Contact lenses offer a convenient and effective way to correct vision without relying on glasses or undergoing LASIK surgery. However, to keep your eyes healthy and avoid discomfort or infection, it’s crucial to follow a proper care regimen. Regular cleaning, disinfecting, and timely replacement of your lenses are essential practices. Whether you’re new to wearing contacts or a seasoned user, here are some helpful tips to ensure your contact lenses stay safe and your eyes remain healthy.
1. Replace Your Contact Lenses on Schedule
It’s important to replace your contact lenses as recommended by your eye doctor. Wearing lenses past their recommended timeframe can increase the risk of eye irritation and infection. Here’s a general guideline for replacing different types of lenses:
- Daily Disposable Lenses: Replace after every use.
- Bi-Weekly Disposable Lenses: Replace every two weeks.
- Monthly Lenses: Replace every month.
- Traditional (Non-Disposable) Lenses: Replace every 6 to 12 months or as advised by your eye doctor.
Be sure to inspect your lenses for signs of damage or wear and replace them sooner if needed. Prolonged use can cause irritation and may even lead to vision problems.
2. Wash Your Hands Before Handling Lenses
Before inserting or removing your contact lenses, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water. Always dry your hands with a lint-free towel or paper towel to avoid transferring germs to the lenses. This simple step is crucial for preventing infection and irritation.
3. Use the Correct Rinsing Solution
Never rinse your contact lenses with tap water. Tap water contains minerals, impurities, and microbes that can damage lenses and irritate your eyes. Instead, always use a prescribed solution specifically designed for cleaning and storing your lenses. Be sure to follow your eye doctor’s instructions when selecting the right solution for your lenses.
4. Disinfect Your Contact Lenses Regularly
Properly disinfecting your lenses is vital to eliminate germs and pathogens that could cause eye infections. There are several methods to disinfect your lenses:
- Multipurpose Solution (MPS): This is the most commonly used solution. It can rinse and disinfect your lenses. Simply place your lenses in a clean case filled with the solution, let them soak, and then rinse them before use.
- Hydrogen Peroxide: This powerful disinfectant requires extra caution and must be used with a neutralizer to avoid irritation.
Consult your eye doctor for recommendations on the best disinfecting solutions for your contact lenses.
5. Schedule a Contact Lens Exam and Follow-Up
A contact lens exam ensures that you get the right lenses for your vision needs. During the exam, your eye doctor will assess the health of your eyes, measure the curvature of your cornea, and check for any signs of dry eye or irritation.
Follow-up exams are crucial even if you’re not experiencing issues. They allow your eye doctor to monitor your eye health and make any necessary adjustments to your contact lenses or care routine.
6. Take Regular Breaks from Screen Time
If you wear contact lenses and spend long hours in front of a screen, your eyes can become dry and strained. To reduce this discomfort, try to follow the 20-20-20 rule: Every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break and focus on something at least 20 feet away. Additionally, consider wearing computer glasses or taking more frequent breaks to give your eyes a rest.
7. Speak to Your Eye Doctor About Dry Eye Symptoms
If you experience dry eyes while wearing your contact lenses, it could be a sign of an underlying issue. Speak with your eye doctor to determine the cause and explore solutions like lubricating eye drops, new lenses, or specialized treatments.
Request an Eye Exam Today
Whether you’re a new contact lens wearer or have been using them for years, it’s important to stay proactive about your eye health. Regular eye exams will help ensure that your lenses fit properly, and that your eyes stay hydrated and healthy.
Schedule an appointment with our eye doctors at Eyes on Group for a contact lens exam or follow-up today!
Frequently Asked Questions with Our Optometrist
Can I wear contact lenses if I have dry eyes?
Yes, but it’s essential to find the right contact lenses for your needs. Your eye doctor can recommend lenses that help retain moisture and lubricating drops to reduce discomfort.
How often should I get a contact lens exam?
Regular eye exams are essential, and follow-up visits should be scheduled based on your doctor’s recommendations. Even if you’re not experiencing issues, these exams help monitor your eye health.