What Happens If You Wear Contacts Too Long? The Risks of Extended Wear
Wearing contact lenses for too long, beyond the recommended timeframe, can lead to a range of serious eye problems. Ignoring the prescribed wearing schedule significantly increases your risk of developing infections, corneal damage, and other vision-threatening conditions. This article explores the potential consequences of extended contact lens wear and answers frequently asked questions about this important topic.
What are the recommended wearing schedules for contact lenses?
The recommended wearing schedule varies depending on the type of contact lenses you're using. Daily disposable lenses are designed to be worn for a single day and then discarded. Other lenses, like extended-wear contacts, may allow for overnight wear, but this still has limitations and requires careful adherence to your eye doctor's instructions. Never exceed the wearing time recommended by your eye care professional. They will consider your individual eye health and the type of lenses you're using.
What are the symptoms of wearing contacts for too long?
The symptoms of prolonged contact lens wear can be subtle at first, making it easy to overlook them. However, early detection is crucial to prevent serious complications. Common symptoms include:
- Discomfort or Irritation: Feeling a persistent gritty sensation, burning, itching, or stinging in your eyes.
- Redness or Bloodshot Eyes: Noticeable redness or bloodshot appearance.
- Blurry Vision: Difficulty focusing or experiencing blurred vision, even with your contacts in.
- Excessive Tearing or Watering Eyes: More tears than usual or eyes that feel constantly watery.
- Sensitivity to Light: Increased sensitivity to bright light, making it uncomfortable to be in well-lit areas.
- Eye Pain: Sharp or dull pain in the eye, a significant warning sign.
- Mucus Discharge: Thick, sticky mucus discharge from the eye.
What are the serious complications of wearing contacts too long?
Wearing contacts for extended periods significantly increases the risk of severe eye problems, including:
- Corneal Ulcers: These are open sores on the cornea, the clear front part of your eye. They can cause significant pain, vision loss, and even blindness if left untreated.
- Corneal Infections (Keratitis): Infections of the cornea can also lead to severe vision impairment or blindness. These infections can be caused by bacteria, fungi, or other microorganisms.
- Giant Papillary Conjunctivitis (GPC): This is an inflammation of the conjunctiva (the membrane covering the white part of your eye) characterized by the formation of large papillae, causing discomfort and blurred vision.
- Contact Lens-Associated Dry Eye Disease: Prolonged wear can lead to dryness and irritation, potentially causing significant discomfort and damage to the corneal surface.
What should I do if I think I've worn my contacts too long?
If you experience any of the symptoms listed above, immediately remove your contact lenses and contact your eye care professional. Do not attempt to self-treat. Early intervention is crucial to prevent permanent damage.
Can wearing contacts too long cause permanent damage?
Yes, wearing contacts for extended periods can cause permanent damage to your eyes. Severe corneal infections and ulcers can lead to scarring, vision loss, or even blindness. The longer you wait to seek treatment for complications, the greater the risk of permanent damage.
How can I prevent problems from wearing contacts too long?
- Follow your eye doctor's instructions carefully: Adhere to the prescribed wearing schedule for your specific contact lenses.
- Practice good hygiene: Always wash and dry your hands thoroughly before handling your contact lenses.
- Clean and disinfect your lenses properly: Use the recommended cleaning and disinfecting solutions.
- Replace your lenses according to the schedule: Don't wear lenses beyond their recommended replacement time.
- Schedule regular eye exams: Regular check-ups allow your eye doctor to monitor your eye health and identify potential problems early on.
Your eye health is paramount. Never compromise on the recommended wearing schedule for your contact lenses. Always consult your eye care professional if you have any questions or concerns about contact lens wear. They can provide personalized advice and ensure your eyes remain healthy.
