What are the issues to address in contact lens usage?

From the Guidelines

When using contact lenses, it is crucial to prioritize proper lens care and hygiene to prevent complications, and the most effective way to do this is by following the guidelines outlined in the most recent study 1, which emphasizes the importance of washing hands, avoiding water exposure, and proper lens storage and replacement. To maintain eye health and prevent complications, several key issues must be addressed when using contact lenses.

• Always wash hands thoroughly with soap and water before handling lenses to prevent introducing bacteria to the eyes, as recommended by the FDA and CDC 1.
• Clean and disinfect lenses daily using the specific solution recommended for the lens type, and never use tap water, saliva, or homemade solutions 1.
• Replace lenses according to the prescribed schedule, and store them in fresh solution in a clean case, replacing the case every three months 1.
• Never sleep in lenses unless specifically prescribed as extended wear by an eye doctor, as overnight wear increases the risk of corneal infections 1.
• Remove lenses immediately if experiencing redness, pain, excessive tearing, light sensitivity, blurred vision, or discharge, as these may indicate an infection requiring prompt medical attention 1.
• Attend regular eye exams, typically annually, to ensure the prescription remains accurate and to check for any lens-related complications 1. It is also important to consider the risks associated with contact lens wear during travel, particularly in remote areas with limited access to clean water and ophthalmic care, and to take extra precautions such as using daily disposable lenses and avoiding swimming or showering in lenses 1. By following these guidelines and taking a cautious approach to contact lens use, individuals can minimize the risk of complications and maintain good eye health.

From the FDA Drug Label

5.3 Avoidance of Contact Lens Wear Patients should be advised not to wear contact lenses if they have signs and symptoms of bacterial conjunctivitis or during the course of therapy with gatifloxacin ophthalmic solution, 0.5%

5.3 Avoidance of Contact Lenses. Patients should not wear contact lenses if they have signs or symptoms of bacterial conjunctivitis or during the course of therapy with gatifloxacin ophthalmic solution, 0.5%

The main issue to address in contact lens usage is to avoid wearing contact lenses if the patient has signs or symptoms of bacterial conjunctivitis or during the course of therapy with gatifloxacin ophthalmic solution, 0.5% 2 2. Key points to consider:

• Do not wear contact lenses during therapy with gatifloxacin ophthalmic solution, 0.5%
• Avoid contact lens wear if signs or symptoms of bacterial conjunctivitis are present

From the Research

Issues to Address in Contact Lens Usage

• Poor lens and lens case hygiene, which is a key risk factor for microbial keratitis (MK) 3
• Non-compliance with lens care instructions, which can lead to eye infections and inflammation 3, 4
• Contamination of lenses from hands, cleaning solutions, cases, water, and the environment 4
• Presence of contact lens deposits, which can increase the risk of infection and cause wearing discomfort 4
• Improper use of contact lens solutions, which can lead to discomfort and infection 4
• Risk factors associated with increased risk of contact lens related corneal ulcers, including:
  • Overnight wear 5, 6
  • Long duration of continuous wear 6
  • Lower socio-economic classes 6
  • Smoking 6
  • Dry eye 6
  • Poor hygiene 6
• Delayed diagnosis and treatment of contact lens related corneal ulcers, which can cause permanent blindness 6, 7
• Importance of proper lens care and maintenance, including the 'rub and rinse' technique, to prevent eye infections and inflammation 3
• Need for eye care providers to communicate effectively with patients about healthy wear and care habits, including recommendations for lens replacement schedules, not sleeping in lenses, and not topping off solutions 5