Have you ever felt “a gritty sensation in your eyes recently” or “difficulty wearing contact lenses for long periods”?
It may not just be dry eye, but Giant Papillary Conjunctivitis (GPC).

＜What is GPC?＞
GPC is a chronic inflammatory condition characterized by large papillae on the inner surface of the eyelids.
Normally, the inner eyelid is smooth, but persistent inflammation leads to a bumpy surface.
It is commonly seen in contact lens users, where friction causes discomfort.

＜Why does it occur?＞
It results from mechanical irritation and allergic reactions.
Main causes include:

• ・Long-term lens wear
• ・Protein deposits and debris
• ・Overuse beyond replacement schedule
• ・Poor hygiene
• ・Allergic predisposition

In other words, the immune response is more about the deposits attached to the lens than the lens itself.

＜Symptoms＞
Early:

• ・Itching
• ・Foreign body sensation
• ・Redness
• ・Discomfort

Advanced:

• ・Mucus discharge
• ・Lens displacement
• ・Reduced wearing time
• ・Blurred vision

“Contact lenses that were previously fine suddenly become uncomfortable” is an important sign.

＜Diagnosis＞
Eyelid eversion is performed to assess papillae and inflammation.
Since patients cannot confirm their symptoms themselves, please seek medical attention as soon as possible if the symptoms persist.

＜Treatment＞
1. Discontinue wearing contact lenses.
The most important thing is to remove the irritant.
Improvement should occur after discontinuing wear for a period of time.

2. Eye drop treatment.
Use according to symptoms:

• ・Anti-allergy eye drops
• ・Anti-inflammatory eye drops (non-steroidal)
• ・Steroid eye drops (short-term use for severe cases)

3. Contact lens selection to prevent recurrence.
After recovery, pay attention to:

• ・Switch to daily disposable lenses
• ・Shorten the wearing time
• ・Properly clean and rub the lenses
• ・Replace contact lenses regularly.

＜Recovery time＞

• ・Mild: 2–4 weeks
• ・Moderate: 1–3 months
• ・Severe: several months

＜If untreated＞

• ・Difficulty wearing lenses
• ・Chronic inflammation
• ・Corneal damage
• ・Vision decline

The above risks apply.
If it feels “slightly out of place,” don’t underestimate it.

＜Prevention＞

• ・Avoid long wear
• ・Remove before sleep
• ・Clean properly
• ・Regular checkups in every 3～6 months

＜Summary＞
Giant papillary conjunctivitis is a common condition among contact lens wearers.
However, with early detection and proper care, most cases can be improved.
If you experience symptoms such as itching, a foreign body sensation, or discomfort from prolonged contact lens use, please consult a doctor promptly.