Conjunctivitis and contact lenses
There are risks involved with wearing contact lenses for continuous periods of time. Three main problem signs are:
- Increased redness of the eyes.
- Blurring or decreased visual acuity.
- Discomfort or pain.
If any one of these symptoms are experienced, the doctor should be informed immediately.
People who wear contact lenses are prone to several forms of conjunctivitis, in particular, the conjunctivitis known as giant papillary conjunctivitis (GPC). Conjunctivitis is due to the contact lenses acting as a foreign body in the eyes. If these lenses are not fitted properly or cleaned correctly, they can cause this irksome disease.
The best way to control GPC is by prevention. Some causes of GPC could be mechanical trauma to the upper lid during contact lens wear and/or repeated lid trauma due to blinking. Further irritation due to lens surface deposits, which can also involve an allergic response, leads to even more lid reaction. Clinically, if lid trauma is removed or reduced, the problem of GPC usually disappears.
Obviously, firefighters are strong candidates for GPC. Over a long period of time, it becomes virtually impossible to avoid this virus. Whether it be smoke, dirt, or the contagious characteristics of this problem, firefighters are highly susceptible to catching GPC. Some of the ways to control GPC are:
- Reduce the contact time of lens and lid. This is done by lessening the patient’s contact lens wearing time and/or removing the contact lenses for a short period of time.
- Reduce the friction of the lens and lid by vigorous surface cleaning and the use of an enzyme cleaner.
- If necessary, replacement of the lenses and/or changing and refitting the patient to a different type of lens, whether it be extended wear, daily wear, or gas permeable.
