The Dos and Don’ts of Wearing Contact Lenses
Contact lenses have become a popular alternative to glasses for those with vision problems. They provide a sense of freedom and convenience, allowing people to engage in various activities without the hassle of carrying around bulky frames. However, wearing contact lenses comes with a set of responsibilities that must be adhered to in order to maintain eye health and prevent complications. Here are some dos and don’ts of wearing contact lenses.
DO: Wash Your Hands Thoroughly
One of the most important things you can do when handling contact lenses is to wash your hands thoroughly before and after inserting or removing them. This simple step helps to prevent the transfer of dirt, bacteria, or other harmful substances onto the lenses, which could lead to eye infections.
DO: Follow Your Eye Doctor’s Instructions
Your eye doctor will provide you with specific instructions on how to properly care for and wear your contact lenses. It is crucial to follow these instructions to the letter, as they are tailored to your individual eye health needs. This includes the frequency of lens replacement, proper cleaning techniques, and duration of wearing time.
DO: Remove Your Lenses Before Bed
Sleeping with contact lenses in increases the risk of eye infections and other vision problems. It prevents oxygen from reaching the cornea and traps debris between the lens and the eye, making it more likely for bacteria to grow. Always remove your lenses and clean them before going to bed.
DO: Use Only Recommended Solutions
Contact lens solutions are specifically designed to clean and disinfect your lenses. However, not all solutions are compatible with every type of lens. Always use the solution recommended by your eye care professional and avoid improvising or using expired solutions. Using the wrong solution can cause discomfort, irritation, or even damage your lenses.
DO: Replace Your Lenses According to the Recommended Schedule
Many contact lenses come in different replacement schedules, such as daily, bi-weekly, or monthly. It is important to adhere to these schedules, as prolonged wear can lead to complications. Over time, proteins, lipids, and deposits can build up on the lenses, affecting vision and eye health. Replace your lenses as instructed to ensure optimal visual clarity and minimize the risk of infections.
DON’T: Wear Lenses Longer Than Prescribed
Using lenses longer than the recommended wearing time increases the risk of eye infections, dryness, and corneal ulcers. It can also cause discomfort and reduce the effectiveness of your prescription. Never ignore the prescribed duration or push the limits of your lenses. It’s better to be safe and replace them as directed.
DON’T: Use Water to Clean Your Lenses
Water, whether tap or distilled, is not suitable for cleaning contact lenses. It can contain impurities, microbes, and various chemicals that can damage your lenses or lead to infections. Stick to the recommended solutions and avoid exposing your lenses to any form of water.
DON’T: Share Your Lenses With Others
Contact lenses are personalized to fit each individual’s eye shape and prescription. Sharing lenses with others can lead to eye infections or transfer microbes that may not be harmful to one person but can be harmful to another. Furthermore, it is unhygienic and can lead to complications. Always use your own lenses and discourage others from sharing theirs.
By following these dos and don’ts of wearing contact lenses, you can ensure a safe and comfortable experience while maintaining your eye health. Remember to consult your eye care professional should you have any concerns or questions regarding wearing and caring for your contact lenses.