What signs and symptoms indicate an allergic reaction to contact lens solutions?

The signs and symptoms indicating an allergic reaction to contact lens solutions typically include irritation, redness, fogging, and a decreased tolerated wearing time. When a person has an allergic reaction to the chemicals present in contact lens solutions, this can lead to discomfort and visible changes in the eyes.

Irritation and redness are common responses of the eye to allergens, which can result from exposure to preservatives or other components found in lens solutions. Fogging can occur as a subjective visual disturbance, making contact lenses feel uncomfortable or less clear, which in turn can lead to a reduced comfort level and the wearer's ability to tolerate wearing them for extended periods.

In contrast, severe pain and purulent discharge suggest an infection rather than an allergic reaction, and persistent blinking with excessive tearing may indicate other ocular conditions that aren't necessarily related to allergies. Itching and visual distortion can also occur but are not as specific to allergic reactions to lens solutions as the combination of irritation, redness, fogging, and decreased wear time. Thus, the first response encompasses the primary signs of an allergic reaction specific to lens care products.