Can I Wear Contacts with a Popped Blood Vessel?
I once had a day where I was looking forward to wearing my beautiful new contacts, but then I woke up with a bloodshot eye. I couldn’t believe it! I was so disappointed, but I also knew that I shouldn’t wear contacts with a popped blood vessel. I didn’t want to make my eye worse or get an infection.
If you’re wondering whether or not you can wear contacts with a popped blood vessel, the answer is no. A popped blood vessel, also known as a subconjunctival hemorrhage, is a common eye condition that occurs when a small blood vessel in the conjunctiva (the clear membrane that covers the white part of the eye) bursts. This can cause the eye to look red and bloodshot.
What Causes a Popped Blood Vessel in the Eye?
There are many things that can cause a popped blood vessel in the eye, including:
- Trauma to the eye (e.g., getting hit in the eye or rubbing it too hard)
- Coughing or sneezing forcefully
- Straining during a bowel movementLifting heavy objects
- Taking certain medications (e.g., aspirin, ibuprofen, and blood thinners)
- Having certain medical conditions (e.g., diabetes and hypertension)
In most cases, a popped blood vessel in the eye is harmless and will resolve on its own within a few days. However, it is important to see a doctor if you have a popped blood vessel in the eye and you also experience:
- Pain
- Vision changes
- Floaters (dark spots or lines that appear in your vision)
These symptoms could indicate a more serious eye condition, such as a retinal tear or detachment.
Why You Shouldn’t Wear Contacts with a Popped Blood Vessel
There are a few reasons why you shouldn’t wear contacts with a popped blood vessel:
- Contacts can irritate the eye. The rough edges of the contact lens can rub against the conjunctiva and cause further irritation and discomfort.
- Contacts can trap bacteria. The moist environment under the contact lens can provide a breeding ground for bacteria, which can lead to an infection.
- Contacts can compress the blood vessel. This can prevent the blood vessel from healing properly and could lead to further bleeding.
Tips for Dealing with a Popped Blood Vessel in the Eye
If you have a popped blood vessel in the eye, there are a few things you can do to help it heal:
- Use a cold compress. Applying a cold compress to the eye can help reduce swelling and pain.
- Take over-the-counter pain relievers. Acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help relieve pain and discomfort.
- Avoid wearing contacts. As mentioned above, contacts can irritate the eye and make it more difficult for the blood vessel to heal.
- See a doctor if necessary. If you have a popped blood vessel in the eye and you also experience pain, vision changes, or floaters, see a doctor right away.
FAQ on Wearing Contacts with a Popped Blood Vessel
Q: Can I wear contacts with a popped blood vessel?
A: No, you should not wear contacts with a popped blood vessel.
Q: Why not?
A: Contacts can irritate the eye, trap bacteria, and compress the blood vessel, which can prevent it from healing properly.
Q: How long does it take for a popped blood vessel in the eye to heal?
A: Most popped blood vessels in the eye will heal on their own within a few days.
Q: What should I do if I have a popped blood vessel in the eye?
A: You can use a cold compress, take over-the-counter pain relievers, and avoid wearing contacts. If you have pain, vision changes, or floaters, see a doctor right away.
Conclusion
If you have a popped blood vessel in the eye, it is important to avoid wearing contacts. Contacts can irritate the eye, trap bacteria, and compress the blood vessel, which can prevent it from healing properly. If you have any questions or concerns, be sure to talk to your doctor.
Are you interested in learning more about eye care? Check out our other blog posts on the topic.
