Eye Care Tips for Contact Lens Wearers

Photo by Pavel Danilyuk

Wearing contact lenses can be a convenient and liberating way to correct your vision, but it also requires a commitment to proper care and hygiene to keep your eyes healthy. Improper handling and maintenance of contact lenses can lead to discomfort, infections, and even serious eye conditions. Here’s a guide to ensure you’re taking the best care of your contact lenses and, most importantly, your eyes.

The Importance of Hygiene

Maintaining impeccable hygiene is the cornerstone of safe contact lens use. Here are the essential steps to keep your lenses clean and your eyes healthy:

Wash and Dry Your Hands

Before handling your contact lenses, always wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water. Dry them with a lint-free towel to prevent any particles from transferring to the lenses. This reduces the risk of introducing bacteria and other contaminants to your eyes.

Clean and Disinfect Lenses Properly

Use the contact lens solution recommended by your eye care professional to clean and disinfect your lenses. Rub and rinse the lenses with the solution, even if it’s a “no-rub” formula, as this helps remove deposits and microbes effectively.

Avoid Water and Saliva

Never use water or saliva to clean your contact lenses. These can contain harmful microorganisms that can cause eye infections. Always use fresh contact lens solution for cleaning and storing your lenses.

Photo by Nataliya Vaitkevich

Proper Storage Practices

How you store your contact lenses is just as important as how you clean them. Proper storage prevents contamination and keeps your lenses in good condition.

Use a Clean Case

Always store your contact lenses in a clean, dry case. Replace your contact lens case every three months to prevent bacterial buildup. After each use, rinse the case with contact lens solution, not water, and let it air dry.

Fresh Solution Every Time

Never reuse old solutions. Always fill your case with fresh contact lens solution every time you store your lenses. This ensures that your lenses remain clean and disinfected.

Keep the Case Closed

When your lenses are not in use, keep the case securely closed to avoid contamination from dust and other particles. Store the case in a clean, dry area away from direct sunlight.

Photo by Andrea Piacquadio

Adhering to Replacement Schedules

Contact lenses are designed to be replaced on a specific schedule. Following this schedule is crucial for maintaining eye health and comfort.

Daily Disposable Lenses

If you wear daily disposable lenses, discard them after one use. Do not attempt to clean and reuse them. These lenses are designed for single use only and do not have the durability to be worn again.

Bi-weekly and Monthly Lenses

For bi-weekly or monthly lenses, adhere strictly to the replacement schedule. Even if the lenses feel comfortable, over-wearing them can lead to a buildup of deposits and increase the risk of eye infections.

Keep Track of Your Schedule

Mark your calendar or set reminders on your phone to keep track of when to replace your lenses. This helps ensure you never wear your lenses beyond their recommended period.

Additional Tips for Contact Lens Wearers

Follow Your Eye Care Professional’s Advice

Always follow the instructions and recommendations provided by your eye care professional. They know your specific needs and can offer personalized advice.

Be Aware of Symptoms

If you experience redness, pain, excessive tearing, or blurred vision, remove your contact lenses immediately and consult your eye care professional. These could be signs of an infection or other serious eye condition.

Regular Eye Exams

Schedule regular eye exams to ensure your contact lenses are still fitting well and your prescription is up-to-date. Your eye care professional can also check for any potential issues and provide guidance on proper lens care.

Have a Backup Pair of Glasses

Always have a backup pair of glasses on hand. This is essential for times when you can’t wear your contacts, such as during an eye infection or when your lenses are lost or damaged. Glasses provide a reliable alternative to ensure you always have clear vision.

Proper care and hygiene are essential for safe and comfortable contact lens wear. By following these tips on cleaning, storing, and replacing your lenses, you can keep your eyes healthy and enjoy the convenience and clarity that contact lenses provide. Remember, your eye health is paramount, and taking the time to care for your lenses correctly is a small effort for a lifetime of clear vision.