Contact lenses have become a popular choice for vision correction, but proper care and hygiene are essential to reduce the risk of infections. In this article, we will discuss the best practices for wearing contact lenses to maintain good eye health and prevent contact lens-related infections.
1. Wash Your Hands
Before handling your contact lenses, always wash your hands with soap and water and dry them with a lint-free towel. This helps prevent transferring any bacteria or impurities from your hands to your lenses and eyes.
2. Clean Your Contact Lenses and Case
Follow the cleaning and disinfecting schedule recommended by your eye care professional. Use the appropriate cleaning solution to keep your contact lenses free from debris, protein buildup, and microorganisms. Remember to replace your contact lens case regularly to prevent bacterial contamination.
3. Avoid Water Exposure
Remove your contact lenses before showering, swimming, or participating in water activities. Water, including tap water and swimming pool water, may contain microorganisms that can lead to serious eye infections.
4. Follow the Wearing Schedule
Do not overwear your contact lenses. Adhere to the wearing schedule recommended by your eye care professional. Overwearing lenses can lead to decreased oxygen supply to the cornea, making your eyes more susceptible to infections.
5. Replace Your Contact Lenses as Recommended
Whether you wear daily disposable lenses or extended wear lenses, it's crucial to replace them according to the prescribed schedule. Old lenses can accumulate deposits and bacteria, increasing the risk of eye infections.
6. Avoid Sleeping in Your Contact Lenses
Unless prescribed for extended wear, do not sleep in your contact lenses. Sleeping in lenses can restrict oxygen flow to the eye and create a breeding ground for bacteria, increasing the risk of infections.
7. Be Cautious with Makeup
Insert your contact lenses before applying makeup to prevent debris or chemicals from getting trapped underneath the lens. Additionally, avoid using expired or contaminated eye makeup products.
8. Attend Regular Eye Exams
Regular eye exams are essential for monitoring the health of your eyes and ensuring that your contact lenses fit properly. Your eye care professional can detect early signs of infections or other eye issues during these exams.
Conclusion
By following these best practices for wearing contact lenses, you can significantly reduce the risk of infections and maintain good eye health. Proper hygiene and care play a vital role in ensuring a safe and comfortable contact lens wearing experience.