Connection between contact lens usage and headaches outlined
In the world of contact lenses, comfort and safety are paramount. While they offer a convenient alternative to glasses, complications can arise if not properly cared for or if the prescription is incorrect.
Complications from contact lens wear can range from minor issues like dry eye and allergies to more serious conditions such as corneal ulcers, corneal abrasions, keratitis, giant papillary conjunctivitis, neovascularization, and contact lens-induced acute red eye.
To avoid these complications, it's crucial to follow proper contact lens care guidelines. This includes washing hands before handling, rinsing lenses in fresh contact lens disinfecting solution, not sleeping in lenses unless prescribed, taking out lenses before showering or swimming, cleaning contact lens cases with contact lens solution, drying them with a clean tissue, replacing the case every 3 months, and visiting an eye care professional yearly or as often as recommended.
Incorrect contact lens prescription and poor fit can cause headaches primarily through eye strain, discomfort, and irritation. An outdated or incorrect prescription forces your eyes to work harder to focus, leading to muscle fatigue and headaches. Similarly, lenses that don't fit properly can irritate the eye or cause dryness, both of which contribute to discomfort and headache symptoms.
To prevent headaches related to contact lenses, it is crucial to:
- Get a comprehensive eye exam to ensure your prescription is accurate and up-to-date.
- Have an eye care professional measure and fit your lenses correctly to your eye shape.
- Address issues like dryness or irritation, which may require switching lens types or using lubricating drops.
- Consult your eye doctor if headaches persist, as they can recommend alternative lens materials or designs tailored to your needs.
Rigid gas permeable lenses, known for their durability and resistance to deposit accumulation, are often beneficial for those with astigmatism or keratoconus. On the other hand, soft lenses, while flexible and comfortable, are less durable. Finding the right contact lenses involves considering the correct prescription and fit, with the base curve being an important factor in determining how well they fit the eye.
It's also important to note that while it's uncommon for eyestrain caused by an incorrect prescription to cause headaches, contact lenses may cause headaches in some cases. In these instances, returning to contact lenses with a more properly fitting base curve can alleviate eye discomfort and reduce the frequency of migraine headaches.
However, if you experience symptoms like light sensitivity, red eyes, sudden blurry vision, worsening pain, discharge, or unusually watery eyes, remove your contacts and consult a doctor if symptoms last longer than 2 hours or worsen.
In summary, ensuring the right contact lens prescription and proper fit is key to avoiding headaches, and this requires regular eye exams and professional fitting tailored to your eyes and lifestyle. By following these guidelines, you can enjoy the benefits of contact lenses while minimising potential complications.
Science and health-and-wellness are not limited to the physical aspects; they also encompass mental health. Migraines, for example, can be linked to incorrect contact lens prescription or poor fit, causing discomfort and straining the eyes, which may lead to migraines. To manage pain associated with headaches and migraines caused by contact lenses, it's advisable to seek professional medical advice and make necessary adjustments to your lenses or prescription. Regular eye examinations and proper lens care, as mentioned previously, play an integral role in promoting overall eye health and wellness.
