Broken Contact Lenses: What to Know

The broken contact lenses They are a common accident for those with vision problems.

In fact, they can break for various reasons, causing discomfort and worries.

Damage can appear as scratches or breaks, especially if the lens is subjected to excessive pressure during the cleaning process or if it is stored at high temperatures. It can also occur from using hot water for rinsing or from forgetting to leave the lenses on the car dashboard.

A damaged contact lens can cause:

• difficulty in correcting refractive errors;
• local irritation;
• corneal deformation;
• colonization by pathogens;
• conjunctivitis or keratitis.

It is important to note that deterioration is more common in contact lenses soft compared to the rigid ones gas-permeable (RGP) .

To answer the questions of anyone who has encountered this problem at least once or fears they may encounter it, we'll explore how to tell if a lens is damaged, what to do if it breaks, and provide valuable advice on how to prevent contact lens breakage.

How to tell if your lens is damaged

If you wear contact lenses, it's crucial to pay attention to signs that might indicate problems. Therefore, understanding whether the lens it's ruined It is essential to avoid complications and ensure your eye health.

Here are some key indicators you should carefully consider to recognize a damaged contact lens:

1. persistent pain and discomfort, itching, burning, or constant discomfort;
2. blurred vision or disturbed, sudden changes in visual clarity;
3. eye redness and irritation associated with the use of contact lenses;
4. difficulty removing lenses (Please note: forcing the removal could make the situation worse and cause further damage to your eyes);
5.  foreign body sensation in the eye ;
6. changes in fit (e.g., a lens fits differently or seems to slip during wear).
   
   
   
   
   

Recognizing these signs and taking prompt action is essential to avoid eye complications. If you suspect a damaged lens, we recommend you consult an eye care professional immediately for a detailed evaluation.

What to do if your contact lens is broken

Try to remove A broken contact lens can be difficult for both beginners and contact lens veterans.

In some cases the fragment is easily removable, but sometimes it appears stuck. In this case it may be located on the cornea , becoming too dry to be removed easily, or under the eyelid , causing a foreign body sensation.

We will therefore explain how to behave in this more complex circumstance:

1. wash your hands thoroughly;
2. check the position of the broken lens;
3. use eye drops that are safe for contact lenses;
4. Gently massage the eye to distribute the liquid;
5. keep calm;
6. If you experience persistent pain or difficulty, consult a professional immediately.
   
   
   
   
   

Before attempting removal, be sure to always wash your hands with water and dry them thoroughly, leaving no lint from the towel.

If the lens is centered but does not move easily, it may have lost moisture. A couple of drops of artificial tear For contact lenses, they will help loosen the lens. Gently massage your closed eye to distribute the moisture, making the lens easier to remove.

If the lens has moved Under the eyelid or in the corner of the eye , close your eyes and gently massage it toward the center of the cornea. Rinse the eye with a drop of artificial tears before attempting to move it, making the process easier.

It's crucial to stay calm during removal. If you experience difficulty or pain or discomfort, take a break rather than risk scratching the surface of your eye.

It must be said that stuck contact lenses do not represent an immediate emergency, but it is essential remove them within 24 hours .

Of course, if you experience persistent pain, irritation, or difficulty, don't hesitate to consult a professional.

Contrary to popular belief, contact lenses cannot get lost behind the eye, as the muscles and conjunctival membrane prevent them from moving to the back of the eye.

How to avoid breaking it

Avoid breakage Wearing contact lenses is essential for ensuring clear vision and eye health. Everyone experiences this annoying inconvenience, but we encourage you to follow these tips to store contact lenses without ruining them.

1. Keep the Moisturized lenses , because dry lenses are more susceptible to breakage. If you use monthly or bi-weekly lenses, store them in solution when you're not wearing them.
2. Apply artificial tear drops before removing them, waiting 30 seconds. This step helps moisturize the lenses, making them softer and easier to remove.
3. Use a lens holder high quality and suitable for different types of lens liquids.
4. Fill the lens case properly and generously with solution to ensure proper immersion. Make sure it's closed properly to avoid spills or contamination, and change it regularly to keep your lenses clean.
5. Be careful of cold, wind, and air conditioning, as they can dry out your eyes and lenses.
6. Switch to lenses daily : if lens breakage is a frequent problem, consider switching to contact lenses Daily. With new lenses every day, you'll reduce the risk of breakage and have fewer worries about damage.

By following these tips, you will significantly reduce the risk of breaking your precious contact lenses.