In recent years there have been many innovative advances made in contact lens material and design, which has made contact lenses the preferred vision correction option for thousands of Australians. However, while contacts can be a great alternative to spectacles, if you don’t take the necessary precautions when wearing them, you could end up with serious eye infections and even long-term eye health problems. If you are new to wearing contacts, or you’re considering switching from glasses, here’s some of the most common mistakes people make when wearing contact lenses and how to avoid them.
Poor Hand Hygiene
One of the most critical aspects of wearing contact lenses is maintaining proper hand hygiene. Before touching your contact lenses, always wash your hands thoroughly with mild soap and water. Failing to do so can transfer dirt, oils, and bacteria to your lenses, increasing the risk of eye irritation and infections. Remember to dry your hands with a lint-free towel to prevent any fibre particles from getting onto your lenses.
Sleeping or Swimming with Contact Lenses
Sleeping or swimming with contact lenses on is a common mistake that can have serious consequences. Unless you wear specialist contact lenses specifically designed for extended wear or Ortho-K lenses, it's essential to remove them before going to sleep. During sleep, your eyes receive less oxygen, and wearing lenses restricts this supply, leading to discomfort, dryness, and potential eye infections. Similarly, swimming with contact lenses exposes your eyes to harmful bacteria, chemicals, and parasites present in the water, also putting you at risk of serious infections or corneal damage.
Wearing Contact Lenses Beyond the Recommended Duration
Contact lenses have a specific duration for which they are designed to be worn. Whether it's daily disposable lenses, two-week lenses, or monthly lenses, it's crucial to follow the recommended wearing schedule. Overusing your lenses can lead to a build-up of protein deposits, debris, and bacteria, resulting in eye irritation, blurred vision, and infection. Always adhere to your eye care professional's instructions regarding lens replacement and disposal.
Neglecting Cleaning and Storage
Proper cleaning and storage of your contact lenses are vital to maintain their clarity, comfort, and longevity. Rinse your lenses with the cleaning solution recommended by your optometrist immediately after removing them from your eyes to remove any debris or protein build-up. Avoid using tap water or saliva as these can contain harmful microorganisms. When storing your lenses, ensure that your lens case is clean and filled with fresh solution. Replacing your lens case regularly, with each new bottle of solution , will help to prevent bacterial contamination.
Ignoring Discomfort or Eye Irritation
Ignoring signs of discomfort or eye irritation is a mistake that should never be made when wearing contact lenses. If you experience redness, itching, burning, excessive tearing, or blurry vision, remove your lenses immediately and consult your eye care professional. These symptoms could indicate an eye infection, corneal abrasion, or an allergic reaction. Prompt attention and treatment can help prevent further complications and keep your eyes healthy.
Convenient, comfortable, and unobtrusive, contact lenses can be a fantastic alternative to glasses, providing clear vision and freedom of movement. However, it's crucial to be aware of and avoid common mistakes that can compromise your eye health and comfort. By following proper lens wear and care guidelines, you can enjoy a safe, and rewarding experience with contact lenses.
Want to learn more about contact lenses? Book in today for an eye examination. Fremantle, Rockingham, Kardinya, Woodvale, and Floreat are all home to an Abernethy Owens practice. We are here to help with all aspects of Optometry including diagnostic imaging, revolutionary dry eye disease treatments and myopia control. Book online or call 1800 411 744.