Contact lens
Contact Lenses Online - Good But Don't Forget the Bad!
We all know that the internet has changed all our lives in many
different ways, not least for the consumer of virtually any
product. A classic example of this is the ability to order
contact lenses online. At one time, a customer with a sight
defect was generally known as a patient, and therefore the
method of 'treatment' was exclusively in the hands of the
professional, i.e Ophththalmologist, Optometrist or Optician. In
the progressively impatient world where speed, convenience and
costs are major factors in our lives this is no longer the case.
While it may be a good thing for some it is not without it's
pitfalls. Although it is law in many countries to be able to
make a supply of contact lenses only when a valid dated
prescription is produced, it seems that this aspect of the law
can often be overlooked due to the international nature of the
internet.
Maybe the role of Optician is no longer valued to the consumer,
customer or patient whichever you wish to call them, but it is
essential that the protection of their eyesight is maintained.
It is the duty of suppliers to make it clear to their
'customers' the importance of regular check-ups and aftercare.
Many of the products nowadays are exceptionally good and the
onset of disposable lenses in recent years has definately helped
reduce a lot of contact lens related eye problems. However there
are still complications that do occur from time to time. These
range from mild irritation or symptoms of dryness, to major
corneal disease.
When buying contact lenses online it is important to remember
the implications this can have on ocular health. Often contact
lens related eye problems can go unnoticed and sometimes have no
symptoms at all.
If a subjects eyes ever go red or sore they should remove their
lenses immediately. If the symptoms don't recede very quickly
they should consult an eyecare professional straight away.
Some common reactions that need professional help are as follows:
Superior Epithelial Arcuate Lesions (SEALS) is a mechanical
injury to the corneal cells, which is characterised by an
arc-like lesion at the superior corneal periphery. Symptoms
range from none to foreign body sensation or lens edge awareness.
Infiltrative Keratitis is an inflammatory reaction of the
cornea, which has symptoms of mild to moderate irritation,
redness and occasional discharge.
Contact Lens Acute Red Eye (CLARE) is an inflammatory reaction
of the cornea and conjunctiva, which is characterised by a
small, focal and diffuse peripheral corneal infiltration. Often
there is no symptoms prior to eye closure but patients are often
awoken from sleep by symptoms or soon after waking. The symptoms
are irritation to moderate pain, redness,tearing and photophobia
(light sensitivity).
Contact Lens Induced Peripheral Ulcer (CLPU) is another
inflammatory reaction of the cornea which is characterised by a
lesion in the corneal epithelium (surface cells) and
infiltration of the anterior stroma (the middle layer of the
cornea). The symptoms range from none to severe to moderate
pain, irritation or foreign body sensation. Also there will
usually be redness and tearing.
Contact Lens Papillary Conjunctivitis(CLPC) is a mechanical /
inflammatory reaction of the upper eyelid characterised by
localised papillae and hyperaemia (a cobblestone appearance)
with fine mucous strands on the cornea. Symptoms are itching,
lens awareness, increased mucous and intermittant blurring. The
lens will also not appear to be fitting very well due to
pressure from the papillae.
There are many other contact lens related conditions and if
there is any doubt an eyecare professional must be consulted
immediately. Also despite the convenience of online ordering it
is imperative that a customers visit their optician for routine
scheduled aftercare visits.
Online contact lens ordering is here to stay, but always
remember prevention is better than cure.