More BrandsRecent estimates put the proportion of allergy sufferers in the western world at between 20% and 40% of the population. A large number of those people are suffering from allergic conjunctivitis. However, this condition does not preclude contact lens wear but success depends on a strategic approach that starts with identifying allergic patients. The next step should be to provide them with options to manage their allergy symptoms, making contact lens wear comfortable, according to a paper published in the March issue of Contact Lenses Today.
The authors of the article, optometrists Mile Brujic and David Kading, suggest the prescription of daily disposable lenses where possible. In this way, the allergens and histamine that may have stuck to the lenses can be thrown away together with the contacts at the end of the day. Where this is not an option, Brujic and Kading suggest a two-step approach: the first step is to advise patients to modify their environment so as to avoid or eliminate suspected allergens; the second step is to subject the allergy sufferer to a refresher course in proper lens care, with particular attention paid to rubbing and rinsing procedures.
Eye care practitioners are also strongly advised to ask their patients to bring storage cases, solutions and eye drops when turning up for an appointment. A look at these accoutrements will tell the doctor whether a patient adheres to instructions and takes proper care of the lenses. Should the contact lens wearer continue to experience discomfort, a hydrogen peroxide care system could prove helpful given the particularly strong disinfecting properties of this solution.
