Contact lenses offer convenience and freedom from traditional eyewear, but they also come with responsibilities. Improper use or poor hygiene can lead to serious eye health problems, including infections. If you’ve ever wondered what causes an eye infection from contacts, how to recognize the signs, and what you can do to prevent it, this guide covers everything you need to know.
Why Do Contact Lenses Increase Infection Risk?
Contact lenses sit directly on the surface of your eye, creating an environment where bacteria, fungi, and even parasites can thrive if lenses aren’t cleaned and stored properly. Unlike glasses, contacts block oxygen flow to the cornea, and any contamination can easily spread to the eye’s delicate tissues.
Common reasons for eye infections from contacts include:
- Poor hygiene practices (touching lenses with dirty hands)
- Sleeping with contacts in
- Not replacing lenses as recommended
- Using expired or contaminated solution
- Swimming or showering with contacts on
Common Types of Eye Infections from Contacts
Understanding the different infections can help you act quickly if symptoms appear. The most common types include:
- Bacterial Keratitis
Caused by bacteria like Pseudomonas aeruginosa, this infection can progress rapidly and, if untreated, may lead to vision loss. - Fungal Keratitis
Often linked to contaminated contact lens solution or organic debris, fungal keratitis is more difficult to treat and requires prompt medical care. - Acanthamoeba Keratitis
A rare but severe infection caused by a parasite found in water sources like tap water, swimming pools, and hot tubs. - Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye)
While often caused by viruses, wearing unclean contacts can spread bacteria that cause this infection.
Symptoms of an Eye Infection from Contacts
Watch for these warning signs:
- Redness and irritation
- Excessive tearing or discharge
- Sensitivity to light (photophobia)
- Blurred or cloudy vision
- Eye pain or discomfort
- A feeling like something is stuck in your eye
If you experience any of these symptoms, remove your lenses immediately and seek professional care. Delaying treatment can lead to corneal damage or permanent vision impairment.
How to Treat an Eye Infection Caused by Contacts
Treatment depends on the infection type and severity. Common approaches include:
- Antibiotic or antifungal eye drops for bacterial or fungal infections
- Oral medications for severe cases
- Steroid drops to reduce inflammation (prescribed carefully)
- Avoiding contact lenses until the infection clears completely
Never self-medicate with leftover eye drops or home remedies. Proper diagnosis by an eye doctor is essential for effective treatment.
Can You Prevent an Eye Infection from Contacts?
Absolutely. Most infections occur due to poor hygiene or improper lens care. Here are essential tips to reduce your risk:
- Wash your hands thoroughly before handling contacts.
- Clean and store lenses in fresh solution every time (never reuse old solution).
- Replace your lenses as recommended by your eye care provider.
- Avoid sleeping in contacts unless specifically designed for overnight use.
- Keep water away—don’t swim, shower, or use hot tubs with contacts.
- Disinfect your lens case regularly and replace it every 1–3 months.
By following these steps, you can enjoy the convenience of contacts without risking your eye health.
When to Switch Back to Glasses
If you’re prone to infections or find contact care overwhelming, switching to glasses might be a better option. Today, shopping for glasses online is easier than ever. You can browse thousands of frames, customize your prescription lenses, and have them delivered to your door.
For those who love fashion, there’s no shortage of stylish glasses for women in all shapes and colors—cat-eye, oversized, rimless, or bold acetate frames. Glasses can be a practical and chic alternative to contact lenses, especially if you have sensitive eyes.
Are Daily Disposable Contacts Safer?
Daily disposables reduce infection risk because you use a fresh pair every day. This eliminates the need for cleaning and storing lenses, which are common sources of contamination. However, even with daily disposables, you must wash your hands before handling lenses and never reuse them.
What Happens If You Ignore an Eye Infection?
Ignoring an infection can lead to severe complications, including:
- Corneal ulcers
- Scarring
- Permanent vision loss
- In rare cases, the need for a corneal transplant
Prompt action is crucial. If you notice pain, redness, or blurred vision, remove your lenses immediately and consult an eye care professional.
Can Eye Drops Prevent Infection?
Over-the-counter lubricating drops can relieve dryness but do not treat infections. In fact, using the wrong drops can make things worse. Always seek medical advice before using medicated drops if you suspect an infection.
Final Thoughts
An eye infection from contacts is not just uncomfortable—it can be dangerous if ignored. The best defense is proper hygiene, regular lens replacement, and avoiding risky habits like sleeping in contacts or exposing them to water. If you experience any symptoms of infection, act quickly and follow professional guidance.
If you decide contacts aren’t worth the hassle, explore stylish alternatives like prescription glasses. With so many choices available, including affordable glasses online and fashionable glasses for women, you can protect your eyes and stay on trend.
