![The Longer You Wear Contact Lenses, the More Side Effects You Face [Dr. Oh Young-sam’s IOK Column]](https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhontp1_Rl8f9gyX2ivQrEjMxXbOUc4d0ggC8Uf-gH56XoO5A1SS5_TwXRWWaeMvIOk7gPq5HGYp5XcieeZwsjpF4LR1luWIG9ITm6jhVVASfqKAt_m_BBjPOfkWzW-G1O6dPNtR13T59FABmBWqkcsfQ51TBPQaknqyK-vDAkCdrnLBuH2UoMpVjKfW_s/s1024/jes5455_person_trying_to_wear_contact_lenses_not_glasses_--v_6._bc3be347-c941-4676-b2aa-e41545d5f832.png "The Longer You Wear Contact Lenses, the More Side Effects You Face [Dr. Oh Young-sam’s IOK Column]")
Did you know that wearing contact lenses every day might actually harm your eye health? Many people use lenses for convenience, but prolonged use can lead to serious side effects, including corneal damage, dry eye syndrome, and an increased risk of infections. Are your eyes truly healthy?
The Longer You Wear Lenses, the Higher the Risk
Contact lenses cover the cornea, limiting oxygen supply. The longer you wear them, the higher the chances of corneal swelling, neovascularization, and other complications. According to the Korean Ophthalmological Society, individuals who wear lenses for more than 8 hours a day have more than twice the risk of developing keratitis.
Dr. Oh Young-sam from Gangnam IOK Eye Clinic warns, “Wearing lenses for extended periods can lead to persistent corneal damage and increase vulnerability to bacterial infections. Poor hygiene can further result in severe complications such as bacterial keratitis or corneal ulcers.”
Corneal Damage and Dry Eye Syndrome: Silent but Serious Threats
Prolonged lens wear continuously pressures the cornea, accumulating micro-damage that can directly affect vision. In severe cases, corneal transplantation may be required. Additionally, lenses interfere with the tear film, leading to dryness and exacerbating dry eye syndrome.
A 2019 study by the Korean Ophthalmological Society found that 70% of individuals who had worn lenses daily for over five years experienced severe dry eye symptoms, with 30% reporting discomfort that significantly impacted their daily lives.
Reduce Lens Wear Time and Get Regular Checkups
How can you minimize lens-related side effects? The best approach is to limit lens wear to under 8 hours per day and alternate with glasses to allow your eyes to rest. Regular eye checkups are also essential to monitor eye health.
Dr. Oh advises, “Proper hygiene and limited wearing time are crucial when using lenses. If you experience any discomfort, remove your lenses immediately and consult an eye specialist.”
Are your eyes truly healthy? If you’re experiencing any discomfort, why not review your lens-wearing habits and seek expert advice today?
[Column Provided by]
Gangnam IOK Eye Clinic, Dr. Oh Young-sam
📞 02-6949-0088
🌐 www.iokeyes.com
📖 https://blog.naver.com/iokoys
