The Do’s and Don’ts of Contact Lens Care: Ensuring Safe and Healthy Vision

Contact lenses are an excellent option for many people seeking clear vision without the hassle of glasses. However, improper care can lead to discomfort, infections, or even vision loss. At Volusia Eye Associates, we want to ensure you’re taking the best care of your contact lenses and, in turn, your eyes. Follow these do’s and don’ts for safe and healthy vision while using contacts.
 

Do’s of Contact Lens Care

•        Do Wash Your Hands Before Handling Lenses: Always wash your hands with soap and water before touching your lenses. This helps prevent transferring dirt, oils, and bacteria to your lenses and eyes.

•        Do Clean and Disinfect Your Lenses Properly: Follow your optometrist’s instructions for cleaning and disinfecting your lenses using the recommended solution. Never use water, saliva, or homemade solutions to clean your lenses, as they may contain harmful microorganisms.

•        Do Replace Your Contact Lens Case Regularly: Your contact lens case should be replaced every three months to prevent bacterial buildup. Clean it with fresh contact lens solution (not water) and allow it to air dry after each use.

•        Do Follow the Replacement Schedule: Each type of contact lens has a specific replacement schedule, whether daily, bi-weekly, or monthly. Sticking to this schedule ensures your lenses remain in optimal condition and reduces the risk of eye infections.

•        Do Remove Lenses Before Sleeping: Unless specifically prescribed for overnight wear, remove your lenses before going to sleep. Sleeping in contact lenses can deprive your eyes of oxygen, increasing the risk of infections like keratitis.
 

Don’ts of Contact Lens Care

•        Don’t Wear Lenses Beyond Their Recommended Time: Wearing lenses longer than recommended can lead to irritation, eye strain, or infection. Stick to your optometrist’s guidelines for wearing time and always replace your lenses on schedule.

•        Don’t Use Tap Water on Your Lenses: Tap water may contain bacteria and microorganisms that can adhere to your lenses and cause serious eye infections. Never rinse or store your lenses in water or wear them while swimming or showering.

•        Don’t Reuse Contact Lens Solution: Always use fresh solution each time you store your lenses. Reusing old solution can allow bacteria and debris to accumulate on your lenses, increasing the risk of infections.

•        Don’t Ignore Eye Irritation or Redness: If your eyes feel irritated, itchy, or look red, remove your lenses immediately and give your eyes a break. Prolonged discomfort or irritation can indicate a more serious issue that requires professional attention.

•        Don’t Share Your Contact Lenses: Contact lenses are medical devices that are customized for your eyes. Never share them with anyone, as doing so can spread bacteria and lead to infections or other complications.

•        Don’t Forget to Hydrate Your Eyes: Contact lenses can sometimes cause dryness, especially if you spend a lot of time in front of screens. Use doctor-recommended rewetting drops to keep your eyes moist and comfortable.
 

The Importance of Regular Contact Lens Exams

Regular contact lens exams are essential for maintaining optimal vision and eye health. These exams are different from standard eye exams and focus specifically on how your lenses fit and interact with your eyes. Without these checkups, you risk developing complications that could lead to discomfort, infections, or even permanent damage to your eyesight.
 

During a contact lens exam, your eye doctor assesses several key factors, such as the fit of the lenses on your cornea and how well your eyes are tolerating lens wear. Eyes can change over time, and even a subtle shift in the shape of your cornea can affect how your lenses fit, leading to irritation or dryness. These exams also allow your doctor to evaluate your tear production, which is crucial for ensuring that your lenses remain comfortable and your eyes stay well-lubricated throughout the day.
 

Additionally, contact lens exams are an opportunity to update your prescription. Wearing lenses that are no longer the correct strength can cause eye strain, blurred vision, and headaches. Your optometrist can also recommend new types of lenses or solutions that may be better suited to your evolving needs, such as lenses designed for dry eyes or digital eye strain. By attending regular contact lens exams, you ensure your eyes receive the most appropriate and effective care, promoting long-term eye health and clear vision.
 

Schedule Your Contact Lens Exam with Volusia Eye Associates Today

Proper contact lens care is essential for maintaining clear vision and healthy eyes. By following these simple do’s, don’ts, and maintaining regular eye exams, you can enjoy the benefits of contact lenses while minimizing the risk of complications.
 

If you have any questions about your contact lenses or are experiencing discomfort, schedule a contact lens exam with Volusia Eye Associates. Visit our office in New Smyrna Beach or Edgewater, Florida. Call (386) 427-4143 or (386) 230-0300 to book an appointment today.