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.

James Oliver is an Optician in the UK. He writes for http://www.buy-contact-lenses-online.info and also http://www.about-lasik-surgery.com