Colored Contacts: The Blind Spot in Beauty

Contact lenses are a popular form of vision correction, but they can also be used for cosmetic purposes. Many women use colored contact lenses to change the color of their eyes or to enhance their natural eye color. However, as with any form of contact lens wear, there are certain complications that can arise, particularly with improper hygiene and lens care. Two of the most concerning complications are corneal ulcers caused by pseudomonas and acanthamoeba.

Corneal ulcers are open sores on the surface of the cornea, the clear outer layer of the eye. They can be caused by a variety of factors, including bacterial or fungal infections, trauma, or exposure to certain chemicals. In the case of contact lens wear, corneal ulcers can be caused by poor hygiene or improper lens care.

Pseudomonas is a type of bacteria that is commonly found in soil and water. It can cause serious infections, including corneal ulcers, in people who wear contact lenses. Pseudomonas can thrive on the surface of contact lenses, particularly if the lenses are not cleaned and disinfected properly. Symptoms of a pseudomonas corneal ulcer include redness, pain, and light sensitivity. If left untreated, a pseudomonas corneal ulcer can lead to serious complications, including blindness.

Acanthamoeba is a type of microorganism that can cause serious infections in the eye, particularly in people who wear contact lenses. It is found in soil, water, and air, and can thrive on the surface of contact lenses. Symptoms of an acanthamoeba infection include redness, pain, light sensitivity, and blurry vision. If left untreated, an acanthamoeba infection can lead to serious complications, including blindness.

To prevent corneal ulcers caused by pseudomonas and acanthamoeba, it's important to practice good hygiene and lens care. This includes washing your hands before handling your lenses, cleaning and disinfecting your lenses as directed by the manufacturer, and replacing your lenses as recommended. It's also important to avoid wearing your lenses in water and to remove them if you experience any symptoms of an infection.

If you suspect that you have a corneal ulcer, it's important to seek medical attention right away. Treatment may include antibiotics or antiviral medications, and in some cases, surgery may be necessary to remove the infected tissue.

It's important to note that colored contact lenses, particularly those that are not prescribed by an eye care professional, may increase the risk of complications. These lenses may not fit properly and may not be made of materials that are safe for the eye. It is crucial to always purchase contact lenses from a reputable source, and to follow the instructions for use and care provided by the manufacturer.

In conclusion, colored contact lenses can be a fun and fashionable way to enhance your natural eye color. However, it is important to be aware of the potential complications that can arise from contact lens wear. To minimize the risk of complications, it's crucial to practice good hygiene and lens care, and to seek medical attention if you suspect an infection. With proper precautions and care, you can enjoy the benefits of colored contact lenses without compromising the health of your eyes.