Did my contact go behind my eye? This question can strike fear into the hearts of contact lens wearers, especially those who are new to the world of vision correction. It’s a common concern, and understanding what happens if this happens can help you manage your contacts more effectively and safely.
When you insert contact lenses, they are designed to sit on the cornea, the clear front part of your eye. However, due to various reasons, such as a misaligned lens, a blink, or a sudden movement, a contact lens can end up behind the eye. This can be quite uncomfortable and may even cause temporary vision problems.
Firstly, if you feel that your contact lens has gone behind your eye, it’s important not to panic. The lens is usually still in the eye, just in a different position than intended. Try to remain calm and follow these steps:
1.
Keep your eyes wide open and blink several times. Sometimes, the lens will move back to its correct position on the cornea with a blink.
2.
Use artificial tears or eye drops to moisten your eyes. This can help the lens move more freely and may allow it to reposition itself.
3.
Do not rub your eyes. This can cause the lens to move further behind the eye or even damage the cornea.
4.
If the lens is still behind your eye after trying these steps, remove your contacts using proper technique. Wash your hands thoroughly, then use a contact lens solution to moisten the lens. Gently slide your finger along the lower eyelid to pull it down, and use your other hand to pull up on the upper eyelid. This will create a pocket where you can grasp the lens and remove it.
In some cases, if the lens has moved behind the eye, it may be difficult to remove it without assistance. If you’re unable to remove the lens yourself, seek help from an eye care professional. They can safely remove the lens and examine your eye to ensure there is no damage.
Preventing contact lenses from going behind the eye involves proper handling and insertion techniques. Always follow your eye care professional’s instructions for inserting and removing your contacts. Additionally, consider these tips:
1.
Keep your contact lens case clean and replace the solution regularly.
2.
Do not touch the lens with your fingers, as this can contaminate it.
3.
Use fresh contact lenses each day to reduce the risk of complications.
4.
Do not sleep in your contact lenses unless they are specifically designed for overnight wear.
Remember, if you ever have concerns about your contact lenses, it’s important to consult with an eye care professional. They can provide guidance on proper contact lens care and address any issues you may have, including the rare occurrence of a contact lens going behind the eye.
