Contact lenses are a popular choice for people who prefer not to wear eyeglasses. They provide clear vision and allow for greater freedom of movement compared to traditional glasses.

However, it’s important to follow the recommended wearing schedule and take proper care of contact lenses to avoid potential risks and complications. In this article, we will explore what happens when you wear contact lenses for extended periods of time.

1. Dry Eyes

Wearing contact lenses for extended periods can lead to dry eyes. Contact lenses can disrupt the normal tear film on the surface of the eyes, leading to decreased moisture.

Lack of moisture can cause discomfort, redness, and a gritty sensation in the eyes.

2. Increased Risk of Infections

Extended contact lens wear without proper hygiene can increase the risk of eye infections. Bacteria, viruses, and fungi can accumulate on the contact lens surface, leading to infections such as bacterial keratitis or conjunctivitis.

These infections can cause symptoms like eye pain, discharge, and blurry vision.

3. Corneal Abrasions

Wearing contact lenses for extended periods can potentially cause corneal abrasions. Contact lenses can sometimes rub against the surface of the cornea, leading to scratches or abrasions.

This can result in eye discomfort, redness, and sensitivity to light.

4. Decreased Oxygen Supply

When you wear contact lenses continuously, they can hinder the oxygen supply to the cornea. This lack of oxygen can lead to corneal swelling, also known as corneal edema. Corneal edema can cause blurred vision, halos around lights, and discomfort.

5. Giant Papillary Conjunctivitis (GPC)

Wearing contact lenses for extended periods can also increase the risk of developing Giant Papillary Conjunctivitis (GPC).

GPC is an allergic reaction characterized by itching, redness, contact lens intolerance, and the formation of papillae on the inner surface of the eyelids. GPC can make wearing contact lenses uncomfortable or even impossible.

Extended contact lens wear may lead to contact lens-related dry eye. This condition occurs due to the decreased production of tears when contact lenses are on the eye for an extended time.

The lack of tear production can result in eye discomfort, blurry vision, and a foreign body sensation.

7. Corneal Neovascularization

Corneal neovascularization is a condition where new blood vessels grow into the cornea. Wearing contact lenses excessively can restrict oxygen supply to the cornea, forcing the formation of new blood vessels.

These blood vessels can interfere with the normal clarity of the cornea and may result in redness, compromised vision, and increased sensitivity to light.

8. Increased Risk of Contact Lens Deposits

Wearing contact lenses for extended periods can lead to the buildup of deposits on the lens surface. Protein and lipid deposits can accumulate on the lens, causing irritation and discomfort.

These deposits may also decrease the visual quality and necessitate more frequent replacement of the contact lenses.

9. Reduced Comfort and Tolerance

Long-term contact lens wear without taking breaks can lead to reduced comfort and tolerance towards wearing contact lenses. Eyes may become more sensitive to the lenses, causing discomfort and a greater likelihood of complications.

It is important to give your eyes a break from contact lenses to maintain their tolerance.

10. Vision Changes

Prolonged contact lens wear can sometimes induce changes in vision. This may cause fluctuations in prescription or changes in visual acuity.

In some cases, individuals may require a different prescription due to the prolonged stress on the eyes caused by extended contact lens wear.

Conclusion

While contact lenses offer convenience and clear vision, wearing them for extended periods without proper care can lead to various complications.

Dry eyes, infections, corneal abrasions, decreased oxygen supply, giant papillary conjunctivitis, contact lens-related dry eye, corneal neovascularization, increased deposits, reduced comfort, tolerance issues, and vision changes are potential consequences. It is crucial to follow the recommended wearing schedule, practice good hygiene, and give your eyes regular breaks from contact lenses to minimize these risks and maintain healthy vision.

Always consult with an eye care professional for personalized advice regarding the use and care of contact lenses.