If you’re new to contact lenses, then you have questions. You might be wondering how to put them in and remove them, or what the difference is between hard and soft contact lenses. But one question is often overlooked: how do you prevent eye infections that can be brought on or exacerbated by wearing contact lenses? Here are 5 tips to prevent contact lens-related eye infections.
If you wear contact lenses then you already know the responsibility that comes with these remarkable corrective lenses. If you’re new to contacts then you probably have some questions about the best way to care for your lenses (and your eyes). At Eye Care Solutions, Dr. Vishal Patel will always take the time to answer any questions you may have regarding contact lenses or corrective lenses in general. Below are a few of the best ways to ensure your eyes stay safe from infection when wearing or inserting your contact lenses.
1. Keep contact lenses sterile
This is the most obvious but, unfortunately, most ignored piece of advice when dealing with contact lenses. When storing your contact lenses, make sure the holding capsule is securely tightened all the way. Also, if you’re out of solution, water is not a good substitute.
Often, people fill their capsules with tap water from the bathroom sink instead of solution. This water contains microbes that can contaminate your lenses, and in turn, contaminate the eye.
2. Clean thoroughly after accidents
Accidents happen. If you’re a frequent contact lenses user, you know they can be tricky to handle and very slippery.
Everyone who’s ever worn contact lenses has experienced when they slide off your finger and fall into oblivion. Then, you get down on your hands and knees and start scouring the ground for your rogue lens.
When (and if) you find this little runaway, be sure to soak the lens and douse it with solution. Don’t simply place it back in your eye. The floor — or the countertop or any other surface your contact lens has come in contact with — is full of bacteria.
3. Wash your hands
If you’re going to be handling your contacts, be sure to keep your hands clean. Many people can’t wait to take out their contacts when they first get home from work or going out. Don’t be hasty. Your hands can be full of bacteria, and placing your fingers in and around your eye without properly washing them can result in serious eye infections. Take the time to wash your hands thoroughly before taking out or putting in your contacts.
4. Don’t overuse your contacts
It is always a good idea to give your eyes a break from your contact lenses. If you don’t need to wear them for social events or photos, then pop on your old glasses every once in a while. This will give your contact lenses (and your eyes) a break and some time to breathe.
This practice will also make your lenses last longer before needing replacement. Cutting back on usage will decrease your chances of contracting an eye infection and will give your eyes a chance to reset back to their original, dewey state.
5. Renew your prescription on time
If your contacts are about to pass the 30-day mark, or if they are disposable, you should switch them out. Many people feel the need to stretch their contact lenses’ lifespan way too far. This can be dangerous and can result in eye infections.
While it’s understandable that you want to get your money’s worth with contact lenses, overusing a pair can be dangerous for your eye health. Getting new contacts every few weeks will result in healthier eyes and possibly better results when using your lenses.
If you have any other questions about your new contact lenses or are just interested in contact lenses in general, give us a call at Eye Care Solutions today and schedule a consultation with Dr. Patel. Our friendly staff members want to make sure your contact lens experience is painless and safe. By following these guidelines, you’ll be able to get the most out of your contact lenses, and won’t be putting yourself at risk for future eye infection.
