Wearing contact lenses can be a convenient way to correct your vision without the need for eyeglasses. However, contact lenses require proper care and usage to avoid discomfort, eye infection, and other eye problems.
Here are 30 things to keep in mind when using contact lenses:.
1. Get a Prescription
Before buying contact lenses, always consult with your eye doctor to get a prescription and a proper eye exam. This is essential for ensuring that your contact lenses are suitable for your eyes.
2. Only Purchase from a Reputable Supplier
Buy contact lenses from a reputable supplier, preferably one recommended by your eye doctor. Avoid buying from online retailers that are not authorized to sell contact lenses.
3. Use the Correct Lens Solution
Use only the lens solution recommended by your eye doctor. Different brands have distinct formulas that work well with specific types of contact lenses.
4. Keep Your Lenses Clean
Always clean your lenses before and after use. Clean them with contact lens solution and remove any debris or makeup that may accumulate on them.
5. Don’t Overuse Your Lenses
Limit the usage of contact lenses to the recommended period. Overusing or wearing them for too long will increase your risk of eye infection and other eye problems.
6. Don’t Wear Contact Lenses While Swimming
Do not wear contact lenses while swimming, as chlorine can damage them and increase your risk of developing an eye infection.
7. Don’t Sleep with Your Lenses On
Remove your contact lenses before going to bed and replace them each day. Sleeping with them on can block the flow of oxygen to your eyes and increase the chances of an eye infection.
8. Wash Your Hands First
Always wash your hands with soap and water before handling your contact lenses to avoid introducing bacteria into your eyes.
9. Don’t Share Your Lenses
Never share your contact lenses with anyone, as this can increase the risk of eye infection and transmit eye diseases.
10. Keep Your Eyes Moist
Use eye drops or artificial tears to keep your eyes moist if they feel dry or irritated when wearing contact lenses.
11. Replace Your Case Regularly
Change your contact lens case every 3 months to avoid the accumulation of bacteria that can lead to eye infections.
12. Check for Tears or Damage
Check your contact lenses for tears or damage before wearing them. If you notice any damage, discard them and use a new pair.
13. Don’t Use Expired Lenses
Do not use expired contact lenses, as they can cause discomfort, vision problems, and increase the risk of eye infections.
14. Give Your Eyes a Rest
If your eyes feel dry or irritated, remove your contact lenses and switch to eyeglasses for a while to give your eyes a rest.
15. Keep Your Lenses Dry
Store your contact lenses in a clean and dry place to avoid contamination and mildew that can cause eye infections.
16. Remove Your Lenses When Sick
If you have an eye infection or any other illness that affects your eyes, remove your contact lenses and put on eyeglasses instead. Not doing so can worsen the condition and slow down healing.
17. Get Regular Checkups
Visit your eye doctor for regular checkups to monitor your eye health and ensure that your contact lenses are fitting properly.
18. Don’t Reuse Lens Solution
Throw away the lens solution that you used the day before and use a fresh batch each day. Reusing the same solution can lead to bacterial growth and increase the risk of eye infections.
19. Don’t use Tap Water to Rinse Your Lenses
Never use tap water to rinse your contact lenses, as it can contain harmful bacteria and other contaminants that can cause eye infections.
20. Follow Instructions on the Lens Solution
Read the instructions on your lens solution carefully and follow them accordingly to ensure proper cleaning and disinfecting of your contact lenses.
21. Use a Mirror When Inserting Your Lenses
Use a mirror to help you insert your contact lenses, so you can avoid touching your eyes and reduce the risk of infections.
22. Soften Lenses Before Removing
Soften your contact lenses with some drops of saline solution before removing them to avoid discomfort and tearing.
23. Use Eye Protection
Always wear eye protection when playing sports or engaging in activities that can cause flying debris or impact to your eyes.
24. Take Your Lenses in Your Carry-On
When traveling, keep your contact lenses and lens solution in your carry-on instead of checked luggage. This way, you can keep an eye on your contact lens supplies and avoid contamination.
25. Don’t Reuse Disposable Lenses
Never reuse disposable contact lenses, as they are meant to be used once and discarded. Reusing them can cause eye infections and discomfort.
26. Use Your Prescription as Directed
Take your contact lenses as prescribed by your eye doctor and don’t alter the dosage or frequency without consulting with them first.
27. Keep Your Prescriptions Updated
Get your prescription updated regularly, as your eye prescription may change over time.
28. Check Your Lenses Periodically
Check your contact lenses periodically while you wear them to make sure they are still comfortable and fitting properly.
29. Don’t Mix and Match Brands
Do not mix and match your contact lens brands or solution, as different brands do not always react well together, increasing the chances of eye irritation and infection.
30. Don’t Wear Lenses on Red Eyes
Do not wear contact lenses on red or irritated eyes, as this can worsen the condition and increase the risk of eye infection.