If you wear contact lenses, taking proper care of them is key to maintaining healthy eye care habits and ensuring that your lenses last as long as possible. Always use the recommended contact lens solution and never use water or saliva to clean your lenses. Clean and disinfect your lenses by rubbing them with your fingers and rinsing with a quality solution before soaking them overnight. These tips will help you enjoy clear vision and a comfortable experience every day.
What are Contact Lenses?
Eye Contact lenses are thin lenses placed directly on the surface of the eyes. They are primarily used to correct vision problems like nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. These lenses improve clear vision without the need for traditional eyeglasses.
Types of Contact Lenses
There are several types of contact lenses:
- Soft Contact Lenses: Made of flexible, water-absorbing materials. They are comfortable for most people and can be used for daily, weekly, or monthly wear.
- Rigid Gas Permeable (RGP) Lenses: Made of durable plastic that allows oxygen to pass through. They provide sharp vision and are often recommended for complex prescriptions.
- Disposable Lenses: These are designed for short-term use, often daily or weekly. They offer convenience and reduce the risk of infections.
How Do Contact Lenses Work?
Contact lenses float on the tear film that covers your cornea. They correct your vision by focusing light directly onto the retina, allowing for clear vision. The specific prescription determines the strength and curvature of the lens needed to correct your eye problems.
Importance of Proper Care
Taking care of your contact lenses is essential to prevent eye infections and other problems. Always clean your lenses with the right contact lens solutions and never use water or saliva. This helps in maintaining the cleanliness and safety of your lenses.
The Basics of Contact Lens Cleaning
Cleaning your contact lenses properly is crucial for maintaining eye health. Follow these basic steps to ensure your lenses are clean and safe to use:
- Wash Your Hands: Always wash your hands with soap and water. Dry them with a lint-free towel before handling your lenses.
- Use Proper Solution: Use a multipurpose solution for rinsing, disinfecting, and storing your lenses. Never use water or saliva to clean your lenses.
- Rub and Rinse: Even if you use a “no rub” solution, gently rub your lenses with clean fingers. Then, rinse them with the solution for at least 10 seconds.
- Clean Your Lens Case: Rinse your lens case with the solution and let it air dry. Replace the case every three months to prevent contamination.
Important Tips:
- Avoid Water: Do not rinse or store lenses in water, whether it’s tap or sterile.
- Follow Wear Time: Wear your lenses only as long as recommended by your eye care professional.
- Regular Checkups: Schedule regular eye exams to ensure your lenses are fitting correctly and your eyes are healthy.
By following these cleaning steps, you can keep your contact lenses comfortable and safe to use daily.
How to Store Contact Lenses
Storing your contact lenses properly ensures their longevity and your eye health. Always use a contact lens case specifically designed for lens storage. Avoid using old or damaged cases. Change your case every few weeks to prevent germ buildup. Fill the lens case with fresh storage solution each time. Do not top off the old solution. Always use the recommended solution given by your eye doctor.
Avoid these Common Contact Lens Mistakes
Avoid Sleeping with Lenses On
Wearing contact lenses while you sleep can reduce the amount of oxygen your eyes get. This can lead to infections and irritation. Always remove your lenses before going to bed unless your doctor has approved extended wear lenses.
Stick to Your Wear Schedule
Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for how long to wear your lenses. Whether they’re daily, bi-weekly, or monthly lenses, sticking to the recommended schedule helps maintain eye health and comfort.
Regular Eye Exams
Make sure to have regular eye exams. An updated prescription ensures you have the right lenses to correct your vision and avoid unnecessary eye strain or discomfort.
Dispose of Damaged Lenses
If you notice scratches or tears in your lenses, throw them away immediately. Damaged lenses can cause irritation and may not provide the proper vision correction.
When to Get an Eye Exam
You should get an eye exam every year or two. Regular exams are important for keeping your eyes healthy and catching any issues early.
Signs You Need an Exam:
- Blurry Vision: If things appear fuzzy, it’s time for a check-up.
- Headaches: Frequent headaches can be a sign of eye strain.
- Eye Pain: Any discomfort in your eyes should be investigated.
Your eye health is important. Don’t wait for problems to arise before you see your optometrist. Regular eye exams can help you maintain clear and healthy vision.
Update Your Contact Lens Prescription
Over time, your vision needs may change. It’s important to have an updated contact lens prescription to avoid discomfort and poor vision. Once you get your updated prescription, click here to shop optometrist-recommended contact lens brands online.
