Dos and Don’ts of Contact Lenses

Contact lenses are thin, curved lenses placed directly on the surface of the eye to correct vision or for cosmetic purposes. They are typically made from soft, flexible plastic materials that allow oxygen to pass through to the cornea, which is essential for eye health. Wearing contacts can be a wonderful experience so long as lenses are properly cared for. Here are some dos and don'ts when it comes to wearing and caring for contact lenses:

Dos:

1. Wash Your Hands: Always wash your hands with soap and water before handling your contact lenses. Dry them with a lint-free towel before touching your lenses.
2. Follow Your Eye Care Professional's Instructions: Use the contact lenses as prescribed by your eye doctor. Follow their advice on how long to wear them each day and how often to replace them.
3. Clean and Disinfect Properly: Use the appropriate cleaning and disinfecting solutions recommended by your eye care professional. Rub and rinse your lenses with solution each time you remove them, even if they are labeled as "no rub."
4. Replace Your Lenses on Schedule: Replace your lenses as often as recommended, whether they are daily, bi-weekly, monthly, or extended wear. Using lenses longer than recommended can lead to eye irritation and complications.
5. Store Your Lenses Properly: Store your lenses in a clean case filled with fresh disinfecting solution. Replace your contact lens case every 3 months or as recommended by your eye care professional.
6. Attend Regular Check-ups: Visit your eye care professional for regular check-ups to ensure your lenses are fitting properly and your eyes are healthy.
7. Handle with Care: Handle your lenses gently to avoid tearing or damaging them. Avoid using sharp objects around your lenses.

Don'ts:

1. Sleep in Your Lenses (Unless approved): Unless your eye care professional has prescribed lenses specifically for extended wear, do not sleep in your lenses. Sleeping in lenses not intended for overnight wear can increase the risk of eye infections.
2. Use Tap Water or Saliva: Never use tap water or saliva to rinse or store your lenses. These can introduce harmful microorganisms to your eyes and cause infections.
3. Wear Lenses Beyond Their Expiry: Do not wear lenses beyond their recommended replacement schedule. Overused lenses can accumulate deposits and bacteria, leading to discomfort and potentially serious eye problems.
4. Share Lenses: Do not share your contact lenses with others, as this can spread bacteria, viruses, and other contaminants.
5. Use Expired Solutions: Do not use expired or improperly stored cleaning and disinfecting solutions. Always check the expiration dates and follow storage instructions provided by the manufacturer.
6. Use Lenses If Irritated: If your eyes are red, irritated, or painful, do not continue to wear your lenses. Remove them and consult your eye care professional for advice.

Following these dos and don'ts can help ensure that you have a safe and comfortable experience with your contact lenses while minimizing the risk of complications or infections.