Giant Papillary Conjunctivitis (GPC) is where conjunctiva (mucus membranes) in the upper lid are inflamed and the glands enlarge producing mucus and causing discomfort or itching. IT IS NOT CONTAGIOUS. It is not an infection. Protein coating and lipid deposits on soft lenses are common causes of GPC. The use of disposable lenses has made GPC much less prevalent.

Giant bumps under the upper lid cause one not to be able to wear contact lenses comfortably. Photos SEC

WHAT CAUSES GPC? SYMPTOMS OF GPC

In the mild stage, reduced contact lens wearing time is the most common symptom. Many factors can affect comfortable wearing time, such as lack of sleep, environmental irritants, or dry eyes. However, persistent loss of wearing time, in the absence of identifiable reasons, may indicate an early stage of giant papillary conjunctivitis.

GPC - A major disappointment to contact lens wears

​​​​​​​Giant papillary conjunctivitis can be a disappointing, discouraging condition since it is primarily caused by the long-term use of contact lenses. Some contact lens wearers who have enjoyed wearing lenses for many years become intolerant and must either return to glasses, go to one-day disposable lenses or have LASIK.

Preventative measures for Soft lens wearers:

• Good care of your lenses: cleaning, disinfecting, and soaking with solutions recommended by your eye care professional

• More frequent replacement of disposable lenses

• Change to daily disposable lenses

Preventative measures for gas-permeable lenses should include:

• Daily cleaning and disinfecting with recommended solutions which may include periodic enzymatic cleaning at intervals recommended by the doctor

• Have your lenses polished at least 1x/a yr

WHAT CAUSES GPC? SYMPTOMS OF GPC

In the mild stage, reduced contact lens wearing time is the most common symptom. Many factors can affect comfortable wearing time, such as lack of sleep, environmental irritants, or dry eyes. However, persistent loss of wearing time, in the absence of identifiable reasons, may indicate an early stage of giant papillary conjunctivitis.

GPC - A major disappointment to contact lens wears

​​​​​​​Giant papillary conjunctivitis can be a disappointing, discouraging condition since it is primarily caused by the long-term use of contact lenses. Some contact lens wearers who have enjoyed wearing lenses for many years become intolerant and must either return to glasses, go to one-day disposable lenses or have LASIK.

GIANT PAPILLARY CONJUNCTIVITIS IS EASIER TO PREVENT THAN CURE

Even though we do not know exactly what causes giant papillary conjunctivitis, we do know that protein deposits are likely a contributing factor, so meticulous attention to cleaning is important. In addition, a well-fitted pair of contact lenses is essential to prevent problems such as giant papillary conjunctivitis.

CORNEAL ULCER / MISC.

• Depending on the cause, treatment will very often be using a combination of the therapies listed below.

• Do not use "Visine" or any other product to "get the red out," unless instructed by an eye care professional. These products many times mask a more severe underlying condition.

• If you have pain or light sensitivity by itself or with other symptoms, stop all contact lens wear immediately and call the office describing your symptoms. We will get you an appointment that day. You may have a CORNEAL ULCER, which can cause permanent scarring and reduction of vision.

SIGNS SYMPTOMS

• Pain, Redness, discharge, burning, tearing, pain, light sensitivity, eyes stuck together, swollen eyelids

TREATMENT

• Discontinue Contact lens wear

• Antibiotic drops

• Steroid drops

• Artificial Tears