If a soft contact lens becomes adherent to the cornea, what should the patient do?

When a soft contact lens adheres to the cornea, the most appropriate action for the patient is to irrigate the eye with saline or rewetting drops. This method can help to relieve the adhesion by providing moisture and lubrication, which facilitates the lens's movement and helps it to detach from the cornea without causing additional irritation or injury.

Irrigating with saline or rewetting drops delivers a solution that can both hydrate the cornea and relieve any dryness that might be contributing to the lens sticking. This approach is safe and minimizes the risk of damaging the delicate surface of the cornea during the removal process. It also helps ensure that the lens remains in a healthy environment, reducing the likelihood of complications.

In contrast, gently rubbing the eye could exacerbate the problem by creating additional friction with the lens, potentially causing injury to the corneal surface. Applying pressure to remove the lens directly can lead to corneal abrasions or damage, especially if the lens is tightly adhered. Leaving the lens in place until it dislodges is not advisable as it can lead to discomfort, corneal hypoxia, or even more serious complications if the lens remains stuck for an extended period. Therefore, irrigation is the best initial step for managing an adher