Contact lens associated eye infection

Tuesday, March 2nd, 2010 at 2:30 pm Post in Contact Lenses

Currently, gas permeable contact lenses are also available in high-index materials, which have long been used only for eyeglass lenses. Using high-index materials, Paragon Vision Sciences published its HDS HI 1.54 GP lenses, which are more comfortable and allow more oxygen to reach the cornea. People with heavy prescription can benefit more from this new lens design, because contacts made of high-index materials are thinner than conventional GP lenses.

Contact lenses can sometimes become the cause of dry eye. Water content in contacts is a critical factor. Hyaluronic acid, which is a common fluid in human body, is now used as a natural moisturizing agent in contact lens solutions. This acid is proved to ease dry eye and related discomfort. In addition, some brands of contact lenses contain lubricating agents, such as Air Optix Aqua contact lenses. Minimizing lens dehydration and maintaining moisture, these lenses are designed to offer more comfort.

Eye infection is one of the most common complications of contact lenses. Tap water has been found to bring more risks of the outbreak of eye infections such as Acanthamoeba Keratitis. When contact lens wearers are showering, microbial agents in tap water can transmit through water droplets. Fewer disinfectants in tap water can also be a potential cause.

Multipurpose contact lens solutions can also be associated with eye infections. In 2007, Abbot Medical Optics released its new multipurpose contact lens solution named Complete, which focused on comfort and disinfection efficacy. However, the firm was forced to recall those solutions due to the development of eye infection caused by water-borne Acanthamoeba organism. Contact lens wearers should practice good hygiene and remove lenses before swimming or showering with tap water.