Wearing contact lenses can make life so much easier, but they occasionally bring their own set of challenges. One moment, you’re going about your day, and the next, you’re wondering whether your contact lens is still in your eye or if it fell out somewhere along the way. For most lens wearers, this is a situation that’s both puzzling and uncomfortable.
If you’re unsure whether a lens is still in your eye, watch for signs like persistent discomfort, redness, or a gritty feeling. Once you determine where it is, you can figure out if you need to remove it.
The Signs of a Stuck Contact Lens
Not all stuck lenses are immediately noticeable, and determining whether your lens is still there can take some attention to detail. However, your eye may give you clear signs that something isn’t right. Here’s what to watch for:
- Persistent discomfort or irritation: A lens stuck in your eye may feel like a foreign object or cause a constant pricking sensation.
- Blurred or cloudy vision: If your eyesight suddenly feels impaired, it could mean the lens is out of place, folded, or still in your eye.
- Redness and swelling: Irritation from a stuck lens can cause visible inflammation or redness around the eye.
- A gritty or foreign sensation: You might feel as though there’s dirt or sand in your eye when the lens is stuck.
If these symptoms persist, avoid poking or rubbing your eye, as this can worsen your discomfort or push the lens further inside. Take a moment to pause, breathe, and prepare for the next steps.
Locating a Stubborn Contact Lens in Your Eye
If you believe the lens hasn’t fallen out, the next step is to locate it. Proper identification is key, and staying calm is essential during this process. Follow these steps to safely examine your eye:
- Wash and dry your hands: Start with clean, dry hands to avoid introducing bacteria into your eyes. Use a lint-free towel to dry them.
- Check under your eyelids: Look in a mirror and gently pull your upper or lower eyelid away from your eyeball. Move your eye in various directions as you observe.
- Use proper lighting: Bright light or a flashlight can help make the lens easier to spot, especially if it is folded or transparent against your eye.
If you’re unable to locate the lens, applying a few drops of sterile saline solution or artificial tears may help flush out any debris and improve clarity.
Additional Tips for Locating a Stuck Lens
- Move your eyes in all directions (up, down, left, and right) while examining closely.
- Enlist a friend or family member to assist if you’re having trouble seeing the lens.
- Gently pull at the edges of your eyelid to check hard-to-see areas.
If you’re still unable to find the lens or suspect it’s deeply lodged, avoid forceful removal attempts and consider consulting an optometrist.
Safely Removing a Stuck Contact Lens
Once you’ve located the lens, removing it safely is your next priority. Rushing or using improper techniques may irritate the sensitive tissues of your eye. Follow these steps for safe removal:
- Stay calm and blink frequently: Blinking can naturally loosen a stuck lens and encourage it to move back into a more accessible position.
- Use rewetting drops: Adding moisture helps restore the lens’s shape and reduces friction, especially if it feels dry or stuck.
- Slide the lens gently: With clean hands, use your fingertips to lightly slide the lens toward the center of your eye or the edge where it can be pinched out.
Once removed, inspect the lens for damage like scratches or tears. If the lens is damaged, discard it immediately and avoid placing it back into your eye.
Pro Tips for Lens Removal
- Avoid pressing too hard on your eye, as this can worsen irritation.
- Take breaks if removal feels difficult. Resting can help reduce any swelling or discomfort.
- Always use clean equipment and products designed for contact lens care.
After safely removing the lens, give your eyes time to recover. Avoid reinserting a new lens until any irritation has subsided.
Potential Risks of a Stuck Contact Lens
A lens stuck in your eye isn’t just uncomfortable; it can also pose risks to your eye health if not addressed promptly. Some potential issues include:
- Irritation and redness: Prolonged exposure to a stuck lens can worsen discomfort.
- Scratched cornea: Mishandling or excessive rubbing may scratch the sensitive surface of your eye.
- Risk of infection: Conditions like conjunctivitis or keratitis can develop from bacteria introduced during the removal process.
- Vision problems: Swelling or excessive dryness may affect your clarity of vision temporarily.
If symptoms like redness, swelling, or persistent pain continue even after removal, contact an eye care professional immediately. Timely intervention can prevent more serious complications.
Schedule Your Eye Health Checkup Today
Dealing with a stuck contact lens might be inconvenient, but understanding how to address the issue safely can save you from frustration and potential complications. By taking a methodical approach and following best practices, you can minimize discomfort and protect your vision.
At McCauley Celin Eyecare Associates, we’re dedicated to helping you maintain healthy eyes and stress-free lens wear. Whether you’re managing contact lens issues or need a general consultation, we’re here for you. Book an appointment today with one of our optometrists to keep your lens-wearing experience comfortable and your eyes feeling great!
