How to Properly Care for Your Contact Lenses
Millions of Americans wear contact lenses, but according to the Centers for Disease Control, up to 90 percent of them do not properly care for their lenses. Serious eye infections can result from improper contact lens care; in the most severe cases, it can even lead to blindness.
Dr. Kriti Bhagat, who completed a residency in cornea and contact lens, urges contact lens wears to follow the recommendations set by their doctors.
“Contact lenses are a medical device and serious complications can occur if you don't handle them as advised by a professional,” she said. “In my opinion, most people wear their lenses past the recommended time that they're supposed to. I like to use a gallon of milk as an example. After the recommended time, you can sniff the milk and take the risk of drinking it, but the one time you get sick, you won't do it again. Why risk it?"
Here are 10 tips for contact lens wearers.
- Wash your hands. Make sure your hands are clean before handling your lenses. Use hot water and soap and ensure they’re dried thoroughly.
- Rub and rinse your contacts with fresh solution. Never use water or saliva to clean off your contacts.
- Store your contacts in new solution. Always fill your contact lens case with fresh solution. Do not reuse old solution or “top off” the solution. Do not store them in water.
- Make sure the tip of your contact lens solution bottle does not touch anything. This could contaminate the bottle.
- Do not sleep in your contacts – unless your doctor says it’s OK. Extended wear contact lenses can be worn overnight, but other types cannot.
- Take out your contacts before showering, swimming or using a hot tub. Water may contain bacteria that can cause infection and even lead to blindness in certain cases.
- Replace your lenses as directed. There are various types of lenses, and wear-time varies. If you’re unsure how long you should wear your contacts, consult your doctor.
- Replace your contact lens case frequently. It’s recommended that you replace your case at least every three months.
- Remove your contacts immediately if you experience anything abnormal. If pain, discomfort, redness or blurred vision occurs after inserting your contacts, call your optometrist immediately.
- Always carry a backup pair of glasses. Make sure you’re prepared with glasses containing your current prescription; you never know when you may have to remove your contacts.
The Eye Institute of Salus University offers specialty contact lens services for patients, including a comprehensive contact lens eye exam and fitting. If you would like to schedule an appointment or have questions about your contact lenses, contact us today.