Contact lenses offer convenience and visual freedom for millions, but proper care and hygiene are paramount to ensure eye health. Here are some helpful tips tailored to contact lens wearers, that aim to promote optimal eye health and comfortable lens wear.
Wash Hands Thoroughly Before Handling Lenses
Clean hands are a fundamental aspect of contact lens care. Before touching your lenses, make sure to wash your hands with soap and water, and dry them with a lint-free towel. This step prevents dirt, oils, and bacteria from transferring to the lenses and potentially causing irritation or infections.
Follow a Strict Cleaning and Disinfection Routine
Regularly cleaning and disinfecting your contact lenses is essential to prevent buildup of debris and harmful microorganisms. Follow the instructions provided by your eye care professional and use the recommended cleaning solutions.
Stick to The Recommended Wearing Schedule
Different types of contact lenses have varying recommended wearing schedules. Some are designed for daily use, while others are meant to be replaced weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly. Adhering to the prescribed wearing schedule helps maintain the health of your eyes and prevents discomfort or complications.
Remove Lenses Before Swimming or Showering
Exposing contact lenses to water from pools, hot tubs, or showers can introduce harmful bacteria and microorganisms to your eyes. To prevent eye infections, always remove your lenses before swimming or showering. If you accidentally get water in your eyes while wearing lenses, remove them promptly and disinfect them before reinserting.
Use Lubricating Eye Drops for Comfort
Contact lenses can sometimes lead to dry or irritated eyes. To alleviate discomfort, use preservative-free lubricating eye drops recommended by your eye care professional. These drops can provide relief by keeping your eyes moist and comfortable throughout the day.
Keep Your Lens Case Clean
The lens case plays a crucial role in maintaining the cleanliness of your contact lenses. Clean and replace your lens case regularly, using the recommended disinfecting solution to rinse it. Allow the case to air dry upside down to prevent the buildup of moisture that can encourage bacterial growth.
Remove Lenses Before Sleeping
Unless prescribed by your eye care professional, it’s generally recommended to remove your contact lenses before sleeping. Sleeping with lenses in can restrict oxygen flow to the cornea, potentially leading to discomfort and increased risk of eye infections.