Can You Lose A Contact Lens in Your Eye?
The world of vision correction has been revolutionized with the advent of contact lenses. These thin, transparent medical devices can be a life-changer, offering convenience, comfort, and clear vision for those needing vision correction. But along with their many benefits, contact lenses have also given rise to several myths. Among these is the worrying belief that you can lose a contact lens in your eye. So, let's unravel the truth – is it myth or fact?
The Straightforward Answer
To put it plainly, it's largely a myth. Yes, a contact lens can sometimes dislodge from its proper position and move around in your eye, typically slipping under the eyelid. However, it cannot go behind your eye or become permanently lost inside your eye.
The Eye's Anatomy: A Protective Barrier
Understanding why this is the case requires a brief dive into the anatomy of the eye. The interior of your eyelids, the conjunctiva, forms a protective barrier that extends from the eyelids to cover the white part of the eye (sclera). This creates a kind of sac that prevents objects, like contact lenses, from getting behind your eye.
When Contacts Go Astray
So why do some people experience a 'disappearing' contact lens? This often happens when a contact lens moves beneath the eyelid or becomes folded or dehydrated, causing it to feel as though it's been lost. If this happens, don't panic. Simply wash and dry your hands, then gently massage your eyelid until you can see or feel the lens. In some rare cases, you may need assistance from an optometrist to locate and remove the lens. These type of eye emergency visits, are covered by Alberta Health Care, so don’t hesitate to contact us.
Preventing Unwanted Contact Lens Movement
To minimize the chances of your contact lens moving out of place:
Always ensure you've been properly fitted for contacts lenses by an optometrist.
Make sure your contact lens is clean, hydrated, and not inside out before insertion.
Avoid rubbing your eyes aggressively, as this can dislodge the lens.
But What About The Lady with 23 Contact Lenses in Her Eye?
A recent TikTok video went viral, showcasing a remarkable and highly unusual medical event: a woman had 23 contact lenses removed from her eye by her eye doctor. This case gained widespread attention due to its sheer rarity, as it's almost unheard of for someone to accumulate so many lenses without noticing. The video captured the careful and precise work of the eye doctor, who meticulously extracted the lenses one by one.
Final Words If You Think You've Lost A Contact Lens In Your Eye.
So, the idea that you can permanently lose a contact lens in your eye is a myth. While contacts can occasionally displace and cause discomfort, your eye's anatomy prevents them from becoming irretrievably lost. However, if you do experience discomfort, pain, or prolonged issues with your contact lenses, it's important to book an eye exam with one of our Helio Optometrists. Never ignore any consistent discomfort or changes in vision, as these may signal other eye health concerns that need immediate attention.
Let us know below if you’ve ever lost a contact lens in your eye.
Disclaimer: The content provided in this blog post by Helio Optometry eye care clinic in West Edmonton is intended solely for informational purposes and does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment by a Licensed Optometrist. No doctor/patient relationship is established through the use of this blog. The information and resources presented are not meant to endorse or recommend any particular medical treatment or guarantee and outcome. Readers must consult with their own healthcare provider regarding their health concerns. Helio Optometry and its optometrists do not assume any liability for the information contained herein nor for any errors or omissions. Use of the blog's content is at the user's own risk, and users are encouraged to make informed decisions about their health care based on consultations with qualified professionals.