How would I know if I have an eye infection or a corneal ulcer?

Wearing contact lenses puts you at a higher risk for infections and ulcers. A good "rule of thumb" to keep in mind is the RSVP rule:

• Redness - can be one eye or both
• Secretions - can be tearing, clear stringy mucous, yellow or green sticky mucous
• Vision changes - typically mild to moderate decrease in vision or blurring
• Pain - may be aching, sharp, dull, or just uncomfortable

If you have any of these symptoms, it is essential that you remove your contact lenses immediately. For this reason, it is important to always have an up-to-date pair of back-up glasses. Do not attempt to treat a red eye yourself; go to your eye doctor as soon as possible. Non-preserved artificial tears may be used, however avoid Visine and other "get the red out" drops, and do not use someone else’s eye medications.