What Happens When You Don't Replace Soft Contact Lenses?

A patient was suffering from chronic eye infections and had been examined several times over the last few months. Finally the doctor everted the patients eyelids and found green, slimy soft contact lenses. The patient said "Why that's impossible. I haven't worn contact lenses in 10 years." Those contacts had been sitting up in the upper eyelid all that time. Typically contact lenses that aren't replaced on a regular basis cause problems a lot sooner than that.

Types of Disposable Modalities

• Contact lenses are typically disposed of each day, every two weeks or once a month. The disposal time that works best depends on your lifestyle. Daily disposables work well if you don't want to hassle with solutions. They are also the best choice if you only want to wear contact lenses once in awhile. Two week and monthly lenses are a less expensive option. Two week and monthly disposable lenses are also available in extended wear, which can be safely worn overnight.

Reasons Patients Don't Replace their Contact Lenses

• The number one reason why patients are non-compliant with changing their contacts on a regular basis is cost. Contact lenses, even with the rebates available, can be expensive. Another reason is that patients just simply forget to change their lenses. Additionally, they may not have been educated properly on how long each lens lasts. They may feel that since they aren't having any problems, there is no reason to change the lens.

Discomfort: The First Sign that Your Lenses are Too Old

• Burning, irritation, light sensitivity, lens awareness, excessive lens movement: these are all symptoms you may feel if you have extended the life of your contact lenses too long. When a lens is over used, protein and other particles can build up on the lens. These particles can cause mechanical irritation to the underside of the upper lid. This condition is called giant papillary conjunctivitis.This excess buildup of debris on the lens can make the eyes so uncomfortable you have to limit the time you wear them or discontinue them altogether.

Infection: The Serious Risk associated with Over Use

• Light sensititivity can be a sign of a serious complication of contact lens over wear.

  Discomfort and light sensitivity are often the first signs of serious complications that can arise from over wear. Old lenses are more prone to bacterial contamination.

  When this bacteria comes into contact with the cornea, a collection of white blood cells can form. This is the first stage of a corneal ulcer. If left untreated a full blown ulcer can erode the cornea. At the first sign of redness, pain and light sensitivity, the contact lens should be removed and you should seek treatment with your eye care professional.