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Contact Lens Problems: Infection

Topic Overview

Keratitis refers to an inflammation of the cornea. Infection of the cornea is called infectious keratitis. It is the most serious complication of contact lens wear and can cause blindness.

Bacterial keratitis is the most common type of infectious keratitis. Overall, bacterial keratitis is among the least frequent complications of wearing contacts. But it is much more common in people with extended-wear soft lenses, especially those who wear the lenses overnight.

Even though the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved some extended-wear lenses for 30-day use, many eye doctors recommend that people wear them for a week at most. And many doctors suggest taking them out while you sleep.

In rare cases, viruses and fungi may cause keratitis. A germ that is often present in tap water causes a form of keratitis that is increasingly seen in contact lens wearers, especially those with soft lenses.

Noninfectious causes of keratitis in contact lens wearers include:

  • Injury (from a blow, scratch, or foreign object).
  • Chemicals, including those in contact lens solutions.
  • Physiological factors, such as an allergic reaction to deposits on the lenses.

If you wear contact lenses and you have a painful, red eye, you may have infectious keratitis. Remove your lenses and call your doctor immediately. Symptoms of bacterial keratitis may include:

  • Pain and redness in the eye.
  • Tearing and painful sensitivity to light.
  • Discharge.
  • Decreased vision.

Credits

By Healthwise Staff
Primary Medical Reviewer Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer Christopher J. Rudnisky, MD, MPH, FRCSC - Ophthalmology
Last Revised June 24, 2011

Last Revised: June 24, 2011

Author: Healthwise Staff

Medical Review: Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine & Christopher J. Rudnisky, MD, MPH, FRCSC - Ophthalmology

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