How to Care for Your Contact Lenses: Tips for Healthy Eyes
How to Care for Your Contact Lenses: Tips for Healthy Eyes
How to Care for Your Contact Lenses: Tips for Healthy Eyes
How to Care for Your Contact Lenses: Tips for Healthy Eyes
Contact lenses provide an excellent alternative to glasses, offering convenience, comfort, and clear vision. However, maintaining healthy eyes while wearing contacts requires diligent care and attention. Poor hygiene or improper use can lead to discomfort, infections, or even more serious conditions like corneal ulcers. At Dr. Richard E. Hults & Associates, we prioritize your eye health and are here to guide you on the best practices for contact lens care.
Always Wash Your Hands Before Handling Lenses
One of the most critical steps in contact lens care is ensuring your hands are clean before touching your lenses. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and warm water, paying special attention to your fingertips. Avoid soaps with added fragrances, oils, or moisturizing ingredients, as they can leave a residue on your skin that may transfer to your lenses. After washing, dry your hands with a lint-free towel to prevent debris from sticking to your lenses.
Clean and Disinfect Your Lenses Daily
Cleaning your lenses is a vital step to remove protein deposits, dirt, and bacteria. Use a multipurpose contact lens solution recommended by your eye doctor, and avoid shortcuts like rinsing with water or saliva—both of which can introduce harmful microorganisms. Follow these steps for effective cleaning:
- Place the lens in your palm and add a few drops of cleaning solution.
- Rub the lens gently with your fingertip for about 10 seconds on each side.
- Rinse the lens thoroughly with the solution before storing it.
Store Lenses in a Clean Case
Proper storage is just as important as cleaning your lenses. Always use a clean lens case and fill it with fresh disinfecting solution every day. Avoid topping off old solution, as it can lose its sterilizing properties and allow bacteria to grow. Replace your lens case every three months—or sooner if it becomes visibly dirty or damaged—to ensure your lenses remain in a sterile environment.
Follow the Replacement Schedule for Your Lenses
Each type of contact lens has a specific lifespan, whether daily, bi-weekly, or monthly. Sticking to the recommended replacement schedule is essential to avoid the buildup of deposits, bacteria, or other contaminants that can irritate your eyes or cause infections. Never attempt to stretch the use of your lenses beyond their intended lifespan—it’s not worth the risk to your eye health.
Never Sleep in Your Contacts
Sleeping in contact lenses that aren’t designed for overnight wear can deprive your eyes of oxygen and increase your risk of developing conditions like corneal infections. Even lenses labeled for extended wear should be removed periodically to give your eyes a break.
Attend Routine Contact Lens Exams
Annual eye exams are essential for contact lens wearers, even if your vision seems fine. During these exams, your doctor can check your eye health, ensure your lenses fit correctly, and make any necessary adjustments. These check-ups are particularly important to monitor any changes in your prescription or overall eye health.
Be Aware of Warning Signs
Pay attention to your eyes for any signs of trouble. Symptoms like redness, itching, excessive tearing, blurred vision, or sensitivity to light may indicate an issue with your lenses or a potential infection. If you notice these symptoms, remove your lenses immediately and contact one of our offices for guidance. Early intervention is key to preventing more serious problems.
Schedule Your Contact Lens Exam Today
Caring for your contact lenses is about more than just maintaining clear vision—it’s about protecting the long-term health of your eyes. By following these tips, you can reduce the risk of irritation or infections and enjoy the comfort and convenience that contact lenses provide.
Schedule a consultation with Dr. Richard E. Hults & Associates to keep your eyes healthy, your vision sharp, and your contact lens experience worry-free! Visit any of our offices in Elyria, Akron, Fairview Park, or Canton, Ohio. Please Call (440) 687-6055, (330) 252-7457, (440) 755-2857, (330) 252-7616 to book an appointment today.
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