Losing a contact lens is frustrating, but knowing whether it's actually in your eye or simply lost somewhere can save you a lot of time and potential eye irritation. This guide will help you determine if that elusive contact is still nestled comfortably on your cornea or has taken a less predictable path.
What are the Signs a Contact Lens is in Your Eye?
The most obvious sign, of course, is that you can see it. However, sometimes contacts are dislodged but still partially on the eye, making them difficult to spot. Here are some key indicators:
-
A Feeling Something is There: This is often the first clue. You might experience a scratchy, gritty, or foreign body sensation in your eye. It might feel like a small grain of sand or a persistent eyelash. This feeling is often accompanied by increased blinking and eye watering.
-
Blurred or Distorted Vision: If the lens is slightly out of place, your vision might become blurry or distorted in one eye. The distortion might be subtle or more pronounced, depending on the lens's position.
-
Eye Irritation and Discomfort: A dislodged contact lens can cause significant discomfort. This might manifest as redness, itching, watering, and even pain. Your eye may feel more sensitive to light.
-
Difficulty Closing Your Eye Completely: If a lens is significantly out of place, you may find it difficult to close your eyelid completely over your eye.
How Can I Check if My Contact is in My Eye?
Don't panic! Follow these steps to carefully check:
-
Good Lighting: Work in a well-lit area with a mirror. This will allow you to easily see your eye.
-
Gently Pull Down Your Lower Lid: Use your index finger and thumb to gently pull down your lower eyelid. This will expose the lower portion of your eye. Look for the contact.
-
Gently Pull Up Your Upper Lid: Use your other hand to gently lift your upper eyelid. Try to look in the mirror at an angle to spot the lens.
-
Use a Magnifying Mirror (Optional): A magnifying mirror can help you get a closer look, especially if your contact lens is small or partially hidden.
-
Rinse Your Eye (If Necessary): If you still can't find your contact, carefully rinse your eye with sterile saline solution. This can help to dislodge the lens if it's stuck to the surface of your eye. Do not use tap water.
-
Seek Professional Help: If you have repeatedly tried to locate the lens and are still unsuccessful, or if you experience persistent pain or vision changes, seek immediate assistance from your eye doctor or optometrist.
What if I Can't Find My Contact Lens?
If you've followed the steps above and still can't find your contact lens, it's likely it has fallen out. Don't continue to rub or probe your eye, as this could cause damage. It's best to remove your other contact lens (if you wear two) and take a break from wearing contacts until you can locate the missing lens or consult your eye doctor.
What if I Think My Contact Lens is Stuck Under My Eyelid?
If you suspect your contact lens is trapped under your eyelid, do not attempt to remove it yourself. Forcing it could scratch your cornea or further irritate your eye. Instead, consult your eye doctor or optometrist for assistance. They have the proper tools and expertise to safely remove the lens.
Is it Harmful to Leave a Contact Lens in Your Eye Overnight?
Leaving a contact lens in your eye overnight is not generally advisable, as this can lead to reduced oxygen supply to the cornea, potentially causing discomfort, irritation, and even infections. It's crucial to always remove your contact lenses before sleeping unless specifically instructed by your eye doctor to do otherwise.
This information is for guidance only and does not replace professional advice. Always consult with your eye doctor or optometrist if you have concerns about your contact lenses or eye health.
