Contact lens intolerance (CLI) is a condition affecting many people. Understanding CLI is essential for those who prefer the convenience of contacts over glasses. In this post, we share more information about what causes CLI, its symptoms, prevention strategies, and available treatments.
CLI manifests through discomfort and pain that make wearing contact lenses a troublesome experience. Symptoms include stinging, burning sensations, excessive dryness, and the feeling that something is in your eye. Initially, these symptoms may appear only occasionally but can become more frequent and severe over time. Such discomforts signal that it’s time to consult an eye care professional.
Several factors contribute to the development of CLI. These include allergic reactions to the lens material or the solutions used for cleaning, improper lens fit, and poor hygiene practices. Notably, the accumulation of bacteria and fungi on lenses is a common culprit, often stemming from insufficient cleaning or overuse of contact lenses. Moreover, sleeping in contact lenses or using them beyond their intended duration increases the risk of CLI.
Ignoring the recommended care instructions for contact lens usage poses significant risks, including serious eye infections, which can lead to permanent vision damage. Statistics reveal concerning behaviors among contact lens users, such as reusing old solutions and extending the use of lens cases beyond recommended periods. These practices have been linked to a higher prevalence of eye infections.
Fortunately, several strategies can effectively mitigate the risks of CLI. Prioritizing proper lens care and hygiene is fundamental—this includes following the recommended schedule for replacing lenses and their cases, using a fresh solution every day, and avoiding lens wear while sleeping unless specifically directed by an eye care professional. Additionally, exploring alternative vision correction methods, such as LASIK or EVO ICL, could offer a permanent solution for those suffering from CLI, with the added benefits of potentially superior vision quality and reduced risk of eye infections.
Our team at Alderwood Optical & Canyon Park Vision Clinic is ready to conduct comprehensive eye exams to diagnose CLI and recommend personalized treatment plans. Our options may include adjusting your contact lens prescription, proposing alternative lens types, or discussing surgical vision correction procedures to achieve long-term relief. Call us today at (425) 771-8472 (Lynnwood) or (425) 485-0430 (Bothell). You can also reach us via our contact page.