Zombies beware: Costume contact lenses could cause eye problems

Wannabe zombies and vampires beware:

Before you pop in those non-prescription costume contact lenses, you may want to consider a warning by the American Academy of Ophthalmology that they may cause infections and other eye issues.

Research has shown chlorine or iron were found in some types of non-prescription costume contact lenses, according to information on the organization’s website. The chemicals may come from colorants used to tint and create playful patterns on the lenses.

Some lenses may also have uneven textures that can scratch the cornea.

Although some of the lenses are not available legally in the United States and are not approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, many decorative lenses of unknown origin can be bought online or , around Halloween, at some gas stations.

“A lot of times these contacts don’t sit well in the eye and can cause a corneal abrasion or infection,” said Dr. Elma Chang, an ophthalmologist with Atlanta Ophthalmology Associates. And sometimes they don’t come with instructions.

She advises people to get an eye exam first to see if they are qualified to wear contact lenses and , if so, get an individual prescription.

In addition to potential eye health risk, Chang said people may find themselves out of a lot of money and time repairing the damage.

“People who go for costume or decorative lenses tend to be younger and therefore, may think they’re invincible,” she said. “

Four potential problems using non-prescription costume contacts

• Over-the-counter lenses are not fitted and sized for the person wearing the contacts, so they can easily scrape the outer layer of the eye, causing corneal abrasions Such conditions can cause discharge, pain, redness and light sensitivity.

• A corneal ulcer may cause symptoms similar to corneal abrasions. The ulcers sometimes appear as a white dot on the iris, the colored part of the eye, and may require treatment with medicated eye drops. When the ulcers heal, they can scar over and permanently and adversely affect vision.