Contact lens associated red eye: what to know

Redness may follow dryness, a scratch, a lens that was worn too long, a damaged lens, or contamination. It can also occur with conjunctivitis or allergic conjunctivitis. Contact lens wear can allow a more serious infection of the cornea, particularly when pain, light sensitivity, discharge, blurred vision, or a feeling that something is stuck accompanies the redness.

The appearance of the eye alone cannot reliably identify the cause. An eye-care professional may need to examine the cornea and check vision. Do not use someone else’s drops or leftover antibiotic drops, because the wrong treatment can delay appropriate care.

Wash and dry your hands, then remove the contact lens if it comes out easily. Keep it in its case rather than putting it back in, and take the lens and solution to the appointment if requested. Use glasses until an eye professional says lens wear can restart. Avoid rubbing the eye, swimming with lenses, and sharing towels or eye products. Preservative-free lubricating drops may be suitable for simple dryness, but ask a pharmacist or clinician when the eye is painful or visibly inflamed.

Arrange same-day eye assessment for a painful red eye in a contact lens wearer, reduced or blurred vision, light sensitivity, marked discharge, a white spot on the cornea, or worsening symptoms after removing the lens. Seek emergency help for sudden vision loss, severe eye pain, a chemical splash, injury, or severe headache with nausea. Do not wait for redness to settle if pain or vision change is present.

Could the cornea be scratched or infected? When may I safely wear lenses again? Do I need treatment or a change in lens-care routine? Should my other eye be checked?