Contact lens associated eye infection

High-index contact lenses are thinner

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 a heavy prescription can benefit more from this new lens design, because contact lenses made of high-index materials are thinner than conventional GP lenses. This improvement is quite similar to that of high-index eyeglasses. Eyeglass lenses made of high-index materials can be 50% thinner than traditional plastic lenses. Seriously vision impaired wearers no long need to worry about excessive lens thickness.

Contact lens-related dry eye

Contact lenses can sometimes become the cause of dry eye. Water content in the lenses 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 effectively. 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.

Tap water-caused eye infection

Eye infection is one of the most common complications related with 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. Some disinfectants in tap water can also be a potential risk. In this sense, it is a must to prevent the lenses from being touched by tap water. Moreover, contact lens users are also strictly prohibited from cleaning or rinsing their lenses with tap water.

Lens solution-caused eye infection

Multipurpose contact lens solutions can also be linked 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.