Can you wear contacts with pink eye? In this blog post, we will discuss the risks of wearing contacts with pink eye and provide tips on how to manage the condition.
Pink eye, also known as conjunctivitis, is a common condition that causes inflammation of the conjunctiva, the thin layer that covers the white part of the eye and the inside of the eyelids.
The condition is highly contagious and can be caused by a bacterial or viral infection, allergies, or irritants such as smoke, dust, or chemicals. The symptoms of pink eye include redness, itching, tearing, discharge, and sensitivity to light.
For contact lens wearers, one of the most common questions that arise is whether it is safe to wear contacts with pink eye.
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Estimated reading time: 5 minutes
What is Pink Eye?
Pink eye, or conjunctivitis, is an inflammation or infection of the transparent membrane (conjunctiva) that lines your eyelid and covers the white part of your eyeball. It’s crucial to understand why wearing contact lenses during this condition is not advisable.
Why You Can’t Wear Contacts with Pink Eye?
Contact lenses sit directly on the eye’s surface, potentially irritating an already inflamed conjunctiva and exacerbating the symptoms of pink eye. Additionally, contacts could harbor the bacteria or virus causing the pink eye, increasing the risk of re-infection.
Can you Wear Contacts with Pink Eye?
The short answer is NO. Wearing contacts with pink eye is not recommended as it can worsen the condition and spread the infection. Contact lenses can trap bacteria and irritants on the surface of the eye, preventing it from being flushed out naturally.
This can cause the infection to linger and spread to other parts of the eye, leading to complications such as corneal ulcers, scarring, or vision loss.
In addition, wearing contacts with pink eye can also make the symptoms worse. Contacts can cause further irritation to the inflamed conjunctiva, making the eyes more red, itchy, and uncomfortable. It can also cause the contact lens to become cloudy or discolored, making it difficult to see clearly.
10 ways to Manage Pink Eye while Wearing Contacts
If you have pink eye and wear contacts, it’s important to take proper precautions to manage the condition and prevent the infection from spreading. Here are 10 ways to manage pink eye while wearing contacts:
Remove your contacts:
The first step is to remove your contacts and switch to glasses until the infection clears up completely. Contact lenses can trap bacteria and irritants on the surface of the eye, worsening the condition and making the symptoms worse.
Wash your hands frequently:
Pink eye is highly contagious, so it’s important to wash your hands frequently with soap and water, especially before and after touching your eyes or applying eye drops.
Clean and disinfect your contacts:
If you have worn contacts while you had pink eye, it’s important to clean and disinfect them thoroughly before wearing them again. Follow the instructions on your contact lens solution carefully and replace your contacts as recommended.
Avoid touching your eyes:
Touching your eyes can transfer bacteria and irritants to your eyes, worsening the infection. Try to avoid rubbing or touching your eyes, and use a clean tissue or cloth to wipe away any discharge.
Use prescribed eye drops:
Depending on the cause of your pink eye, your doctor may prescribe eye drops or ointments to treat the infection or manage the symptoms. It’s important to follow the instructions carefully and finish the entire course of treatment.
Avoid wearing eye makeup:
Eye makeup can introduce bacteria or irritants to the eye, worsening the infection. Avoid wearing eye makeup while you have pink eye and replace any makeup that may have been contaminated.
Wash your bedding and towels:
To prevent the spread of pink eye, wash your bedding, towels, and clothes in hot water and detergent to kill any bacteria or viruses.
Use a clean washcloth:
Use a clean washcloth to gently wipe away any discharge from your eyes. Wash the washcloth in hot water and detergent after each use.
Avoid sharing personal items:
To prevent the spread of pink eye, avoid sharing personal items such as towels, washcloths, makeup, or eye drops with others.
Rest and take care of yourself:
Pink eye can be uncomfortable and draining, so it’s important to get plenty of rest, eat a healthy diet, and drink lots of fluids to support your immune system and help your body fight the infection.
Final Thought
In conclusion, wearing contacts with pink eye is not recommended. Contact lenses can trap bacteria and irritants on the surface of the eye, worsening the infection and making the symptoms worse.
It is important to remove your contacts and switch to glasses until the infection clears up completely. Follow the tips mentioned in the article to manage the symptoms, prevent the spread of the infection, and promote healing.
If you have any concerns or questions about wearing contacts with pink eye, it is best to consult your eye doctor for advice.
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