea is gently reshaped to correct vision for the following day. This method significantly reduces the risk of the complications associated with traditional contact lenses and is an effective treatment for myopia control.

Benefits of Ortho-K include:

  • No Daytime Eyewear: Enjoy clear vision all day without the need for glasses or contacts.
  • Reduced Complications: Lower risk of infections and dry eyes since the lenses are only worn at night.
  • Myopia Control: Particularly effective in slowing down the progression of nearsightedness in children.
  • Non-Invasive: Unlike surgical options, Ortho-K is reversible and can be adjusted as your vision changes or if you choose to stop treatment.

Consulting with a qualified optometrist can provide you with personalized information and help determine if Ortho-K is right for you. If you’re interested, consider visiting our expert optometrists at Eye Philosophy for an Ortho-K consultation to explore this innovative vision correction method further.

Regular Eye Exams

Routine eye checks are essential. Your eye care professional can provide tailored advice and ensure your eyes remain healthy.

Conclusion

Overwearing contact lenses presents severe risks like infections, dry eye, and long-term vision problems. It’s vital to use them responsibly and follow guidelines diligently. Prioritizing your eye health is a must. For optimal safety, consult your eye care professional regularly and discuss any concerns you have. Your eyesight is worth the care.

Ready to ensure your vision and eye health are at their best? Visit us at Eye Philosophy, call 03 9397 5895 to make an appointment, or book online today! Your eyes deserve the best care.

For a comprehensive understanding of contact lens safety and the potential risks of overwearing them, consider visiting the American Academy of Ophthalmology’s page on contact lens care at American Academy of Ophthalmology – Contact Lens Care.