can i wear contacts with subconjunctival hemorrhage

2 min read 28-09-2024

can i wear contacts with subconjunctival hemorrhage

Subconjunctival hemorrhage, often described as a “bloodshot eye,” occurs when small blood vessels in the eye rupture, leading to bleeding on the conjunctiva—the thin membrane covering the white part of the eye. While this condition may seem alarming, it is usually harmless and resolves on its own. One common question among those affected is: Can I wear contacts with subconjunctival hemorrhage?

Understanding Subconjunctival Hemorrhage

Subconjunctival hemorrhage can result from various causes, including:

Trauma or Injury: A blow to the eye can cause blood vessels to break.
Straining: Activities that increase blood pressure, such as heavy lifting, coughing, or vomiting, can lead to bleeding in the eye.
Medical Conditions: Conditions such as hypertension or blood clotting disorders can make individuals more susceptible to subconjunctival hemorrhage.

While this condition usually resolves within one to two weeks without any treatment, you should consider its symptoms and implications before deciding to wear contact lenses.

Can You Wear Contacts?

Answer: It’s Generally Not Recommended

Most eye care professionals suggest avoiding contact lens use during a subconjunctival hemorrhage for several reasons:

Irritation: Contacts can increase irritation in the affected eye, potentially exacerbating discomfort.
Hygiene Concerns: Putting contact lenses in or taking them out may introduce bacteria, increasing the risk of infection, especially since the protective layer of the conjunctiva may be compromised.
Visibility and Comfort: With the presence of blood in the eye, visibility may be impaired and discomfort can be heightened, making it difficult to wear contacts.

Analysis

While there is a general consensus against wearing contact lenses during a subconjunctival hemorrhage, the situation can vary based on individual circumstances. For instance, if the hemorrhage is minor and not causing significant discomfort or vision problems, some might choose to wear contacts.

However, it is crucial to err on the side of caution. If there is any doubt, consulting an eye care professional is advisable. They can evaluate the extent of the hemorrhage and provide tailored recommendations.

Practical Example

Imagine Sarah, a long-time contact lens wearer, who notices a sudden redness in her left eye after an intense workout. After doing some research, she learns that she may have a subconjunctival hemorrhage. Although she feels fine and her vision is unchanged, she decides to visit her eye doctor. The doctor advises her to refrain from wearing her contacts until the condition resolves to avoid irritation.

Taking this advice, Sarah opts for her glasses until the redness fades, ensuring her eyes remain comfortable and healthy.

Tips for Managing Subconjunctival Hemorrhage

While subconjunctival hemorrhage typically resolves without intervention, here are some practical tips for managing the condition:

Cool Compress: Applying a cool, damp cloth to the eyes can help relieve discomfort.
Rest: Allowing your eyes to rest can facilitate healing.
Avoid Strain: Refrain from heavy lifting or other activities that may put additional strain on the eyes.
Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water helps maintain overall eye health.

Conclusion

In summary, while subconjunctival hemorrhage is generally harmless and often resolves on its own, wearing contact lenses during this time is usually not advisable due to potential irritation, hygiene concerns, and impaired comfort. If you experience this condition, consider switching to glasses until you receive the all-clear from an eye care professional.

Additional Resources

For further reading, consult sources such as:

American Academy of Ophthalmology
Eye Health and Safety articles from the CDC

Making informed decisions about eye health is crucial, so don't hesitate to seek professional advice when needed!