Online Bill Pay Virtual Optical Shop Schedule LASIK Consultation
Reston   (703) 485-2148 Leesburg   (703) 777-1244
Reston   (703) 485-2148 Leesburg   (703) 777-1244



Signs You May Have a Contact Stuck In Your Eye

Did you see the recent news story about a woman who had 27 contact lenses stuck in her eye?

It’s understandable that your first reaction may have been disbelief; after all, how could someone have that many contact lenses in one eye without noticing?  While this instance may have certainly been rare in terms of the quantity of lenses, the truth is that contact lenses end up getting stuck or lost all the time.

Maybe you forgot to take your contacts out before you fell asleep, or you just forgot that you already put your lens in.  No matter how it happens – and we certainly won’t judge! – here are the top signs that you may have a contact stuck in your eye:

  • You’re experiencing a burning sensation in one or both of your eyes
  • You have red, irritated eyes
  • You’re experiencing a sharp, scratching pain
  • It’s difficult to open your eyes without experiencing pain or irritation

Most of the time, you’ll be able to tell if you have a contact lens stuck in your eye.  In order to minimize the chances that you’ll get one stuck in your eye, make sure you follow these standard safety tips:

  • Always, always wash your hands before handling contact lenses
  • Don’t fall asleep in contact lenses, no matter how tired you might be
  • Don’t mix contact lens solution with older solution, as this can exacerbate dry, irritated eyes
  • Don’t swim with contact lenses
  • Don’t shower with contact lenses

One of the most important steps you can follow is to maintain your annual ophthalmologist appointments.  Your ophthalmologist can examine your eyes for signs of irritation, as well as help you form the healthiest contact lens habits possible.

Want to learn more tips and techniques for handling and wearing contact lenses? Schedule an eye exam with ophthalmologist Dr. Jacqueline Griffiths at NewView Eye Center in Reston, VA today.

NewView Eye Center serves the greater Washington, DC metro area.