Can You Wear Contacts With Pink Eye?

When it comes to eye health, pink eye (or conjunctivitis) is a common concern that can cause discomfort and concern for those who wear contact lenses. If you find yourself dealing with pink eye, you might wonder if it’s safe or advisable to continue wearing your contacts.

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Understanding Pink Eye

Pink eye, medically known as conjunctivitis, is an inflammation of the conjunctiva, the thin, clear tissue lining the inner surface of the eyelids and covering the white part of the eye. There are several types of pink eye, each with different causes.

• Viral Conjunctivitis: Often caused by the same virus responsible for the common cold. It’s highly contagious and typically accompanied by a watery discharge.
• Bacterial Conjunctivitis: Caused by bacterial infections, it often results in a thicker, yellow or green discharge. It’s also contagious.
• Allergic Conjunctivitis: Triggered by allergens such as pollen or dust, this type usually involves itching, redness, and tearing without discharge.
• Irritant Conjunctivitis: Caused by irritants like smoke, chlorine, or chemical exposure, leading to redness and discomfort.

Should You Wear Contacts with Pink Eye?

In general, it’s recommended to avoid wearing contact lenses when you have pink eye.

• Risk of Worsening: Wearing contacts can exacerbate symptoms of pink eye, particularly if the condition is bacterial or viral. Contacts can trap bacteria or viruses against your eye, potentially worsening the infection and prolonging recovery.
• Contagious: Both viral and bacterial conjunctivitis are contagious. Using contacts during this time can increase the risk of spreading the infection to others. It’s crucial to practice good hygiene, including avoiding contact with shared items and washing hands frequently.
• Discomfort: Pink eye often causes irritation, redness, and discomfort. Wearing contacts can make these symptoms more pronounced and uncomfortable.

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What to Do If You Wear Contacts

• Switch to Glasses: While you’re recovering from pink eye, opt for glasses instead of contacts. This will help prevent further irritation and allow your eyes to heal more quickly.
• Follow Treatment Guidelines: Consult an eye care professional to determine the best course of treatment for your specific type of pink eye. They may recommend eye drops, antibiotics, or other medications depending on the cause.
• Replace Contacts and Cases: If you have had pink eye, it’s important to discard any used contact lenses and clean or replace your lens case. Bacteria or viruses can linger on these items, leading to reinfection.
• Practice Good Hygiene: Always wash your hands before touching your eyes or contact lenses. This is especially crucial when dealing with any type of eye infection.

When Can You Resume Wearing Contacts?

You should only consider resuming contact lens wear after the following conditions are met.

• Full Recovery: Ensure that you’ve fully recovered from pink eye. Your eye should be free of redness, discharge, and irritation.
• Professional Clearance: Get a professional assessment from your eye care provider. They can confirm that your eyes are healthy and that it’s safe to start wearing contacts again.
• Proper Lens Care: Adopt a rigorous lens cleaning routine and consider switching to a new pair of lenses. This will help prevent any residual bacteria or viruses from causing further issues.

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In summary, it’s advisable to avoid wearing contact lenses while dealing with pink eye. Switching to glasses and following proper hygiene and treatment protocols will aid in a faster recovery and reduce the risk of complications. Always consult with your eye care professional for personalized advice and to ensure that your eyes are ready for contact lens wear again.