Causes of Red Eyes From Contacts

If you develop red eyes while wearing contact lenses, consider it a warning sign. While a contact lens may seem small and harmless, you must keep in mind that it is a foreign body resting on the surface of your eye. If your eyes turn red while wearing your contacts, it may mean you are simply overwearing them. However, there are many conditions that can cause increased eye redness while wearing contacts.

Here are some reasons why your contacts may be causing red eyes:

Giant Papillary Conjunctivitis: Giant papillary conjunctivitis (GPC) is a type of inflammation caused by having a foreign body (contact lens) in the eye. GPC may make your eyes red and itchy, and cause your contact lenses to move around on your eyes.

 

Contact Lens Induced Red Eye (C.L.I.R.E): C.L.A.R.E. is a reaction to the toxins that normal bacteria create in your eyes. It is caused by bacteria. C.L.A.R.E. is found more commonly in patients who take long naps or sleep in their contact lenses. These Toxins can create a very unhappy red eye.

 

Contact Lens Solution Use: If your eyes are red, you may have an allergy to the disinfecting contact lens solution you are using. An allergy can develop at any time, even if you have used a particular brand of solution for several years.

 

Eye Allergies: People who have allergies sometimes have a difficult time wearing contact lenses.

Constant itching, eye rubbing and tearing caused by allergies can make you miserable on their own, having a contact lens in your eye can exacerbate your eye allergies even more.

 

Poorly Fit or Defective Lenses: Lenses that are too tight can restrict normal tear flow underneath your lenses and reduce the amount of oxygen to your corneas. Your eyes may seem fine in the morning, but as the day goes on, your eyes may become red and begin to ache. A lens that is too loose may cause redness as well.

For more information read the original article written by Dr. Troy L. Bedinghaus and published on About.com by clicking here.

By getting your eyes checked regularly, you’ll be able to keep them healthy your whole life. Neglect can be costly! Schedule an appointment today and drop in at any of 20/20 Eyeglass Superstore® convenient location at Winter Park, Melbourne or Orange City for an eye exam by an Independent Doctor of Optometry.