Abstract
Background: Keratoconus (KC) is a progressive, bilateral, asymmetrical condition characterized by corneal ecstasies and a thin, cone-shaped cornea. Keratoconus can affect visual acuity by inducing myopia and irregular astigmatism. Contact lenses (CL) play an important role in the correction of visual problems due to this condition, but pose certain difficulties. The process of contact lens fitting is usually complex and difficult. A major risk factor for adverse contact lens-related events is lack of patient compliance to required hygiene practices.
Aims: To determine the prevalence of contact lens use as well as the attitudes toward contact lens usage and its complications among keratoconus patients.
Methods and Material: This cross-sectional study included 112 keratoconus patients who were treated with contact lenses; subjects were from different areas of Saudi Arabia. A voluntary self-administered questionnaire was used to collect data regarding prevalence, habits and outcomes of contact lens use among keratoconus patients.
Results: Of 112 respondents, 84.8% were treated with hard lenses, while 23.2% used soft lenses. Complications were reported among 57.1%, the most common being dry eyes. Regarding hygiene habits, 66.3% reported washing their hands before wearing their lenses, while 33.7% did not. Moreover, 69% of the participants made sure that there were no scratches or breaks in the edges of the contact lenses before wearing them. The majority of participants reported that they had never slept with lenses on (68.4%), while 13.7% kept their lenses on during naps.
Conclusions: The results of this study highlight negative habits of contact lens use and complications experienced by users. Although the study shows good practice among keratoconus patients, health education on contact lens hygiene is recommended to improve patient behaviour and prevent severe complications. In addition, further research must be undertaken to evaluate the awareness of contact lens related complications among KC patients.