Getting a contact lens stuck in your eye can be frustrating and uncomfortable, especially if you're new to wearing them. However, there's no need to panic. With some patience and the right techniques, you can safely and effectively remove a stuck contact lens. In this article, we will provide you with a comprehensive guide on how to remove different types of stuck contact lenses, along with some emergency tips.

Why Contact Lenses Get Stuck:

Contact lenses can become stuck in your eye due to various reasons, such as improper lens care or wearing them while sleeping. When lenses are not stored correctly or worn during sleep, they can dry out and adhere to the eye's surface, making them difficult to remove. It's important to understand why this happens to effectively address the issue.

Sometimes, the damage to colored contact lenses is caused by inadequate cleaning. ICOICE provides professional cleaning tools to help you clean them more effectively.

Removing a Stuck Soft Contact Lens:

Soft contact lenses can get stuck in different areas of the eye. Here's how you can remove them based on their location:

1, contact lens in the center of the eye:

• Begin by wetting the stuck lens with a contact lens solution or rewetting drops.
• Close your eye and gently rub the upper eyelid for a few seconds. This motion should help loosen the lens.
• If the lens doesn't move, repeat the process of rewetting and massaging the eyelid. Blinking frequently can also aid in distributing the moisture around the stuck lens.
• Once the lens starts to move, you can remove it from your eye using the usual technique.
• Note: If your eye feels irritated after removing the lens, apply artificial tears or sterile saline to lubricate it. If the irritation persists, seek prompt assistance from an optician, as it may indicate a corneal abrasion.

2, A contact lens off the center of the eye:

If the soft lens is stuck under the upper or lower eyelid, look in the opposite direction of where it's stuck.

• Rub the eyelid gently, blinking in turns to help move the lens toward the center of the eye.
• Once the lens is in the center, it's no longer stuck, and you can remove it using your usual method. If it doesn't come off easily, apply a few drops of sterile saline to loosen it.

Removing a Stuck Gas Permeable Contact Lens:

Gas permeable (GP) contact lenses are rigid and require a different approach for removal to prevent damage to the eye. Follow these steps:

GP lens stuck on the white of the eye:

• To release the suction holding the lens, gently press your eye at the edge of the lens.
• Once the suction is broken, you can easily remove the lens.

Using a suction device:

• Alternatively, you can use a suction device specifically designed for this purpose. These devices are available at most contact lens stores.
• Press the concave-shaped suction end of the device onto the center of the stuck lens and gently pull it along with the lens to remove it.

What to Do If the Lens Gets Stuck Elsewhere:

In some cases, contact lenses may get stuck in areas other than the center of the eye. Follow these steps to locate and remove the lens:

• Feel around the eyelids to locate the stuck lens.
• Look in the opposite direction and massage the eyelid, following the steps mentioned earlier for removing a lens off the center of the eye.
• Be patient, as this process may take some time. Take short breaks if needed. Eventually, the lens should move to the center of the eye for easy removal.

Emergency Tips for Broken and Stuck Contact Lenses:

While rare, contact lenses can break and become stuck in the eye. To prevent eye damage, follow these emergency tips:

• Avoid wearing broken or torn lenses, as they can scratch your cornea or release small pieces into your eye.
• Always inspect your contacts before wearing them. Discard any broken lenses and replace them with a new pair.
• If a lens breaks while wearing it, remove it immediately. Use your fingertip to gently pull out any broken-off pieces. If you can't locate or see a piece, seek assistance from an eye doctor.
• Use eye drops or sterile saline to remove a stuck lens, but never use tap water, as it can introduce bacteria to your eye.
• Familiarize yourself with proper contact lens handling techniques to avoid breaking or tearing them. Store your lenses floating in a solution to prevent damage when closing the case lid.
• If you experience a contact lens emergency, visit your eye doctor for professional assistance, whether it's a broken lens or persistent irritation after removing a stuck lens.

Conclusion:

Although getting a contact lens stuck can be distressing, it's essential to stay calm and follow the appropriate techniques for safe removal. By understanding the reasons why lenses get stuck and employing the right methods, you can successfully remove them. Remember to seek professional help if needed, and prioritizethe health and safety of your eyes.