Contact lenses are a convenient and effective way to correct vision, but proper care is essential to ensure eye health and comfort. Whether you’re new to wearing contacts or looking to refresh your lens care routine, here are some important do’s and don’ts to keep in mind:
Do’s
1. Wash Your Hands Thoroughly
Before handling your contact lenses, wash your hands with soap and water. Dry them with a lint-free towel to avoid transferring dirt and bacteria to your lenses.
2. Clean and Disinfect Regularly
Follow the cleaning and disinfecting regimen recommended by your eye care professional. Use the appropriate contact lens solution to clean, rinse, and disinfect your lenses to remove debris and microorganisms.
3. Replace Your Contact Lens Case Regularly
Replace your contact lens case every 3 months or as recommended by your eye care provider. Rinse and air-dry your case daily to prevent bacterial growth.
4. Remove Your Lenses Before Sleeping
Avoid wearing your contact lenses while sleeping, unless prescribed for extended wear. Sleeping in lenses increases the risk of eye infections and discomfort.
5. Attend Regular Eye Exams
Schedule routine eye exams with your optometrist to monitor your eye health and ensure your contact lenses are fitting properly.
Don’ts
1. Use Tap Water on Lenses
Avoid rinsing or storing your lenses in tap water, as it may contain microorganisms that can lead to eye infections.
2. Wear Lenses Beyond Recommended Replacement Schedule
Follow the prescribed replacement schedule for your contact lenses (daily, bi-weekly, or monthly). Overwearing lenses beyond their recommended lifespan can lead to discomfort and potential eye health issues.
3. Use Expired Contact Lens Solutions
Check the expiration date on your contact lens solution and discard it if expired. Expired solutions may not effectively clean and disinfect your lenses.
4. Swap Lenses with Others
Do not share contact lenses with others, as it can spread bacteria and increase the risk of eye infections.
5. Ignore Discomfort or Symptoms
If you experience eye redness, irritation, or discomfort while wearing contact lenses, remove them immediately and consult your eye care professional.
Conclusion
Proper care and maintenance of your contact lenses are crucial for preserving eye health and ensuring comfortable vision correction. By following these do’s and don’ts, you can enjoy the benefits of clear and comfortable vision with contact lenses safely.