It’s probably a familiar moment for anyone who wears contact lenses: That flicker of doubt after a long day of classes or a late-night study session. You think you took your lens out, but your vision feels a little off, or you have a nagging feeling that something is still there. A soft contact lens can sometimes fold or slide from the center of your eye, leading to a moment of confusion, or for some, fear.
We completely understand feeling this way, but rest assured that this is a common situation that you can usually resolve on your own. A few simple, calm steps can help you determine if a lens is still in your eye and remove it safely.
Common Signs and Symptoms of a Trapped Lens
Your eye can feel a lot, and will often give you clues if a contact lens is stuck or has moved out of place. Before you do anything else, pause and check for any of these common signs. Paying attention to what your eyes are telling you is important.
- Sudden blurry or cloudy vision.
- A feeling that something is in your eye.
- Mild discomfort or a scratchy sensation.
- Unusual redness or watering of the eye.
- A gritty feeling when you blink.
Reasons a Contact Lens May Fall Out
It might seem strange, but a soft contact lens can fall out without you even noticing it. It doesn’t happen often, as modern lenses are designed for a stable fit when cared for properly. However rare, certain activities or accidents can dislodge a lens, so if you can’t find it in your eye, it may have already made its exit.
When a Lens Might Disappear
Your lens is more likely to fall out in a few specific situations. A sudden movement or impact can sometimes be enough to break the gentle hold your contact has on your eye. You might lose a lens if you:
- Rub your eyes vigorously.
- Engage in active sports.
- Get splashed with water directly in your face.
Safe Steps to Locate and Remove a Stuck Contact
If you believe a lens is still in your eye, the key is to stay calm and methodical. You can usually find and remove it with a few gentle steps at home. Remember, it’s physically impossible for a lens to get lost behind your eye. A thin membrane called the conjunctiva connects your eyelid to your eyeball and acts as a barrier.
What to Do First
Before you begin your search, set yourself up for success in a clean, well-lit space. Have your supplies ready so you can work without interruption. Following these steps can help you safely locate the lens.
- Wash your hands: Always start by washing your hands thoroughly with soap and water. Dry them with a lint-free towel to avoid introducing any fuzz or debris into your eye.
- Add moisture: Use a sterile saline solution or contact lens rewetting drops to lubricate your eye. This moisture helps the lens move more freely and can make it easier to find and remove.
- Look carefully: Stand in front of a well-lit mirror to get a clear view. Gently pull your upper eyelid up while looking down, then pull your lower eyelid down while looking up to check all visible areas.
- Try a gentle massage: Close your eye and very gently massage your eyelid in a circular motion with your fingertip. This can sometimes shift a folded or displaced lens to a more central, visible spot.
What to Avoid When a Lens Is Stuck
While you’re trying to find the lens, what you don’t do is just as important as what you do. Certain actions can potentially scratch your cornea (the clear outer layer of your eye) or cause more irritation, turning a minor issue into a more serious one. Since a contact lens rests directly on the cornea, unlike glasses, a gentle approach is a good idea: Remember, your eye’s surface is delicate.
Resist the Urge to Rush
To protect your eyes, it’s important to resist the urge to take shortcuts. Rushing the process or using improper tools can lead to problems. Be sure to avoid these actions while you’re trying to find the lens.
- Don’t use your fingernails, tweezers, or any other sharp object to retrieve the lens.
- Avoid rubbing your eye too hard, as this pressure can cause damage.
- Never put a new contact lens in the eye until you are certain the old one is out.
When to Get Professional Help for a Stuck Lens
Most of the time, you can remove a stuck lens on your own with a little patience. However, there are times when it’s a good idea to get professional help. If you’ve tried the steps above without success or if you start to experience more significant symptoms, it’s a good idea to seek assistance.
Signs You Need an Appointment
Don’t hesitate to reach out for support if the situation doesn’t resolve easily. An eye care professional has the right tools and techniques to help. Consider making an appointment if you experience any of the following:
- Sharp pain or significant discomfort.
- Persistent redness that doesn’t go away.
- Your vision stays very blurry after you think the lens is out.
- You can’t remove the lens after several calm attempts.
If you’re a student or faculty member in the area, a local optometrist in Austin, Texas, can safely remove the lens for you. During an adult eye exam, we can also check for any minor scratches on your eye. It may also be a good opportunity to discuss if different lenses or other types of quality eyewear might be a good fit for your active campus lifestyle.
Don’t Panic: We Can Help
Your eye health is our priority, and that includes helping you feel comfortable and confident with your contact lenses. If you ever have a question or need assistance, our team at Eclectic Eyewear is here to help. Schedule an appointment with us for friendly and approachable care.
