Maambong warns contact lens users

Provincial Board Member Victor Maambong has filed a resolution reiterating the warning of Philippine Academy of Ophthalmologist (PAO) to contact lens users against corneal infection, which can lead to blindness.

Maambong's resolution followed in view of the alarming number of contact lens wearers who were diagnosed with corneal infections.

Records at the Philippine General Hospital showed that 20 percent of the 35 cases of blindness every year in the country is due to corneal infections.

Studies show that corneal infection is usually caused by bacteria known as fungal keratitis, which breeds in the eyes during overnight use of contact lens.

It is the most serious complication that contact lens wearers face as it can lead to permanent loss of vision.

It was found out that people frequently wearing contact lenses, especially during overnight, are more likely to develop infections. Even better contact lens materials and better solutions to care for lenses have not decreased the number of infections.

Studies have shown that extended wearing of lenses reduces the cornea's ability to protect itself from bacteria and other agents that can cause infections.

As such, eye specialists advised contact lens users to observe proper hygiene and refrain from treating eye irritation by themselves to avoid contracting bacteria. It is advisable that one should wear contact lenses less frequently and for shorter periods to prevent corneal infection.

"The precautionary advice is intended to protect the public from becoming blind because of the bacteria caused by improper treatment," Maambong said in his resolution. - Cristina C. Birondo