If you use contact lenses, you may have felt the uncomfortable sensation of a lens feeling as though it’s stuck in your eye. This can be distressing, particularly if you’re unsure of how to remove the lens safely.
It might be reassuring to know that experience is more common than you might realize. Fortunately, a shifted lens can be effectively handled with a few straightforward steps without risking your eye health.
You can tell if a contact lens is still in your eye by looking where the colored part of your eye meets the white part. If your lens is still in, it’s usually visible here, even if it’s shifted from its usual position. At times, however, your lens may have simply fallen out unnoticed, causing you to feel like it’s lodged under your eyelid.
Thankfully, due to the anatomy of your eye, a contact lens can’t get lost behind it. However, if you’re unable to find the lens or continue to experience discomfort, it’s helpful to know what steps you can take to get it out safely.
If you’re struggling to remove a lens, it’s time to consult an eye care professional.
Recognizing the Signs of a Stuck Contact Lens
When a contact lens shifts from its normal position, discomfort or irritation can result. Here’s how to recognize if a lens is stuck and determine where it might be:
- Irritation and Discomfort: One of the main signs of a misplaced contact lens is a feeling of irritation or a gritty sensation in your eye. This happens when the lens shifts away from its central position over your cornea.
- Blurred Vision: If one eye suddenly becomes blurry, this could mean that the lens is still in the eye but has moved out of place.
- The Lens Is Visible in the Eye: To locate a lens, gently pull down your lower eyelid or lift your upper eyelid and look in a mirror to see if it’s visible. The lens is often tucked in the fold of your upper eyelid or slightly off-center on the sclera.
- Dry or Hardened Lens: If you nap or accidentally sleep with your contacts in, the lens may dry out and stick to your eye, making it difficult to remove.
Steps to Remove a Stuck Contact Lens
When removing a stuck contact lens, stay calm and avoid using force, as this could scratch your eye. Here’s a safe process to follow:
- Wash Your Hands: Before touching your eyes, wash your hands thoroughly to avoid introducing dirt or bacteria.
- Use Lubricating Eye Drops: If the lens feels dry or difficult to move, apply a few drops of rewetting drops or artificial tears that are safe for contact lenses. The moisture will help the lens soften and become easier to move or remove.
- Blink and Massage: Blink a few times and gently massage your eyelid to help reposition the lens. You can also look in different directions to help the lens settle back into place.
- Flip Your Eyelid: If you suspect the lens is trapped under your upper eyelid, gently flip the eyelid upward to locate it.
- Gently Remove the Lens: Once the lens is visible and moist, use your fingertips to carefully slide it down onto the white part of your eye, then gently pinch it to remove it.
If these steps don’t help, never try to force the lens out—a stuck lens is a sign that it’s time to consult an eye doctor.
When To Seek Help
If you’ve followed these steps but still can’t remove or find your contact lens, schedule an appointment with your optometrist. Continuing to poke at or trying to remove a stuck contact lens on your own may cause more irritation and potential harm to the eye.
An eye care specialist has the proper tools and expertise to locate and safely remove the lens if needed. Additionally, they can provide you with advice on proper lens care to prevent future incidents.
Trust Daniel Island Eye Care for Your Vision Needs
At Daniel Island Eye Care, we know that issues with contact lenses can be frustrating. If you’re dealing with a stuck contact lens or have any other vision concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out. Our team is here to provide personalized, expert eye care to help you feel comfortable and confident with your contact lenses.
Schedule an appointment today, and let us help you maintain your vision health for all of life’s moments.
