Oct 8

How Do I Properly Care for Contact Lenses?

Contact lenses are a fantastic option for vision correction, giving you the freedom to see clearly without the hassle of glasses. But with that convenience comes the responsibility of proper care! Did you know that according to the U.S. Center for Disease Control and Prevention, over 1 million people head to the emergency room each year due to contact lens complications? Our eye care professionals at Trumansburg Optical have seen firsthand the severe effects of neglecting lens hygiene, like infections and long-term damage. That’s why we’re here to share essential tips for keeping your lenses in tip-top shape, highlight common pitfalls to avoid, and help you enjoy the benefits of your contacts safely. Let’s dive in!

Caring for Your Contacts: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Wash Your Hands Thoroughly Before Handling Your Lenses

Before touching your contacts, wash your hands with soap and water and dry them with a lint-free towel. Avoid using soaps that are lotion-based or contain perfumes, as they can leave a film on your lenses, causing discomfort and potential irritation. Don’t forget to remove any makeup residue or debris from your hands before handling your contacts.

2. Clean Your Contacts Regularly

Cleaning is essential for maintaining the clarity of your lenses and removing any buildup of debris, proteins, or bacteria that may form during wear. There are two types of contact lens cleaners: multipurpose solutions (MPS) and hydrogen peroxide solutions. Both are effective, but MPS may be easier to use for beginners as they combine cleaning, rinsing, disinfecting, and storing all in one solution.

3. Replace Your Contacts on Schedule

Whether you have daily disposable lenses or monthly ones, following the schedule recommended by your eye care professional is crucial. Overwearing your contacts can lead to discomfort, dryness, infection, and potential damage to your eyes. Additionally, using lenses beyond their expiration date increases the risk of contamination and decreases their effectiveness.

4. Store Your Contacts Properly

Always store your contacts in a clean contact lens case with fresh solution every time. Avoid reusing solutions, and never mix old and new solutions. Make sure to rinse your case regularly with sterilized or boiled water, let it air dry, and replace it every three months to avoid bacteria buildup.

5. Know When to Replace Your Contact Lens Case

Even with proper cleaning and storage, contact lens cases should be replaced every three months due to the risk of contamination. If you notice any cracks, discoloration, or cloudiness in your case, replace it immediately. Also, consider replacing your case if you have been sick or had an eye infection.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Wearing Your Lenses Too Long: It’s essential to follow the recommended wearing schedule from your eye care professional. Overwearing lenses can lead to oxygen deprivation, causing discomfort and potential long-term damage.
• Sleeping with Contacts In: Even if they’re labeled as “extended wear,” sleeping with contacts is not advised as it blocks oxygen flow and increases the risk of infection. If you accidentally fall asleep with your lenses in, remove them as soon as possible.
• Using Tap Water or Spit to Clean Your Lenses: Although it may seem tempting, using tap water or saliva to clean your contacts is a major no-no. These fluids contain bacteria that can cause infections and harm your eyes.

Lens Care Tips for Traveling and Other Special Situations

• Traveling: When traveling, always pack extra contact lenses, solution, and a travel-sized case. If you’re flying, remember to keep your lens solution in your checked luggage or buy a new one upon arrival.
• Swimming: It’s best to avoid wearing contacts while swimming as water contains bacteria and chemicals that can stick to your lenses and cause infections. If you must wear them, remove and clean them immediately after leaving the pool or ocean.
• Allergies: If you have allergies, consider wearing daily disposable lenses to avoid the buildup of allergens on your lenses. Also, clean your hands and replace lens cases more often during allergy season.

Prioritize Your Eye Health Today

In summary, proper care for your contact lenses is vital for your eye health and the lenses’ lifespan. By following the guidelines in this article, you can reap the benefits of contact lenses while minimizing risks. To ensure your vision remains clear, don’t hesitate to reach out to Trumansburg Optical for personalized advice. Schedule an appointment with our team today—we’re dedicated to supporting your vision needs!