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Bad contact lens habit to leave behind

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Bad contact lens habit to leave behind


Introduction:

Contact lenses are a convenient and popular alternative to traditional eyeglasses, providing vision correction without the hassle of frames. However, improper use and care of contact lenses can lead to a range of eye problems, including infections and corneal damage. It's essential to educate ourselves about the potential risks and adopt good habits to maintain healthy eyes while wearing contact lenses. In this blog post, we will discuss some common bad contact lens habits that need to be left behind for the sake of our eye health.



1. Sleeping with Contact Lenses On:

One of the most prevalent bad habits is sleeping with contact lenses on. While some lenses are designed for extended wear, the majority are not. When we sleep with lenses, we deprive our eyes of oxygen, which can lead to corneal swelling and increase the risk of infections. It is crucial to follow the recommended wearing schedule provided by your eye care professional and remove your lenses before going to bed.

2. Wearing Lenses Beyond Their Expiry Date:

Contact lenses have an expiration date for a reason. Over time, the lens material can break down, leading to decreased oxygen permeability and increased risk of eye irritation and infections. Always check the expiration date on your lens packaging and replace them promptly, even if they still appear to be in good condition.

3. Neglecting Proper Cleaning and Disinfection:

Proper lens hygiene is essential to avoid infections and maintain clear vision. Many contact lens wearers fall into the bad habit of neglecting proper cleaning and disinfection routines. Remember to wash your hands thoroughly before handling your lenses, use a recommended cleaning solution to clean and rinse them, and store them in a clean case with fresh solution. Regularly replacing the lens case is also crucial to prevent bacterial growth.

4. Using Tap Water to Rinse Lenses:

Using tap water to clean or rinse contact lenses may seem harmless, but it poses serious risks to your eye health. Tap water can contain microorganisms, such as Acanthamoeba, which can cause severe eye infections. Always use sterile saline or contact lens solution recommended by your optometrist for cleaning and rinsing your lenses.

5. Sharing Contact Lenses or Lens Accessories:

Sharing contact lenses or lens accessories, such as cases or solution, is a significant no-no. Each person's eyes have unique characteristics, and sharing lenses increases the risk of spreading bacteria, viruses, or other contaminants. Additionally, using someone else's lenses may lead to discomfort or poor vision due to the mismatch in prescriptions.

6. Ignoring Irritation or Discomfort:

Ignoring irritation or discomfort caused by contact lenses can have serious consequences. If you experience redness, itching, dryness, or any other persistent discomfort, remove your lenses immediately and consult your eye care professional. Continuing to wear lenses when your eyes are irritated can exacerbate the problem and lead to more severe conditions.

Conclusion:

To maintain healthy eyes while wearing contact lenses, it's crucial to leave behind bad habits. Avoid sleeping with lenses on, using expired lenses, neglecting cleaning routines, using tap water, sharing lenses, and ignoring discomfort. By adopting responsible habits and following your optometrist's instructions, you can reduce the risk of eye infections and ensure optimal eye health. Take care of your eyes, and prioritize good contact lens hygiene for clear vision and long-term well-being.


Credit:

Image used - South China Morning Post

Comments

  1. SB Optical20 March 2024 at 16:47

    This blog post provides essential insights into maintaining healthy eyes while wearing contact lenses by highlighting common bad habits to avoid. Thank you for sharing these valuable tips.

    ReplyDelete

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