For those who wear contact lenses on a daily basis, it’s crucial to keep track of them at all times. Losing or misplacing your contact lenses may seem like a minor issue, but it can lead to a range of infections and complications.

In this article, we discuss how lost or misplaced contact lenses can cause infections and why it’s important to be mindful of where your lenses are at all times.

What Happens When You Lose or Misplace Your Contact Lenses?

When your contact lenses get lost or misplaced, they can become a breeding ground for bacteria, fungi, and other harmful microorganisms.

This is because contact lenses are designed to fit snugly against your eye, which makes it easy for bacteria and other debris to accumulate on them.

When a contact lens is lost or misplaced, there’s a higher likelihood that it will come into contact with bacteria from your hands or other surfaces.

This can lead to infections like conjunctivitis (pink eye), keratitis, and corneal ulcers, which can cause pain, irritation, and even vision loss if left untreated.

The Risks of Wearing Old Lenses

Another risk associated with lost or misplaced contact lenses is the tendency to wear old lenses for an extended period.

When contact lenses are lost or misplaced, there’s a temptation to use an old pair of lenses until you’re able to replace them. This is a dangerous practice because old lenses can accumulate harmful bacteria and other microorganisms that can cause severe eye infections.

According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, wearing old contact lenses can increase the risk of developing a serious eye infection by up to five times than expected.

So always replace lost or misplaced contact lenses as soon as possible, to avoid the risk of infection.

How to Avoid Losing or Misplacing Your Contact Lenses

To avoid the risks associated with lost or misplaced contact lenses, it’s vital to establish good habits when it comes to handling your lenses. These include:.

Storing your lenses in a safe and secure location when not in use
Avoiding touching your eyes or lenses with dirty hands
Keeping a spare pair of lenses and solution on hand, so you’re never without lenses
Making sure you have adequate lighting when handling your lenses to avoid dropping or losing them

By establishing these good habits, you can minimize the risk of losing or misplacing your contact lenses, and reduce the chances of developing an eye infection.

What to Do if You Lose or Misplace Your Contact Lenses

If you do lose or misplace your contact lenses, the first step is to avoid panic. While it’s challenging to function without your contact lenses, it’s essential to take a deep breath and consider your options. These include:.

Checking your home or workspace for the lost contact lens
Using an older pair of contact lenses until you can get a new one from your eye doctor
Contacting your eye doctor for advice on how to proceed

You should also pay close attention to any symptoms of infection, such as redness, swelling, and pain around the eye. If you experience any of these symptoms, seek medical attention immediately, as they could be a sign of a severe infection.

The Bottom Line

While losing or misplacing your contact lenses may seem harmless, it can lead to severe eye infections that can cause significant pain and vision loss.

By following good handling habits and being mindful of where your lenses are at all times, you can minimize the risk of losing or misplacing your lenses and keep your eyes healthy and risk-free.