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Eye infections and Orthokeratology
Orthokeratology lens wear, like any other contact
lens wear, may lead to various side effects, the
most serious of which is eye infection (also called
corneal ulcer or microbial keratitis).
The risk of an eye infection with daily wear of
soft contact lenses is 1/2500 eyes per year while
the risk in extended (continuous) wear is 1/500
eyes per year. Orthokeratology is a unique form
of contact lens wear because lenses are worn overnight
only, for an average of eight hours, with no lens
wear during the day. As yet the relative risk
of eye infection with orthokeratology contact
lenses, compared to other forms of contact lens
wear, is unknown. Although the risk of an eye
infection is low, an infection can develop rapidly
and may lead to reduced vision in rare cases.
Recent investigations have greatly enhanced our
knowledge of the risk factors associated with
overnight orthokeratology lens wear and hence
our ability to reduce your risks of developing
an eye infection.
Strategies that will reduce the risk of an eye
infection include the following:
- Always wash your hands with soap and warm
water before handling your orthokeratology
lenses.
- Never rinse or store your contact lenses
in tap water.
- Clean and disinfect your contact lenses
according to your practitioners directions
every time you remove them from your eyes.
- After lens insertion, empty the solution
from your lens case and rinse it with sterile
saline or lens storage solution. Dry the case
and lid by air drying or using a clean tissue
and leave the case opened in a safe dry place.
Every week, thoroughly scrub your lens case
rinsing it with sterile saline or lens storage
solution and leave it to dry as usual. Replace
your lens case at least every three months,
or more frequently if recommended by your
practitioner.
- If you experience any unusual redness, discomfort,
or poor vision, especially in one eye only,
remove your lenses, rinse and reinsert the
lenses. If the problem persists, remove your
lenses and contact your eye care practitioner
as soon as possible. Never sleep in your lenses
if they are uncomfortable or you have a heavy
cold or flu.
- Have your eyes and contact lenses examined
every six months, even if you are not experiencing
problems.
The chances of getting an eye infection are minimised
by following all instructions provided by your
practitioner regarding wearing schedules and lens
and case care procedures. However, if a problem
occurs or if you have any concerns, remove your
lenses and contact your practitioner as soon as
possible. |
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