During the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, it is essential to prioritize our eye health and take appropriate steps to minimize any potential risks.

The American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) has provided recommendations specifically addressing contact lens wearers. This article aims to highlight these recommendations and offer valuable insights on maintaining healthy eyes while wearing contact lenses.

Understanding the Coronavirus and Eye Health

The coronavirus, specifically the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), primarily spreads through respiratory droplets.

It is important to note that while the virus can infect your eyes, it is primarily transmitted through the nose and mouth. However, it is still crucial to take preventive measures to reduce the risk of exposure to the virus.

Proper Hygiene Practices for Contact Lens Wearers

As a contact lens wearer, it is essential to follow strict hygiene practices to minimize any potential risks. Here are the recommended measures:.

1. Wash Your Hands Thoroughly

Prior to handling your contact lenses, ensure to wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. This step helps eliminate any potential pathogens present on your hands.

2. Avoid Touching Your Face and Eyes

Touching your face, including your eyes, increases the risk of introducing the virus to the eye area. Be cautious and avoid such contact as much as possible.

3. Disinfect Your Contact Lenses

Proper disinfection of your contact lenses is crucial to eliminate any potential pathogens that might be residing on the lenses. Follow the recommended disinfection guidelines provided by your eye care professional or contact lens manufacturer.

Also, ensure to replace your contact lens case regularly.

4. Minimize Contact Lens Wear

Consider reducing your contact lens wear time and switching to glasses whenever possible. This can help minimize the frequency of touching your eyes and reduce the risk of potential contamination.

5. Regularly Clean and Replace Eyewear

If you wear glasses, it is important to clean them regularly with soap and water. Avoid using potentially harmful substances, such as household cleaners or aerosol sprays, which can damage the lenses.

Additionally, consider replacing your glasses if they are damaged or broken, as they can harbor pathogens.

Benefits of Temporary Eyeglass Wear

While contact lenses provide convenience and clearer vision for many individuals, there are several benefits to wearing eyeglasses temporarily during the pandemic:.

1. Reduced Eye Touching

Wearing glasses can act as a physical barrier, reminding you to refrain from touching your eyes. This helps reduce the risk of potential virus transmission.

2. Enhanced Eye Protection

Glasses provide an additional layer of protection, shielding your eyes from respiratory droplets that might be in the air. Though not completely foolproof, they offer significant added protection.

3. Easy to Clean and Maintain

Eyeglasses are relatively easy to clean with mild soap and water, reducing the risk of potential contamination compared to contact lenses, which require more frequent handling and disinfection.

4. Minimal Eye Irritation

With increased hand hygiene and reduced contact lens wear, many individuals have reported a decrease in eye irritation and dryness. This can be attributed to the reduced exposure of the eyes to potential allergens and irritants.

Consulting Your Eye Care Professional

It is crucial to consult your eye care professional for personalized recommendations and guidance during the ongoing pandemic. They can provide specific advice based on your eye health, contact lens type, and overall well-being.

Virtual consultations may be available and can be a safe alternative to in-person visits.

Conclusion

Protecting your eye health during the COVID-19 pandemic is crucial, particularly for contact lens wearers.

By practicing proper hygiene, minimizing contact lens wear, and considering temporary eyeglass use, you can significantly reduce the risk of potential virus transmission and maintain healthy eyes. Remember to consult your eye care professional for personalized recommendations and stay updated with the latest guidelines provided by reputable organizations like the AAO.