Contact lenses can be life-changing, offering comfort and clear vision. While contact lenses are a fantastic alternative to eyeglasses, wearing them requires some responsible usage. There are some dos and don'ts you should adhere to while wearing contact lenses. To know more about them, we spoke to Dr Ajay Sharma, Ophthalmologist and Chief Medical Director, EyeQ.
Dos While Wearing Contact Lenses
Prioritise Hygiene
"Responsible use of contact lenses begins with good hygiene. To keep your eyes safe and healthy, wash your hands well with soap and water before you touch your lenses. This simple step helps prevent dirt and harmful germs from getting into your eyes and causing problems," said Dr Sharma.
Follow Replacement Schedule
Following the schedule your eye doctor gives you for replacing your lenses is also important. "Wearing them for too long can lead to discomfort, reduce the oxygen your cornea needs (the front part of your eye), and make you more likely to get eye infections," suggested Dr Sharma.
Also Read: Expert Debunks Myths About Contact Lenses
Use Approved Cleaning Solutions
"Equally essential is the choice of solutions for lens cleaning and disinfection. Rely solely on solutions approved by your eye care specialist to ensure compatibility with your lenses and safeguard your ocular health," highlighted Dr Sharma.
Maintain Clean Storage Cases
Dr Sharma said that your contact lens storage cases also deserve regular attention. Keep them clean, replace them as needed, and always allow them to air dry between uses. This helps prevent the buildup of harmful microorganisms that can affect your lenses and, subsequently, your eyes.
Don'ts While Wearing Contact Lenses
Avoid Swimming with Lenses
"Whether in a pool, lake, or ocean, avoid swimming with your lenses on. This is because water can introduce harmful microorganisms to your eyes, leading to infections and discomfort," said Dr Sharma.
Don't Sleep with Lenses In
"Sleeping with your lenses should be avoided whenever possible, as it restricts the much-needed oxygen supply to your cornea. This can potentially lead to irritation, redness, and even infection," said Dr Sharma. "However, this does not apply to extended-wear lenses, which are designed for overnight use, but it's essential to follow your eye care professional's recommendations for these lenses," he mentioned.
Also Read: Did You Sleep With Your Contact Lenses On? Doctor Shares Possible Risks
Eye Allergies and Eye Drops
"If you have any kind of allergy in the eye, discontinue the use of contact lenses until the allergy is under control," he cautioned. "Additionally, some eye drops are not suitable for use over contact lenses, so consult your eye care specialist for guidance on appropriate eye drops," he added.
Eye Makeup
"Avoid applying eye makeup after inserting your lenses, as makeup particles can get trapped beneath the lenses, causing irritation. You can apply makeup before putting in your lenses to prevent this issue," stated Dr Sharma.
Conclusion
By following the dos and don'ts of wearing contact lenses, you can enjoy the benefits of this vision correction option while keeping your eye health a top priority. Remember that regular check-ups with your eye care specialist are essential to ensure that your lenses continue to meet your vision needs and that your eyes remain healthy.
[Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. Consult your healthcare provider to get a thorough diagnosis and treatment as per your health needs.]
Image Credits: freepik
