Eye expert warns people not to panic about losing a contact lens in their eye

Sourced from Unsplash. Photo credit - Vanessa BumbeersSourced from Unsplash. Photo credit - Vanessa Bumbeers
Sourced from Unsplash. Photo credit - Vanessa Bumbeers
Contact Lens Optician, Tina Patel, has answered the internet’s most searched contact lens questions.

Searches for contact lens related queries have skyrocketed, with more than 6,000 people asking Google each month, ‘how can I tell if my contacts are inside out?’

People are also turning to Google for advice on topics like ‘how to remove contacts’ and ‘can you sleep in contacts,’ suggesting that many wearers struggle with comfort and proper usage.

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With this in mind, contact lens expert Tina Patel from leading contact lens retailer Feel Good Contacts has tackled the internet's top contact lens questions to set the record straight:

What happens if you sleep in contacts? (7,510 monthly UK searches)

Sleeping in contact lenses is a common mistake, whether due to sheer exhaustion or simply forgetting after a night out. Unless you’re using lenses specifically designed for overnight wear, sleeping in contacts increases the risk of issues like dry, gritty eyes, corneal abrasions, or even infections such as conjunctivitis.

If you accidentally fall asleep with your lenses in, don’t panic. Wait five to ten minutes after waking to let your eyes rehydrate naturally, then use lubricating eye drops to make removing the lenses easier.

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In cases where this happens frequently, like after naps or nights out, you may want to speak to your optician about switching to extended wear lenses designed for overnight use. However, removing your lenses before sleeping is always the best option to keep your eyes healthy and protected.

How can I tell if my contacts are inside out (6,230 monthly UK searches)

You’re not alone if you’ve ever squinted at your contact lens, wondering which way is up. While putting in a contact lens inside out won’t harm your eye, it can certainly make things less comfortable, so here’s how to tell.

One simple test is to see if the lens resembles a saucepan with flared edges; if it does, it’s inside out and needs flipping. Some lenses include numbers or markings on the rim. If these appear reversed, this is another sign that the lens is the wrong way around.

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Another popular trick is the ‘taco test,’ where you gently squeeze the lens between your fingers. If the edges curl inward like a taco, the lens is correctly positioned. If they flare outward, it’s inside out.

Ultimately, the best way to tell is by the feel of the lens in the eye once inserted. If your vision is blurry or your eye feels scratchy, then it’s likely the wrong way around. Simply remove it, rinse it with solution, and then reinsert it the right way.

How to put in contacts correctly? (3,600 monthly UK searches)

For many, inserting contact lenses when they’re first starting out can feel daunting which explains why this is a common question on the web.

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Over time, applying lenses will become easy with practise, but in the beginning, it’s important to be patient. Start with clean and dry hands to avoid introducing dirt or irritation. Using silicone hydrogel lenses can also make a big difference for beginners, as these are designed for added moisture and comfort.

Make sure your lens is oriented correctly before inserting it, as this avoids discomfort from an inside-out lens. Practice is key, take your time and don’t rush it. If you still experience discomfort or irritation, consult your optician to rule out any underlying issues.

Can a contact lens get stuck behind my eye? (1,900 monthly UK searches)

No, it’s impossible for a contact lens to get stuck behind your eye. However, it can sometimes feel like it’s vanished.

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If this happens, the most important thing to do is stay calm. While a contact lens can’t get stuck behind your eye, it can sometimes shift to an awkward position or even tear. After washing and drying your hands, use lubricating eye drops to moisten your eye, as this will help loosen the lens. Next, close your eye and gently massage your eyelid toward the centre.

This can help guide the lens back to the cornea, making it easier to remove.

For a gas-permeable type, apply plenty of drops and gently remove it once the eye is well hydrated.

Should you find these steps don’t work or you’re struggling to locate the lens, seek help from your optician or visit A&E for professional assistance.

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Tina added: “Contact lenses are an amazing way to improve vision, but proper care and knowledge are essential for keeping your eyes healthy. By answering the most common questions, we hope to help contact lens wearers feel more confident and comfortable”

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